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Prince William’s love of motorcycles remains a stubborn hobby, despite Kate Middleton’s repeated efforts to persuade him to give it up-a scenario many married couples might find familiar, according to royal biographer Christopher Andersen.
In a recent conversation with Fox News Digital, Andersen, author of Kate!, highlighted that while many spouses struggle to curb each other’s passions-be it smoking, drinking, or extreme sports-William’s case carries unique stakes. “As a future head of state, any injury or accident could have consequences far beyond the family,” Andersen noted, underscoring the added pressure on the prince.
Andersen also pointed out the ironic element of William’s motorcycle enthusiasm, given that his mother, Princess Diana, tragically died in a car accident. Yet, the Prince of Wales has always found riding to offer a rare sense of anonymity and camaraderie.
“He enjoys pulling up alongside cars at traffic lights, looking over and knowing the drivers have no idea who he is,” Andersen explained. “For someone constantly in the spotlight, it’s a refreshing escape.”
Kate Middleton’s concern over the hobby is well documented. Andersen recalls how the princess once begged William to be more cautious after watching him speed through the countryside, with even Queen Elizabeth expressing worry.
The late monarch reportedly confided to a motorcyclist, “Prince William rides them and it frightens me.” Despite these appeals, William remains committed, balancing his thrill-seeking with an understanding of the risks.
“My father is concerned, but he doesn’t want me wrapped in cotton wool,” William has said. “You might as well live if you’re going to live.”
Royal expert Hilary Fordwich echoed these sentiments, noting that while Kate holds considerable influence, she has not been able to deter William from his passion. “Like many couples, William listens to his wife’s concerns, but fully giving up the hobby is a step too far,” she said. Fordwich also added that compared to some royal predecessors, William’s motorcycle riding is a relatively harmless outlet.
William’s motorcycle interest dates back to his youth. In 2006, he acquired powerful bikes capable of speeds exceeding 160 mph, including a Yamaha R1 and a Honda CBR 1100XX Blackbird.
At one point, after becoming a father and during his time as an air ambulance pilot-a high-risk profession in itself-Kate seemed to gain some ground in convincing him to pause riding. Nevertheless, the allure endures.
Looking ahead, Andersen believes Kate is unlikely to let their children-Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis-take up motorcycling anytime soon, although she might be more lenient with sports like polo, long embraced by the royal family.
Both William and Kate share adventurous hobbies: Kate enjoys cold water swimming, Padel, and scuba diving, and William often joins her, despite finding some of her pursuits “a little bonkers.” Interestingly, William reportedly finds family board game competitions a bit too intense and often takes a break outside.
Recently, William visited Norfolk Blood Bikes, a charity supporting the UK’s National Health Service by transporting critical medical supplies. Reflecting on his enduring fondness for motorcycles, he remarked, “I love bikes.
I do still ride now and again, quietly.” Notably, he donated a bike to the charity last year, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to both his passion and public service.
In sum, while Kate Middleton’s concerns are understandable, Prince William’s motorcycle hobby remains a vivid part of his life-an emblem of personal freedom amid royal duties.