Where have I been

G'day guys, hopefully this clears things up. Cheers... Mark
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[@ToriMoto]

G'day Mark. That was a really heartfelt expression to camera, which is tough so I understand why you have been putting this off. Thanks for letting us know how things are going. Pick a nice sunny day, fire up Max, and let the bike be your therapy. It's the best prescription for tough times I can think of. The content obligations can be stuffed for now. Just ride and have fun, and you'll find your way back to video production when and if the time is right. Peace and love from Tori & Lisa

[@gogathome]

HI Mark, Sorry to hear your sad news. You do so much for men all over the world with your fun jolly videos, please don't feel bad when you not up to it, that's just life mate. Even this video reminds us all that life is not good sometimes but things will improve and you'll be back to your jolly self soon enough, you will just get fed up feeling bad I reckon and will pull yourself out of it. Go for a few spins on Charlie, don't even take the cameras, just do them for yourself. Keep on keeping on Mark, ye bloody legend.

[@markhazelgrove6915]

Mark, I think you probably have an idea of how much good you do with a video like this. That degree of straight-up honesty is your trademark, and it really expresses a feeling of shared experience in the community you have brought together over the years with your channel. Bikers of our generation have a lot of things in common, even in different countries around the world. You have a long reach mate, take it easy. M.

[@regaz1486]

Hey Mark, Listen up. I'm 70, lost everything at 62. The business, the house, the holiday home up the coast, no more overseas holidays, friends the lot - except my wife. She held me up & together we left it all behind. New life now with nothing but except each other. Oh and my RE Classic 500. When we ride nothing else matters. Get out there on your're bike.

[@robjones2852]

Mark: You've got an enormous amount of credibility banked from everything you've been and done...over many years. Whatever you find you can do I'm sure it will be honest and interesting and well worth waiting for, and watching. Whatever you choose to do, nothing can take away the value of what you have given us, from "talking shit", to organizing rides, to all the how to videos, thanks...I've enjoyed the lot and also acted upon quite a bit of it--I own a Himmy because your giveaway series videos and many of the accessories on my bike where chosen and installed as per you're thoughts and advice. The only thing I wouldn't do is ride a Boulevarde in the mud around Pooncarie--my backyard 😂...that was epic.

[@bradleyalexander5821]

I once heard a motorcycle racer say “riding is like a virus you live with, only you get sick if ya don’t do it”. Keep on keeping on folks.

[@filybear3331]

Thanks for sharing Mark. I've been through the same life shit as you, loss of my dad and reflecting on the past. ( Even that f'n platers flascifoot shit) and all I can say as hang in there. I started following you when you were just starting out and appreciateated your down to earth honesty. I know it didn't make you alot of money back then but it got you alot of followers who identified with you and followed as a friend and truely caring companion of your journies. All the best from Canada!!

[@The77Game]

Sorry for your loss but it was good to hear from you again.

[@ashmite]

Mark, now we have 4 things in common: A DR650, our age, plantar fasciitis, and I just lost my mother a few weeks ago. I think I know what you are going through, and things will get better. My sincere condolences about your loss. As for Plantar, two things help me. Proper Arch Supports. I can get Sketchers Arch Fit here in the USA and they are fantastic for PF. Also, try a foot roller, and while you are sitting at the computer, roll your arches back and forth other the rollers. Cold therapy helps too, a roller that you can put in the freezer helps. I'm in a slump also, but I have a weekend camping/ride coming up in two weeks and that should help.

[@heyshorrtty7001]

Mark, we appreciate your honesty and frankness. As a crew member I am not at all concerned about the lack of videos and especially not now we’re aware of the circumstances surrounding it. Most importantly look after yourself and your family. The rest will follow. ❤

[@andrew.hodges.camping]

Hi Mark, from reading all the comments so far, there is a lot of love from your KZbin family and probably hard for you to read right now. Sorry for your loss mate. With time you will get back on the iron horse. I’ve watched your channel from when we both had no grey hair. I’ve had plantar fasciitis and it sux but you will recover from it. Thanks for the update take your time getting back on your feet mate.

