“I’m Silvan, I grew up in a rural part of Canton Thurgau in Switzerland, and I’m 22 years old. I spend most of my free time riding my motorcycle or helping out on my father’s farm. In the winter I like to ski in the Alps.”

1. In one word, why do you ride a motorcycle?
Freedom.

2. What was it about Brixton Motorcycles that got your attention?
The retro design and affordable price. When my brother started riding motorcycles, I wanted to join in. I had no idea how many brands existed, but the 125cc bikes from Brixton excited me with their looks and easy handling. I searched for a retro bike that suits me and ordered a Cromwell from Stormrider Motorcycles, Bordeaux. This was the moment my new adventure began.

3. What made you change from your Cromwell to the Crossfire?
I liked my little Cromwell, but I wanted more power under my saddle. So, I was excited when the first prototype of the Crossfire 500 was shown at EICMA in Milan. I said to my dealer I would directly buy one when the first ones arrive.

4. What Brixton are you riding? What’s your favourite thing about it? 
I have the Crossfire 500 X in Backstage Black. My favourite thing is the iconic look of the fuel tank. I also like the engine performance and the Arrow exhaust sound. Not forgetting the well-designed speedometer and LED lights.

5. How long have you been riding for?
As mentioned, my brother started riding in March 2019 and so did I. The funny thing is some of our friends also started riding and joined in. I started with a Cromwell 125 and in 2021 I waited patiently for the release of the Crossfire.

6. What’s the craziest ride you’ve been on? Where do you plan on going next?
Definitely riding on the Passo Stelvio. It has many 180° curves, 48 in total! You can find it in South Tyrol, Italy. Next summer, my brother and I plan to explore the French Alps.

7. The furthest from home you’ve ever been?
The Dolomites in Italy, a mountain range in the southern Alps. There are many beautiful roads with great panoramic views. Definitely worth a tour for anyone with a bike in this region. Some of the rocks are made of limestone, that’s why you’ll find such characteristic shapes.

8. The most beautiful place you’ve been on your Brixton? 
Not easy to answer, but I’d say Klausen Pass in Canton Uri and Glarus. I love the landscape here. You enter into a forest and slowly ascend to a large valley that is around 1,300 m above sea level, with long, steep hills on either side. The peak is 1,948 m above sea level. On the other side is Canton Uri, where the narrow road goes along a cliff. Once you get to Altdorf, the capital of Uri, you’ll find the beautiful lake Lucerne. The total length is 63 km.

9. Would you rather ride along ocean roads or mountain passes? 
I love mountains and the landscape of Switzerland, so I prefer mountain passes over ocean roads.

10. The best place to run out of gas?
Somewhere between mountains in a secluded place.

Photos: Silvan

Silvan’s motorcycle: Brixton Crossfire 500 X

Follow Silvan on Instagram: @slb00_

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