The Bike Shed Motorcycles moves premises in Colchester

Global Motorcycle Training has changed lane by switching from its former site in King Edward Quay, Colchester, to Cowdray Avenue.

The business combines the sale of all things motorbike related with the provision of a top drawer training scheme and specialist mechanics.

It marks a rapid rise to the top of the game since Ellen Hicks’ dad, Gary, took over almost ten years ago.

Kitted out - inside the new shop (Image: Contribution)

Since then, he has combined Global Motorcycle Training with The Bike Shed and hasn’t looked back since.

Ellen, who is key in the smooth running of the shop, said: “We outgrew the old shop. It’s scary but also a good thing.

“Dad’s favourite line is that we’ve slowly become a motorbike shop, as well as a training scheme.

“People walk into the shop and dad still doesn’t realise why they’re here. Things have grown pretty quickly.

Collection - motorbikes inside the shop (Image: Contribution)

“When he first took over it was originally just Global Motorcycle Training, helping with licences, but then came along the motorbikes and then we had to have a workshop.”

The family first called a building behind Rollerworld, in Eastgates, Colchester, home, when they took the reins.

A move to the Hythe soon followed but Ellen explained they continued to look for somewhere more prominent in the city.

“Initially we wouldn’t get many walk-ins when near Rollerworld as it’s so far out the way that no one knew we were there,” added Ellen.

Open for business - the shop's reception area (Image: Contribution)

“Even in the Hythe people didn’t know we were there. It was our home for five years and still people say they weren’t aware of us.

“Now we are on a main road so hopefully things will get busier. Customers are already saying they came in because they saw us when driving past.”

Championed by mechanics Rob and Ryan, the business is continuing to go from strength to strength, and there are no plans to stop.

Ellen added: “I’m excited to welcome more people and to grow. We want to provide a place for people to come to and enjoy.”