[@Nerb1]

Time to outsource the group rides/geocache etc? I know how you feel re videos. Sometimes we just need something a little inspirational to happen (which we cant force to happen) to kick us off again. I have a few projects im waiting for to kick me off ;)

[@graemeschubert6162]

Health first mate . Had a chuckle when the dog give a growl when you mentioned the jack and turkey 😅

[@spacetruckin6555]

Take all the time you need Mark. Quality content like yours is worth any wait.

[@okiemoto6114]

Condolences for your loss. I lost my father a few years ago and understand. Hang in there man.

[@funkymunky7935]

Keep on keeping on, Mark. Sorry for your loss

[@tassiemotoadv]

Very heart-felt mark condolences, mate.

[@philnelson940]

Hi Mark. I lost my beautiful partner of 22 years to Cancer at age 60 just 10 weeks ago, so I understand how you are feeling. Give yourself time & don't feel guilty or ashamed of how you are feeling... everybody handles it differently. Let Nay and your friends give you strength, and when the time is right you'll hop back on your bike. 'Wind therapy' has been great for me, so hopefully it'll be the same for you.

[@damiennoxon6701]

Thanks for the heartfelt video Mark. It must have been hard for you making it, but thank you. Not enough men admit being vulnerable in hard times because it’s hard but a huge thank you and I hope you gain strength from the amazing support you’re offered. It takes time, so take it and we look forward to your next ride when it happens. Cheers Damo

[@ExpeditionAustralia]

Sorry to hear about your Dad Mark. Life is a roller coaster mate. Hang in there fella.

[@astrobusa]

Sorry for your loss Mark. Thanks for the update.

[@SuperManelson]

Tough times are painful but once you go through it, you become a better human. Keep strong, Mark!

[@regaz1486]

Mark, if you need to get out of that dark place, dont hesitate to get help. Help is out there. A lot of us have been there and come out of it. Keep the rubber side down, shiny side up and keep riding & talking to us.

[@James_4444]

Thanks Mark, a wise man once said. "Keep on keep'n on" everything will work out, just takes time

[@phillipscott9998]

Mate vapes get rid of that crap , smoke and be happy , the loss of your dad will take months to recover in fact you never do. It becomes Eseyer to deal with but that takes time , Remember the good times you had and keep his memory alive in your heart. We all grieve in different ways , try not to let the black dog take control mate , it can when you have a lot of shit on your mind. Ask for help get on the bike and ride , don't cut people out , you will get through this .

[@Scooterbootz]

I don’t often comment on videos but I felt compelled to on this one. I could list so many ways your channel has inspired my riding journey but I wanted to keep it short since most of the comments share my sentiments. Take care and don’t forget to hug your dog because he knows when you’re down.

[@aussiebiketourer8159]

Sorry for your loss, no one expects anything of you and what you’ve both given us over the years is priceless. Winter! It bloody sucks but the sun will return. Take care guys, we’ll see you when we see you & thanks 👍

[@JustTex]

Condolences for your loss. I'm sure it's hard at the moment but hopefully with some bike therapy it will get easier. Cheers 4 sharing sir.

[@malspitty6424]

Hey Mark, Thanks for sharing, it does help with your mental health. I also had Plantar fasciitis and found that the bike was the only way to get around, couldn't drive a car or a forklift but could ride to and from work. We all understand it is hard to lose someone close, but with support all round from family and your channel, you will conquer and come back stronger and content within yourself. Take care and we will wait until you decide to return. Such a genuine man you are.👍

[@MOTODANS]

Hey Mark. Sorry to hear whats been happening. Keep on keeping on and we will all be here when your back

[@lynx0484ify]

Condolences Mark. Take one day at a time.

[@rickkearney5743]

Sorry to hear the news Mark. You will get there. Focus on all the great things you have, there are lots.

[@thatowensbloke]

thanks mate. we all get visited by the black dog, and bad circumstances, from time to time. its being man enough to admit that you are struggling - thats where we need to get to. bike therapy is always the key for me - even if its just a 10 minute squirt to the shops and back. every km helps. keep fighting the good fight. we will wait for you.

