North Shore's Shea Ili started playing for the Breakers at guard last year
What are you riding?
A 2015 Harley-Davidson Street 500. I just got it in April. I am trying to get a new Harley, I was just starting on this one. I got my licence the day before I got this bike. And I got my licence first time.
Why a Harley rather than another bike?
I wanted a sports bike but my wife said if you’re going to get a bike, it’s got to be a Harley.
Do you take passengers on your bike?
I’m on a learner’s and you can only take someone on a full.
Any tips for young, new bike riders?
I don’t know much about it myself yet. I just ask my team-mate Corey Webster, who also rides a Harley, and he gives me advice.
How often do you ride your Harley?
I try to ride it every day if it’s sunny. I have ridden in the rain twice: you get soaked.
Riding gear?
I wear biker jeans, they have the special reinforcing, and they cost about $300. They are pretty expensive but it’s worth it. And I have a helmet, of course.
Any disadvantages of riding a bike in Auckland?
Just the weather. It’s pretty good when there is a lot of traffic, as you go through the middle.
How often do you clean it?
Every couple of weeks. It’s hard to get into the little spots. That is the annoying thing about cleaning it.
Any close calls?
I had a close call on my scooter but not on my bike. I was riding on the inside of a truck and I thought the truck was going straight and I was turning. As I went to go, the truck started to turn, I had to pull back, It was pretty close.
Where do you park it? And are you worried about getting scratches on it?
Yeah, I am scared people won’t see it as you usually park between cars.
Your dream bike?
Probably just a Sportster. A Harley-Davidson Iron 883. It’s not too much faster than this one but it has a nice look to it.
Is it harder to learn to drive or to ride?
Driving would be easier.
Who taught you ride?
I learned on the way, really. I was also taught by one of my friends on a quad bike.
Do you also drive?
Yes, I have a 2008 Subaru Impreza.
Most memorable road trip?
Riding from Helensville to Orewa and back out west on the back roads.
If you could go on a bike trip with any sports great anywhere?
LeBron James, around Hawaii on a pair of Harley Davidsons.
Favourite racing driver?
Greg Murphy, he is a Kiwi racing legend, and I was lucky enough to meet him at V8 Supercars, at Pukekohe last year.
Do you have any big road trips planned for the summer?
I will probably ride up north, maybe Kaitaia.
Should more people ride bikes?
Definitely in Auckland. I think it is a good way to get around and for the congestion. It would be better for everyone and it’s fun.
How would you solve Auckland’s traffic issues?
Get everyone on bikes.
● The Breakers’ next game is against Perth Wildcats at 7pm on Sunday, January 22, at Vector Arena.