Unfortunately for Richard Hammond, whom I respect, whenever I see his name come up in my reporting, I can only think of one phrase: “Hammond, you idiot!”
The charming satire on his fellow presenter came from none other than Jeremy Clarkson in the OG Top Gear days, which was honestly the pinnacle of automotive journalism. This trio, which also included James May, was the beginning and end goal of many of my colleagues. I am also included. And now, many years (decades) later, not only am I doing the same things they are doing, but we are often talking about the same things.
For example, Mr. Richard Hammond recently rode the all-new Norton Manx R, the first new motorcycle to come from the long-discontinued Norton Motorcycles. Some? rideapart’s Robbie Bacon did the same not too long ago. And while I trust Robbie completely – never tell him I say that – it’s always interesting to hear what others say about the same machine.
Besides, it’s always interesting to hear what Hammond says about a machine, especially one like this.
For those who don’t know—have you been living under a rock?—Hammond is a bit of a biker. Well, he is much more than that, he is a true motorcycle enthusiast, he has a large collection of new and classic motorcycles, and has been racing motorcycles for decades. In fact, Ozzy used to have a bit on Top Gear for Hammond to show off some crazy challenge on a motorbike while Jeremy and James chastised their friend for “being stupid”.
And Hammond has continued that tradition of talking about his two-wheel passion during launches and presentations on The Grand Tour and DriveTribe’s YouTube channel. The latest concern concerns Norton’s revival, and its first motorcycle, the Manx R Superbike, with Hammond’s first words echoing our own, with the bike being “gorgeous”.
The test ride for Hammond and the Manx R is, obviously, Wales, which could go one way or the other in terms of weather. But where else would you do this kind of testing? Well, the South of France comes to mind, but it wouldn’t be in keeping with Norton’s history, its intention to revive a classic British Superbike story, or the ethos of the bike. I wouldn’t mind it myself, but I understand what Hammond wants here.
As far as his views are concerned, I’ll keep quiet and let you see, because he has some of the opinions, thoughts and ideas you’d expect from a presenter.