[@stevenjohannesen88]

Sorry for your loss, keep ya chin up, yes I’ve suffered that plantar fasciitis and had gout at the same time, it’s very painful, “keep on keeping on” cheers Mark❤️

[@bradsadventures4558]

You're a good man Mark... Keep on Keeping on

[@843292]

Mark, hang in there buddy. You don't know me but I've been following your stuff since around 2017. I got my DR largely because of your videos with Max. You're having a lot of positive impact on people's lives around the world (I'm evidence.) Thanks for always being genuine and honest. I hope someday I can hop over the ocean and join you on one of your rambles!

[@alexanderson1604]

So sorry to hear about your loss, grief is a very difficult process, it comes in waves and does take you to dark places but over time it does get better. I’ve been through it with both my parents and know what you are going through. Don’t worry about your crew we’re members because we like you, take as long as you need.

[@CRFLAus]

Yeah Mark it's tough mate. I lost my dad recently too after being his full time carer for 13 months. I couldn't go for a big ride over that time or do anything other than shopping for food. And now I have all the time but can't get in the headspace to go riding or do much at all. It's all temporary mate, things will swing back our way. Like you say, keep on keeping on, and thanks for the update (I didn't see it in the crew member part I don't go there much). Cheers Mark.

[@michaelpowsey]

HI Mark, I have been following your channel as a crew member for many years, take your time, it does get better over time and don't rush it. we will be here for when you get back.

[@andrewadams3759]

Hang in there mate , it will improve , time heals 🙂

[@SuperrBludger]

Hey Mark, sorry to hear about your father's recent passing. Hang in there, mate! Looking forward to seeing you on screen soon.

[@shaneclapham3004]

Feeling your pain. Been through similar situating with my dad recently. Love your your work. Missed you and your banging on 😂. Know your channel community are here for you. All the best mate.

[@46MOOKS]

All the best mate - thoughts are with you 🍺

[@pandytbox]

Hugs to you Mark and sorry for your loss. I had a little chuckle when the dog growled when you mentioned the possibility to adding some spirits to your coffee. Vapes suck. Smoking sucks (I smoke) but vapes are way worse. Everyone I spoken with has described the same breathing coughing problems you described. For anyone wanting to kick smokes I highly recommend the book by Allen Carr - The easy way to give up smoking. Take care and please look after yourself.

[@streetmoto1384]

Sorry to hear you're having a tough time Mark. Keep your chin up mate, pooch is a real belter 👍

[@louispeilschmidt4094]

Sorry to hear that you are in such a dark place. I can relate to all your gloom, with a helping of Winter blues. Health issues that prevents you (and me) from enjoying adventure riding. I'm in the process of reimagining myself, sounds like you are too, but you don't know it yet. There's no guarantees in life, old age is a privilege, although getting old sucks! Celebrate what's good in your life, give your dog a good roughing up from me. Get well soon.

[@MotorbikeHamster]

Hi Mark. Condolences to you. I lost my mum recently. Feel for you. On the Plantar fasciitis. I have had that. Went to see a specialist. He got me special inner soles with helped. For me, the joint of the big toe needed more room to move. While waiting for the inner soles to arrive we cut the corner off the normal ones. That helped alot. Take your time, get yourself right. We'll be here. All the best

[@chhill2006]

Hi Mark Sorry for your loss mate…great vid to help you expressing your health issues we have all been through it at some stage.. get back on Max ASAP we will all be watching 👍

[@Wallacewanderings]

Hi Mark, Great video, honest and heartfelt. Just know that you make a difference, and your videos have been enjoyable for a lot of people. Good on you for making them in the first place and making this one. Take care whatever you choose to do. And take your own advice and keep on keeping on . 😀👍

[@RAL1966]

Welcome back on the air mate. Can see the pain your feeling but take it one day at a time and eventually it will start to get better. Hope to see you back on to Max soon.

[@NinjoJas0]

I got into listening/watching biker bits because of how genuine you are. There are enough "influencers" out there, it's nice to see someone more home grown which makes it more relative. Keep on keepin on, much love from Canada.

