The RBLR1000 is an annual, long-distance motorcycle endurance challenge that serves as a cornerstone event for the Royal British Legion Riders (RBLR) branch. Since its inception in 2009, this event has brought together passionate motorcyclists to raise vital funds for the Poppy Appeal.

The Challenge

At its core, the RBLR1000 is a “SaddleSore” endurance ride. The primary objective for participants is to ride 1,000 miles within 24 hours in a safe, controlled manner. For many, this is more than just a test of stamina; it is a way to prove one’s capability as a long-distance rider. The event is organized in partnership with the Iron Butt Association (IBA) UK.

Riders who successfully complete the 1,000-mile route within the 24-hour limit earn official IBA certification and gain lifetime membership to the association—a highly regarded achievement in the motorcycling community. Participants choose from pre-verified routes that typically start and finish at Squires Café Bar near Leeds. These routes are designed to be completed mostly in daylight, often timed near the Summer Solstice.

The event attracts Riders Branch members and non-member entrants from all over the UK and Europe. This year (2026), Riders Branch members from North Wales continued the tradition of entering a team for the event. The team consisted of Phil Jones, Gareth Moses, Lee Wilkinson, Jason Bassett, and Neil Bambridge.

You might think that this is the type of event that once you have done it, you have done it! But no, many riders come back to ride the RBLR1000 year after year.

• Phil Jones: Riding his Triumph Tiger Rally Explorer, completed the ride for the 12th time and finished in 19 hours and 5 minutes
• Gareth Moses: Riding his Triumph Tiger Rally Explorer, completed the ride for the 10th time and finished in 18 hours and 14 minutes.
• Lee Wilkinson: Riding his Honda NC750X, completed the ride for his 1st time and finished in 19 hours and 30 minutes.
• Jason Bassett: Riding his Yamaha Tracer 700, completed the ride for his second time and finished in 18 hours and 14 minutes.
• Neil Bambridge: Riding his Triumph Tiger 1200, completed the ride for his 1st time and finished in 19 hours and 50 minutes.

The Route

The Welsh team all chose to ride the popular northern routes, taking them through the Scottish Highlands, passing Loch Lomond and Loch Ness, as well as the famous Commando Memorial located near Spean Bridge and the Cairngorms National Park. The routes arguably take in some of the most rugged and beautiful mountain roads in the UK.

Beyond the personal challenge, the RBLR1000 is a massive fundraising effort. Each year, the event attracts over 100 riders, collectively raising tens of thousands of pounds for the Poppy Appeal. The Welsh RBLR1000 team not only all completed the challenge they also between them raised a whopping £1300 plus £282.50 in gift aid (£1582.50).

The camaraderie developed during the weekend—often centered around the start/finish line at Squires—creates a unique atmosphere of shared purpose.

Get Involved

You do not need to be an RBLR member or a veteran to participate. The ride is open to anyone up for the challenge, and there are even 500-mile routes available for those who prefer a less gruelling distance. To find out more browse to: https://rblr.org.uk/main/rblr1000/