Picture two larger-than-life Brits roaring down the road on motorcycles, cooking up a storm wherever they go—meet the Hairy Bikers, Si King and Dave Myers! This dynamic duo transformed British cooking television with their infectious humor, heartfelt friendship, and a passion for hearty meals. From their first TV hit in 2004 to bestselling cookbooks, they’ve made gourmet cooking accessible and fun, proving food is about joy, adventure, and connection.
What started as a shared love for bikes and bites turned into a cultural phenomenon. With over 30 TV series and 27 cookbooks, the Hairy Bikers blended culinary exploration with travelogue, taking viewers from Britain’s cozy pubs to the vibrant markets of Asia. Their down-to-earth charm and cheeky banter made them national treasures, inspiring millions to fire up their stoves.
The Making of the Hairy Bikers
Born in Barrow-in-Furness in 1957, Dave Myers faced early challenges, becoming a carer for his mother at 12, which sparked his love for cooking. A fine art degree and TV makeup artist gigs led him to meet Si King in 1995 on the set of The Gambling Man. Si, born in County Durham in 1966, grew up inspired by his motorcycle-dispatch-rider father. After stints in construction and film, Si’s passion for food and bikes bonded him with Dave. Their friendship, forged over roast pork and Thai curry during a Scottish trip, laid the foundation for their culinary empire.
The Hairy Bikers’ Unforgettable Adventures
The Hairy Bikers’ first show, The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook (2004–2008), was a game-changer, blending global travel, local cuisines, and motorcycle journeys. From Vietnam’s bustling streets to Mexico’s sunny coasts, Si and Dave cooked with locals, sharing stories with warmth and wit. The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of Britain (2009) celebrated regional dishes, while Hairy Bikers: Route 66 (2019) explored America’s iconic highway through soul food and music.
Their style? Unpretentious, hearty, and full of heart. Whether whipping up Lancashire hotpot or lemon meringue pie, they championed home cooking with triple-tested recipes. Their 27 cookbooks, like The Hairy Bikers’ British Classics and The Hairy Dieters, reflect their versatility, tackling comfort food and healthy eating. Their humor—think playful jabs and impromptu dances—made every episode a joyride, while their focus on culture and history added depth to their culinary tales.
In 2012, Hairy Dieters: How to Love Food and Lose Weight showcased their personal transformation, losing over two stone each while keeping flavor first. Their authenticity shone through, making healthy cooking relatable. Even after Dave’s cancer diagnosis in 2022, their spirit endured in shows like The Hairy Bikers Go Local (2023), proving their resilience and bond.
Why the Hairy Bikers Matter
The Hairy Bikers redefined British food TV by making it inclusive and adventurous. They broke stereotypes, showing that burly blokes on bikes could be culinary wizards, inspiring a generation to cook with confidence. Their advocacy for local producers and ‘meals on wheels’ services highlighted their big hearts. Despite Dave’s passing in 2024, Si carries their legacy forward, ensuring their message of friendship and food endures.
Their impact transcends recipes. They taught us that cooking is storytelling, a way to connect across cultures and generations. Their shows, books, and even their ‘Big Night Out’ theatre tour (2010) radiated joy, making them cultural icons who proved food and friendship can change lives.
- Born: Dave Myers (September 8, 1957–February 2024); Si King (October 20, 1966)
- Key Works: The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook, The Hairy Bikers’ British Classics, Hairy Dieters
- Fun Fact: They rode BMW R1200GS and Triumph Rocket III bikes!
Ready to join the ride? Grab The Hairy Bikers’ British Classics and cook up some hearty magic with Si and Dave’s timeless recipes!