[@donaldelsey2066]

Stay strong Mark, I can relate to your current situation mate, lost my Dad a few years back, my business turned it shit, Just put my Mum into care as she developed dementia, had to clear out her house and sell it. Had that plantar crap for about a year, ended up buying minimalist shoes to strengthen feet that helped me. I purchased a small adventure bike a couple of months ago and it has helped my mental health as getting out and about is the best therapy. I plan on doing solo camping and came across your very helpful channel. I’m in sunny Qld so riding in the winter is sensational. Keep on keeping on mate 😊

[@ramonfelstead8832]

Gday Mark, thanks for your honesty and sharing your tough times with us all. Sorry to hear of your loss. Not sure who said it but “it doesn’t matter if you slow down, what matters is that you don’t stop”. Take your time buddy, go for a ride.. f$&k it go for many rides!

[@aarenmyatt4509]

Keep on keeping on Mark. Respects to you man!

[@acs108]

Mate I wish you the best! Sorry to hear about your dad. I watch you on and off when I have the time, but definitely take your time to do whatever you need. I don't think anyone will blame you for what's going on and taking some time! Keep on keeping on.

[@robbo6799]

Hey mate, you’re a good bloke and you sharing this helps others as well as yourself. Tough times. You will get through it mate.

[@Itchybite]

All the best Mark.

[@KhillariSadovnik]

Thanks Mark that is a great effort on your part to get in front of the camera and poured your heart out which I hope has helped to relieve some of the mental anguish. Take care of yourself and try to get out for a ride..

[@bigjoe4020]

Thanks for the update, all the best

[@stuartferrier7560]

Thanks for sharing some of the darkness that has found its way to you in recent times Mark.I have seen more than enough grief during my life and the one thing that I have learnt is that you need time to help realign yourself and rediscover the things that are important to you. Please allow yourself that time. As much as we love your work...we can wait. Any time spent on Max or Whiskey (love the sound!) will be therapeutic, so go for it. Best wishes for a brighter tomorrow. Stu.

[@ChristopherMcreynolds-o6x]

Stay strong and follow your heart. Do what makes you get back to normal. Thanks Mark.

[@MickOTooleroadglide]

G’day Mark, I was thinking the same thing where the bloody hell has Mark been, good to see you up n about & thank you 🙏 for sharing your personal problems behind the scenes, My condolences to you and your families for the passing of your Dad, it definitely take time to process, but hopefully the sun shines on you soon & become the old Mark, speedy recovery on the foot, take care & look after yourself Nay & the family first then the rest will follow in time Cheers Mick 👍

[@b.n674]

You will bounce back.. time is a healer.. warm wishes

[@paulclarke4837]

Hey Mark, Firstly Condolences to You and the Family Mate. Don't beat yourself up, It's hard to lose your Parents. When My Father Passed away 4years ago it took me18months to get off the couch. Small steps but do what makes you Happy. Go For a Ride or go back and do something you've been putting off. Take that Time to Heal. Then You'll Find Your Path Again...KEEP ON KEEPING ON MATE

[@MortyGG]

Good to hear from you again Mark. Health comes first. Get right and do what your mind tells you - it's usually right. If you feel like it, get on Max and just go somewhere. Don't think about it being content, just go with the flow. All the best.

[@shanecolbert2435]

Hi Mark, I know a bit of what you are going through. Last year, I lost my mother, had a hip replacement that hasn't come good, and I have developed plantar fasciitis. This year I have also had a workplace injury that has caused pinching of a nerve that causes me a lot of pain down my shoulder and arm making driving or sitting at my desk unbearable. It really has brought me down, so I understand where you are coming from. Getting on the bike and going for a ride helps.

[@lee8]

Good to hear from you. What a real video man. Prayers for you and your family.

[@jase9389]

I've been in a similar place where I had a personal battle with myself and eventually I had trouble coping... For all those blokes (and gals) who feel that you are isolated with no escape or that nobody can help you, make sure you speak with your GP (or the many of the support options out there). For me, it was the most difficult thing I have ever done, but I can honestly say that reaching out is worth it. I'm sure my wife and children think the same.

[@peterc2876]

Hi Mark, Sorry to hear of your father’s recent passing. Lost my Dad in 2017 and it’s hard to fathom for sometime after but he’s always there in your memories mate and nobody can take that away. I actually suffered from PF in both feet at different times over the years, however a well placed injection of Cortisone fixed both permanently and have been completely pain free for six years now.

