Guy Willison, often affectionately called “Skid,” is a name that resonates strongly within the world of motorcycles and British television. Known for his extraordinary craftsmanship, deep-rooted passion for engineering, and his warm on-screen presence, he has carved out a legacy that blends technical brilliance with charismatic storytelling.
From his beginnings in London as a young mechanic fascinated by engines, to becoming a co-founder of bespoke motorcycle companies and a television personality, Guy Willison has lived a life fueled by dedication and resilience. His journey offers inspiration not only to motorcycle enthusiasts but also to those who admire perseverance and creativity in business and art.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Guy Willison (“Skid”) |
| Date of Birth | October 1962 |
| Birthplace | London, United Kingdom |
| Age | 62 years (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Motorcycle Builder, TV Personality |
| Education | Studied Motorcycle Engineering |
| Known For | 5Four Motorcycles, TV Shows with Henry Cole |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1M – $5M |
| Marital Status | Private (not publicly disclosed) |
Early Life and Passion for Motorcycles
Guy Willison’s love for motorcycles began in his childhood when he started experimenting with engines. At the young age of eleven, he dismantled and studied the workings of a small Honda engine, sparking a fascination that would define his entire career. By the time he was a teenager, he was already building motorcycles from spare parts, showing his natural talent for engineering and design.
His early years in London provided both inspiration and challenges. Riding motorcycles around the city gave him a sense of freedom, but it also developed his understanding of practicality and performance. These formative experiences shaped his belief that a motorcycle should not only look stylish but also deliver reliability and power on the road.
Education and Technical Foundation
To refine his skills, Willison pursued formal education in motorcycle engineering. He studied at Merton Technical College, where he gained professional insights into design, mechanics, and performance tuning. This academic training provided him with the technical foundation to merge creativity with precision in his later builds.
The combination of practical street experience and classroom learning made him a versatile builder. His technical knowledge allowed him to experiment with designs while ensuring that every machine he crafted met high performance and safety standards. This rare blend of skills distinguished him from many others in the industry.
Start of Career as a Rider and Builder
In his early career, Willison worked as a despatch rider in London. Covering thousands of miles across the busy city streets, he experienced firsthand the importance of durability and efficiency in motorcycles. His call sign during those years was “5Four,” a name that would later inspire his business venture.
These years also gave him the discipline and resilience to handle the demands of motorcycle building. Riding long hours in challenging conditions provided insights into the improvements riders needed in real-world machines. This practical background laid the groundwork for his future as a respected motorcycle craftsman.
Career Breakthrough in Motorcycle Building
Guy Willison’s big break came when he partnered with television presenter Henry Cole. Together, they co-founded Gladstone Motorcycles, a brand that created limited-edition bespoke motorcycles. Their builds, such as the Gladstone No. 1 and Gladstone Red Beard, gained national attention for blending traditional British design with modern engineering.
One of his most notable achievements was the creation of the Norton Commando 961 Street, a limited run of just fifty motorcycles. This special edition sold out in under a week, proving the demand for his craftsmanship and eye for detail. This success further established his name as a master motorcycle builder with a flair for exclusivity.
Business Ventures and 5Four Motorcycles
After years of experience, Willison launched his own company, 5Four Motorcycles, named after his old rider call sign. The brand’s motto, “For the few, not the many,” perfectly describes its mission to produce hand-built, limited-edition motorcycles. Each creation is individually numbered, giving owners a sense of uniqueness and pride.
Collaborations with Honda UK further showcased his talent. He reimagined models like the CB1100RS and CB1000R, adding custom touches that transformed them into collector’s items. These collaborations highlighted his ability to merge corporate reliability with artistic individuality, strengthening his reputation in the industry.
Television Career and Media Presence
Guy Willison’s television career began when he appeared alongside Henry Cole on The Motorbike Show. His natural charm and technical knowledge made him a fan favorite. He later featured in other shows such as Shed and Buried and Find It, Fix It, Flog It, where he combined entertainment with educational insights into motorcycle building.
On-screen, he is admired for his approachable personality and genuine love for motorcycles. Viewers often praise the balance between his humor and expertise, making him not just a craftsman but also a storyteller. His television work introduced motorcycles to a wider audience, creating appreciation even among those unfamiliar with the craft.
Net Worth, Salary, and Source of Income
Guy Willison’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million as of 2025. His primary sources of income include custom motorcycle builds, television appearances, and brand collaborations. While exact salary details are not publicly available, his exclusive motorcycles and television presence contribute significantly to his earnings.
Beyond finances, his work brings recognition and respect within the global motorcycle community. Although not driven purely by profit, his passion for building and storytelling has resulted in both artistic fulfillment and financial stability.
Latest News and Current Projects
As of 2025, Guy Willison continues to build motorcycles under the 5Four brand and appears on television. One of the latest developments is the launch of a new streaming platform for The Motorbike Show, which promises exclusive behind-the-scenes content. This move shows his continued relevance in both media and motorcycle culture.
His ongoing projects suggest that he remains committed to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Legacy and Impact
Guy Willison’s legacy lies in his unique ability to transform motorcycles into works of art while preserving their functionality. He has proven that engineering and creativity can coexist, creating machines that embody both performance and elegance.
While his journey has included challenges, including speculation about his health and personal life, his professional achievements overshadow the negatives. His contribution to motorcycle culture is undeniable, and his influence will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
Conclusion
Guy Willison’s story is one of passion, resilience, and craftsmanship. From a young boy dismantling engines in London to a respected motorcycle builder and television personality, his journey inspires both bikers and dreamers alike.
With ventures like 5Four Motorcycles, iconic builds like the Norton Commando 961, and television appearances that bring his craft to a wide audience, he has earned his place as a true legend in the motorcycle community. His legacy reminds us that dedication and creativity can turn a lifelong passion into a lasting mark on history.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Guy Willison?
Guy Willison, also known as “Skid,” is a British motorcycle builder, television personality, and founder of 5Four Motorcycles.
Q2: What is Guy Willison’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million as of 2025.
Q3: What is he best known for?
He is best known for his custom motorcycle builds, his company 5Four Motorcycles, and his television appearances on shows with Henry Cole.
Q4: Is Guy Willison married?
He keeps his personal life private, and there is no public confirmation of his marital status.
Q5: What was his first major success?
His first major breakthrough was co-founding Gladstone Motorcycles and creating the Gladstone No. 1.
Q6: What is 5Four Motorcycles?
It is his custom motorcycle company specializing in limited-edition, hand-built motorcycles.
Q7: Which TV shows has he appeared on?
He has appeared on The Motorbike Show, Shed and Buried, and Find It, Fix It, Flog It.
Q8: How old is Guy Willison?
He was born in October 1962, making him 62 years old in 2025.
Q9: What is his nationality?
He is British.
Q10: What is his legacy?
His legacy is that of a master craftsman who blends traditional motorcycle heritage with modern innovation, inspiring both enthusiasts and fellow builders
