An interview with Podcast Host & JR Ambassador Stefano Cosentino | Johnny Reb Herald #010
For the latest edition of the Johnny Reb Herald, it was our pleasure to interview Stefano Cosentino, a former bike mechanic, professional musician, trainee watchmarker & podcast host of his own show ‘Bikes Burgers Beers’. To check out the podcast, click here!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m Stefano Cosentino from Bikes Burgers Beers, a former bike mechanic, professional musician and trainee watchmaker, podcast host.
When did you start riding motorcycles and what made you start riding?
I started riding in 1995 while still in high school. I always wanted a bike. I saw a Suzuki RGV 250 fly passed me. I had to get a piece of that.
What made you start your Youtube channel and podcast?
It was part fun, part necessity. During Covid lockdown I lost all income, and thus my career. With a lot spare time, I decided that with all the international content out there I wanted to create something local to celebrate our own motorcyclists.
What is your favourite thing about podcasting?
Meeting all the new and amazing motorcyclists around Australia that have stories to tell.
What did you do before you put together Bikes burgers beers?
I was a professional musician.
What bike do you ride now? What bike is your favourite to ride?
I ride a Harley Davidson Sportster and Royal Enfield Himalayan. I really love them both for what they are. However the Himalayan gets ridden more purely for convenience.
What was your first ever bike?
It was Kawasaki GPX 250. Comfy, big tank, reliable.
Where is your favourite place to ride?
I love riding out into the west of NSW. There’s such beautiful country side out towards Coolah, Dunedoo. Etc.
Tell us your favourite riding story or fondest riding memory?
It was one of the first rides I did that was furthest from home. I rode to Wauchope. On my way home, I went through Bulahdelah where it was a huge storm. Riding through fog, a petrol station appeared where I stopped to take a break. The owner came out, filled up my tank and offered me a hot breakfast. I took my soaked gear off and entered the warm restaurant where I was given hot coffee, a delicious and hardy breakfast. I eventually left, reluctantly. Made it home, but still remember that country hospitality.
Who do you enjoy riding with?
With my close friends and usually on my own. It allows me to stop and take photos, chill, or keep riding.
Name one dream place you’d love to ride that you haven’t been yet?
Stelvio Pass.
Why do you ride motorcycles?
I love feeling the climate changes riding through different weather, terrain and surroundings. I love the journey getting to destinations and the delicious beer that awaits me.
What do you wear when riding? When did you first hear of Johnny Reb?
I always wear all the gear, every time. Helmet, gloves, jacket, pants, boots. I heard about Johnny Reb decades ago. While the gear style lends itself to cruiser riders, I loved some of the boots. I have always been a fan of the gear, and love seeing the the range increase.
Stefano wears the Glenbrook Protective Jacket, Hume Protective Jeans & Olga Leather Gloves.
If you could go on a road trip with any 3 people in the world, (dead or alive) who would they be and why?
Charlie Boorman, Ewan McGregor, Ross Noble.
Charlie and Ewan for the adventure, the support and the brotherhood. Ross for the laughs.
Name your favourite band or song.
Iron Maiden - Seventh Son of a Seventh Son.
Name your favourite place to stop and eat on a ride.
I love the little cafe in Tarana NSW called Mamma Snows. The ride there is beautiful via different roads. Choose your adventure. The coffee and food is delicious.