[@DanielOsborne-no8vi]

All the best Mark ,you are a good bloke

[@jaseferry1016]

Sorry for your loss Mark, it's hard to be positive when everything around you seems to be going to shit and winter is a crap time of year to be out n about. Thanks for being you and not editing it and keeping it roar, talking helps it's part of the therapy take care mate and enjoy the ride and as you know it helps too.

[@clivegreenall309]

Hi There Mark, and Nay. Condolences for your loss, from South Africa. You need time to grieve, so just relax and let time do the healing. Your viewers will still be here I'm sure and you have a global support base. All the Best from Jo'Burg

[@TheGravelBadger]

Hi mate, sometimes curveballs get in the way mate, sorry for your loss. I’m glad you put up this heartfelt video, was wondering what was up but guessed you had other priorities, we all do sometimes. Take your time mate, the way I see it is that as a crew member we support you through the highs and lows, particularly after everything you gave back to us, it’s really normal and it’s not about money but about camaraderie in the best possible Aussie spirit, and supporting each other when we most need it. So take your time, go get distracted by a great ride out, even if you don’t film it. All the best mate, anything you need, just shout. Cheers, Tony

[@adthar9340]

G'day Mark... I'm just a listener of the podcast, which is a great listen, by the way. I unfortunately can't offer anything to help with the loss of your Dad, other than offer condolences. But, I had plantar fasciitis awhile ago and solved the problem remarkably quickly using arch support insoles from the Athletes Foot. I tried a bunch of pharmacy and supermarket ones, but they didn't have enough arch support to make a difference. I now have the athletes foot ones in all my shoes/boots, and haven't had a problem for a couple years now. It's not much, but maybe it's a worth a shot and might mean one less thing to worry about.

[@billerker]

I must say - the rain falls on us all. Ask the good Lord for help and trust him. Thanks for sharing.

[@ericcullum1671]

Saddened to hear your news, thankyou for sharing even though you don't feel like it, but if you want to keep keep talking shit we are here listening. Can relate to not being on a bike for various reasons, my 109R has been sitting idle in the shed since late January, like yourself keep telling myself it will happen soon and Mark it will for both of us so hang in there

[@Damomaate]

Hey Mark, love the fact you have made such an honest vid (as per your MO haha), sorry for your loss my deepest condolences to you and the family, situations like this always hit the hardest. But I love your work, bugger the timeframes, just enjoy yourself and give yourself all the regular two-wheel therapy you need without feeling like you need to put vids out to us all, we’re here because we love your content mate regardless of timeframes Keep on being you mate 🤘🤘 and not trying to give advice but don’t sweat the small shit mate that stuff can wait, just like us haha, when you feel on top of things we’ll still be here eager as hell for your return mate

[@arnohag1]

So long as you are on the mend both physically and mentally. Your a trouper and we will be glad to hear you at a later time.

[@nathanhickeyhickey8693]

You're very giving Mark ( part of who You're, I suspect ) This is your time to take what YOU NEED .. whatever that is ! See you on the backroads , Mark .. hopefully around September when im down your way. Nath.

[@brianlinde4537]

Dear Mark. I hope you continue to spread joy in the world with your fantastic videos, and not least just your personality and lovely family. I have followed you from the beginning, and you have been a huge inspiration for me when I had an accident at work. Your motto of never giving up made me get back on the bike today. Thank you so much for you and your family. Mark remember when everything looks black there is always light in the fridge. positive thoughts to you and your family. Brian from Denmark

[@stephengreen2478]

Hi mark from the northeast of Scotland Feel you’re pain brother, lots dad 15 years ago but still miss his all knowing words A ride on max will do the trick I’m sure All the best from Bonny Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 keep on keeping on

[@bigjj974]

Don't worry about us just get well. We will be here when you get back. Thanks for the update.

[@ToddWainwright]

Thanks!

[@BikerBits]

Thanks heaps Todd... Muchly appreciated 👍

[@allun13]

Hi Mark. You'll get there mate. Take your time. All of us are on your side mate.

[@johndavis6596]

Lost my dad a year ago. Went through the same things. Wouldn't call it depression, but life felt bland and it was hard to get motivated for anything. Made myself get on my bike told myself Dad was riding with me. Helped a ton and I'm starting to get on now. Takes time mate so take it easy and just do everything in steps.

