Motorcycling has lost one of its quiet greats. Robert Bensley, a man who not only lived motorcycling but dedicated his life to helping others enjoy it more safely and confidently, passed away in the summer after complications from an aggressive form of cancer.
Despite knowing his prognosis for some time, Rob continued to do what he loved until almost the very end. He was still organising, running and riding at BMW Club road-bike-only trackdays, even riding at one just six weeks before his death. Days earlier, he rode to Cadwell Park to watch racing, and just three days before he passed, he rode to a local ex-racers’ catch-up.
A life shaped by two wheels
Like so many, Rob’s love of motorcycles began early. A pivotal moment came when he moved from British bikes to BMWs. In 1982, he attended a BMW Club trackday at Donington Park with his friend Stan — Stan on an R90S, Rob on an R100RS. At the time, BMW club racing was thriving, and Rob soon found himself drawn into competition, particularly Battle of the Twins, racing BMW boxers wherever he was allowed.
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His enthusiasm was legendary — including the time he famously ran out of fuel on the last lap, later captured in the BMW Club magazine. As his son Richie recalled, forgetting to check fuel levels was not uncommon…
Shaping safer trackdays
Rob went on to become Sporting Register Secretary for the BMW Club and, in 2009, took over running the club’s trackdays. His vision was clear: create events for riders who might never normally take to a circuit, using road bikes only, with safety and enjoyment at the heart of everything.
Rob deliberately booked far more instructors than typical trackdays, strictly excluded race bikes, and ensured there were no hot-heads — all so newcomers, nervous riders and curious road riders could enjoy the track in a supportive environment.
His track briefings were famously long, not out of ego, but because he genuinely believed people needed to understand why things mattered. He wanted riders to enjoy themselves, learn properly, and improve — not simply chase lap times.
A unique atmosphere
Those who attended Rob’s trackdays often remember the informal evening gatherings beforehand, particularly at Snetterton and Cadwell Park, where track walks became equal parts education and entertainment. Rob was never quiet, never shy of debate — especially on riding techniques — though seasoned instructors learned not to provoke him on the subject of braking mid-corner.
Despite the effort and cost involved in running these events, Rob expanded them to include car days as well. Many riders remark that they have never experienced a friendlier atmosphere at a circuit.
Flashy he was not. Rob often slept in the paddock in an ancient van on an even more ancient mattress, and rode in his unmistakable 1980s Gaerne racing boots with metal studs — chosen simply because they were cheap.
Nürburgring devotion
Another deep passion was the Nürburgring. With a close group of friends, Rob would regularly make trips to Germany for a few days of laps, counting legendary BMW racer Helmut Dähne among his friends. He respected the circuit deeply, understanding that its 13 miles demanded patience and humility.
A legacy that lives on
Rob Bensley was not famous, did not seek recognition, and never chased reward. He simply gave back to motorcycling what it had given him — offering knowledge, encouragement and generosity to anyone who needed it.
Many reading this may never have met him, but almost everyone knows someone like Rob: a person whose passion for riding enriches those around them. Motorcycling is better for people like him — and poorer when they are gone.
As those who knew him best say, his infectious enthusiasm for riding, right to the end, will never be forgotten.
Originally published: Classic Bike Guide, December 2025 issue. Initial Words: Matt Hull. To subscribe to Classic Bike Guide please click here https://www.classicmagazines.co.uk/classic-bike-guide
