Style Rider aims to document the world’s most stylish motorcycle riders, be they riders of classic, custom or cafe racer steeds. Focused on the intersection of motorcycle culture with individual style, here we speak to London-based heritage menswear enthusiast Illya Sobtchak about rugged fabrics in classic styles.
Name: Illya Sobtchak
Residence: London, UK
Occupation: IT SysAdmin and owner of Hatters Anonymous
Instagram: @illcutz
Today’s ride: Yamaha XSR 700
Describe your style: Americana/Amerikaji. I’m generally inspired by styles from the early to mid-20th Century Americana as reinterpreted or reproduced by Japan. This means is a mix of Biker Culture, Cowboy and Military garments with modern twists and design tweaks; and what I enjoy is how well these styles can be interchanged with each other.
Favourite items: Mister Freedom Ranch Blouse, Warehouse Jeans ELMC Tanker Boots and Rolex Explorer.
Next purchase: Twerd MFG jeans; a one-man denim brand from Russia.
Best local ride: Around Hampstead Heath in London.
Best distance ride: London to Brighton and along the coast.
Tip for stylish motorcycle riding: Always go for heavy, rugged fabrics in classic styles.
Why do you like riding? The feeling of freedom, being both in the zone and at one with the machine; and the escape.
Photo credit: all photos were supplied by Illya Sobtchak.
