Style Rider focuses on the intersection of motorcycle culture and individual style. Here we talk with helmet importer Craig Darlow about his collection of limited edition motorcycles and custom helmets to match.
Name: Craig Darlow
Residence: Melbourne, Australia
Occupation: Director, Grand Union Garage
Instagram: @granduniongarage @rubyhelmetsaustralia @guanghelmetsaustralia
Today’s rides: This photoshoot is a little different as we see a selection of motorcycles with matching Ruby and Guang helmets. The interview is at the end.
2016 Ducati Monster 1200R with Guang X-Guang helmet and iridium lens
2015 Norton Commando 961 with Ruby Open Face Harajuku helmet
2006 Ducati Paul Smart 1000 with Guang Full Face helmet
2020 BMW RnineT Option 719 with Ruby Full Face Opt 719 helmet
2018 Vespa GTS300 Sei Giorni with Vespa Sei Giorni Jet Helmet
2017 Ducati XdiavelS with Guang full face red carbon/Nardo grey helmet
Describe your style: Casual relaxed with a hint of sophistication and difference. I love bold colours and styling, particularly helmets, gloves and jackets. They are so important and speak volumes in terms of your look and styling.
Favourite items: My Ruby helmets, Grand Union Garage Fonda gloves and Clutch Moto denim. I also have a few Guang Helmets and they are doing some very cool designs, customisation and colour-ways. Ruby and Guang helmets are so luxurious and comfortable.
Next purchase: I think I would love to add a Triumph to my collection. I love the look of the Bonneville. They make a beautiful bike.
Best local ride: Love the ride out to Healesville and Warburton via the Black Spur.
Best distance ride: Great Ocean Road from Geelong to Apollo Bay, returning inland via Lavers Hill and Gellibrand is magnificent. There is something special about riding along a beach road.
Tip for stylish motorcycling: Be bold and create your own style. Motorcycling is about individual styling and being comfortable with how your bike looks and how you look with it.
Tip for best looking safe riding gear: @granduniongarage @rubyhelmetsaustralia @clutchmoto @guanghelmetsaustralia for the best and boutique brands. Safety and comfort.
Next motorcycle trip: Heading to Canberra via Merimbula in September to support the Police Wall 2 Wall ride recognising Police officers in Australia that have lost their lives in the course of doing their duty.
Why do you like riding? I love the freedom a motorcycle provides. Whether its riding the trails or road, it allows me the opportunity to clear my mind, relax and enjoy the moment. Each time I get on one of my bikes I instantly smile, relax and feel at ease. It might not be heaven but I am hoping it is very close!
