Hairy Bikers

Hairy Bikers refers to a British cooking duo consisting of Si King and Dave Myers. They are best known for their television shows on the BBC where they explore various cultures and cuisines on their motorcycles. The Hairy Bikers have become beloved figures in the UK, combining their love for motorbikes with their passion for cooking and food exploration.

Background

Si King and Dave Myers met in the early 1990s on the set of a TV drama. King was working as a location manager and Myers as a makeup artist. They discovered a shared interest in motorcycles and cooking, which eventually led to the formation of the Hairy Bikers. Their down-to-earth personalities, humor, and genuine friendship have endeared them to audiences around the world.

Television Career

The Hairy Bikers' television career began with their first series, The Hairy Bikers' Cookbook, which aired in 2004. The series was a combination of travelogue and cooking show, with King and Myers riding their motorcycles to various locations, exploring local food cultures, and preparing dishes that represented the regions they visited. This successful format has been the basis for many of their subsequent series, including The Hairy Bikers' Food Tour of Britain, The Hairy Bikers' Bakeation, and The Hairy Bikers' Asian Adventure.

Their shows often focus on promoting home cooking, the use of local ingredients, and the preservation of traditional recipes. They have also participated in several charity and health-related series, such as The Hairy Dieters: How to Love Food and Lose Weight, where they explored healthier eating options without sacrificing flavor.

Books

In addition to their television series, the Hairy Bikers have authored several cookbooks that complement their TV shows. These books include a wide range of recipes, from British classics to international dishes, and reflect their journey and experiences. Some of their popular titles include The Hairy Bikers' Cookbook, The Hairy Bikers' Food Tour of Britain, and The Hairy Dieters: How to Love Food and Lose Weight.

Impact and Legacy

The Hairy Bikers have made a significant impact on the way cooking shows are presented, blending travel, culture, and cooking in an entertaining and informative way. They have also contributed to the popularization of motorcycle touring as a means of exploring culinary landscapes. Their approachable style and emphasis on the joy of cooking and eating have inspired many to take up cooking as a hobby and to explore the culinary traditions of their own and other cultures.

See Also

• Celebrity Chef
• Cooking Show
• British Cuisine
• Motorcycle Touring