It is well-known Prince William has a passion for motorbikes, so today’s visit to The Midlands was a perfect fit.
The Duke of Cambridge visited Triumph Motorcycles and MIRA Technology Park to mark world-class British vehicular manufacture, research and development.
At Triumph Motorcycles the future father of three toured the factory and walked the assembly line, meeting technicians and apprentices working on-site.
William then kitted up and took a quick ride on a 1200cc Triumph Tiger.
The Duke test-drives the latest Triumph Tiger 1200. pic.twitter.com/Igul53lui4
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 20, 2018
After the tour, William officially opened the Triumph Motorcycles Factory Visitor Experience. The engaging experience lets one view an extensive collection of Triumphs past and modern achievements in motorcycle design, engineering, and racing.
After the test-drive, HRH unveils a commemorative fuel tank to mark his visit to @UKTriumph and officially open the visitor experience centre. pic.twitter.com/0r58TwKbm5
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 20, 2018
In 2017, Triumph Motorcycles celebrated 115 years of motorcycle manufacturing. The company builds around 67,000 iconic bikes per year and are sold in 57 countries across the world.
Following his Triumph visit, HRH paid a visit to MIRA Technology Park to see how HORIBA MIRA provides pioneering engineering, research and test services to the transport industry.
The Duke checked out a variety of vehicles and equipment developed at the Technology Park, which provides extensive Research and Development services utilising 38 separate facilities.
William also had the opportunity to experience new technology developed on the site, including driverless vehicles, as well as the high speed and wet weather handling test tracks.
Next The Duke visits @MIRAEngineering which provides pioneering engineering, research and test services. pic.twitter.com/pSQ4jvb3zv
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 20, 2018
As he wrapped up his day in The Midlands, Prince William attended a reception to meet apprentices and PhD students that work for the company.
The MIRA Academy has been providing vital support to young people and apprentices since it launched in 2013. HORIBA MIRA employs 18 apprentices through its MIRA academy programme, which grants salaried employment for each apprentice from day one, with a structured programme of both academic and on-the-job training.
One can imagine after seeing some of the Triumph motorcycles, William was itching to bring one home. With a third child on the way, it is doubtful The Duke would bring home a motorcycle anytime soon.
In 2008, Prince William and Prince Harry took part in motorcycle rally across Africa to raise money for a variety of charities including Harry’s charity Sentebale.
