Meet the French H.O.G. member taking riding challenges in his stride

Since joining H.O.G.^® in 2018, Gilles Gonin has embraced group rides, organised epic journeys and undertaken the Iron Butt Association’s toughest challenges

Words by David Sexton

Gilles Gonin’s love for motorcycles began early. By the age of 12, he was already passionate about motorsports and spent his teenage years practising motocross. His first road bike came in 1978 when he earned his driver’s licence, but it wasn’t until years later that Harley-Davidson became the brand that captured his heart, with his first Harley^® being a Night Rod^® Special. Today, he rides a Road King^® Special and a Road Glide^® CVO^™, machines that reflect his love for long-distance challenges and the brand’s legacy. “I chose Harley-Davidson for its heritage and because I finally had the means to make a dream come true,” he says.

Gilles joined the Harley Owners Group^® in 2018 and immediately embraced the philosophy of group riding and sharing ideas for new adventures. Membership opened doors to unforgettable experiences and friendships, including a solidarity run in Ukraine. He is now an active member of the Bourgogne Chapter and Lyon Chapter, both in France, balancing his involvement by organising, supervising and contributing as an officer and road captain. Among his favourite memories is the European Bike Week® ride he organised in 2025 at Faak am See in Austria. “I believe I left behind memories and brought immeasurable happiness to the participants.”

Through friends, Gilles discovered the 500 Miles challenges, which he says is “for those riders crazy enough to take on fatigue, bad weather and language barriers without the help of GPS!” Participants use a paper roadbook filled with cryptic notes and ride 500 miles (805km) non-stop. “No GPS, just grit, caffeine and the sound of your own exhaust,” laughs Gilles. “At each checkpoint, riders get their passage stamped and the next section of the route. The reward is a small pin – your medal of honour.”

For Gilles, these challenges are pure adrenaline and mental stimulation. “You leave your mind at the starting line and disconnect. It’s pure joy,” he says.

Gilles has completed the grand slam – all six European 500 Miles challenges in the same year – but his proudest achievement came in 2023 when he completed 3,000 miles (4,800km) in less than 54 hours without sleep, earning the SaddleSore 3,000 Gold award and a place in the Iron Butt Association Hall of Fame. His future plans include Route 66, plus more 500 Miles adventures, of course! For Gilles, riding is about discovery and pushing limits. “As long as it’s a discovery, then it’s happiness,” he says. His advice for anyone considering a riding challenge for the first time? Bring a Guardian Bell and count on support and friendship.