Keith Whiting
Tour Guide
My passion for motorcycling began at 14, when a neighbour gave me a BSA Bantam. I spent countless hours riding it around local fields, dodging farmers! From the age of 16, I’ve always had a bike on the road.
I bought a Yamaha FJR1300 in 2007 and, after a few too many beers at a party, somehow found I’d agreed to ride through 11 countries with friends on my first European tour—to Dubrovnik. No routes, no hotels, and no back-up planned—only the crossing to France! We got into a few scrapes, had a great time, and made it home safely with some amazing memories.
I have three children, all of whom have spent hours on the back of my bikes. Both of my boys have toured with me over the years, and one of the most memorable moments was taking one of them around the Nürburgring… don’t tell Mum!
Alongside my touring experience, I also have riding experience from my career with Essex Police. I was trained as a police motorcyclist and rode operational motorcycles in challenging and demanding conditions, alongside some of the most skilful riders. For a few years, I was responsible for operational motorcycles and the BikeSafe programme.
I served as a police officer for 30 years, retiring in 2014. My career was mainly focused on road death investigations and firearms. Since retiring, I’ve run a business in the IP and brand protection industry.
Motorcycling has been a constant in my life, and it’s brought a lot to me—and to the people around me. Richard Evans introduced me to Magellan and said I would love touring with them… and he was right! I started with Magellan in 2025, visiting Spain/Portugal and Croatia—both outstanding trips. The tours are so well planned, the hotels and restaurants are excellent, and the people I’ve toured with have been genuinely interesting. Group riding is fun, but it’s also great to see people find their own way and then meet up again at the next coffee stop!
I now have plenty of free time, and Magellan gives me the chance to take more trips with like-minded people—especially when, unfortunately, many of my biking friends are still working and not so lucky!
I look forward to meeting you on a Magellan tour and riding together on some unforgettable roads.
Check out Keith's three favourite trips