[@kendag2823]

So sorry to hear about your dad. I’ve been almost silent myself for nearly 14months… so wanted to get back in touch.. your channel with you and Naye was an inspiration for me to go biking big time… I know exactly how you’re feeling after losing my mum.. a cliche I know but time does help.. and using the tools that you enjoy will help too eg the bike 😉😎

[@whiskybiker4505]

Hi Mark, Sorry to hear the sad news. Take your time to get on top of things. A couple years ago the same happened to me with my dad. Different, but I think I can imagine what it must be like. Obviously, I love your videos and looking forward to you being back, but I don't mind waiting for them. Everyone will go through a rough period. I've been following you that long I can remember you thinking about putting up gazobos in the back yard for the couple bikes you had back then and doing that. Look at the situation now, lots more experience, work changed, family changed, own house, build garage, etc. I'll be sticking around for a lot longer, you take your time! Keep on keeping on!

[@twinphill900]

Hi Mark, being real and honest to yourself is a big thing. Being real and honest about yourself in front of an audience is another thing altogether. Huge amount of respect Mark, that takes a type of bravery few understand. I can see your moral compass points true, as well, Respect 🙏

[@andyrowe6652]

Mark your a legend!!

[@100thhog2]

Hi mate love you channel.keep your head up your not alone head noise is hard work👍

[@matxilda4100]

Great stuff Mark. Find something simple you like doing and do that… works wonders for me in those ‘nothing going right’ times

[@alexfladung]

We love you bud! Sorry to hear your news. Feel better soon. Chin up (in your own time).

[@PeterAndersons]

Yes mate, we're all getting older and I reckon we're a similar age, so you're concerns echo mine. Grieving is really shitty and there's no need to be concerned over content being overdue. I've had a few issues over the years and at those times my output is basically tumbleweeds. If you need to shelve the camera and spend family time and go for rides, then just do it - everyone here will understand and support you passively. Those who don't? Stuff them. Take it easy mate.

[@cointector]

Hear you loud and clear mark mate.. life is busy enough without always trying to pump out videos. It’s hard enough getting 1 a week.. When you do though can you please just do a little mechanical one for us . Like oh I dunno replacing hand grips or brake cable adjustment or disconnecting the side stand safety switch ?? When I was modifying my dr I always checked your videos out. Cracked me up but also put me on the right track. Take care mate sorry to hear about your dad.. PSs funny the dogs a pain in the ass but the most loyal friend 👍🍺

[@scottminshall6420]

Hey Mark, Two wheel therapy works wonders my friend, just like ballistic therapy. Again so sorry for your loss, I lost my father in the middle Covid fiasco and I still have my bad days but they are getting less and less. On the day he died I went out and bought a Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe, he always wanted one and never got one. I'm not get any younger so I did that for him and it was a good choice. So when I feel bad or down I take it for a ride and it all goes away. I need work on my DR650 and ride it more. Mark thanks for the video update, and you take all the time you need, and one more thing, don't get rid on my yearly subscription I have a hard enough time remembering to pay that when it comes due, monthly would drive me bananas! Cheers from Texas, USA.

[@mr0.59]

Hi Mark, sorry to hear about your loss. You are a good man, so please keep on, keeping on.

[@billcotton1551]

First, Mark ,my deepest sympathies on the passing of your Dad. When I used to run a lot, I got plantar fasciitis. I still remember the first time my foot hit the floor in the morning. I cured mine by wearing only shoes with flexible soles. It eventually went away.

[@dazaharrison]

Hey mate Losing someone so close can make you question everything Take time to just do you for a bit and let things settle. Go for rides without thinking you need to do it for others Therapy You got this bro

[@francissullivan7555]

Good to see ya back ,if you want instant relief from planta fasciatis,put a pen on the carpet and try to pick it up between your toes and ball of your foot for a couple of minutes it helps big time.Then you can go for a ride. For a good laugh i suggest watching million dollar bogans latest vlogs. Keep on keeping on Mark.

[@gregory8282]

Thanks Mark. Naomi was spot on! Had been wondering what had become of you. It's never easy to tell people your problems. I hope it all works out for you.

[@mikeleonard4871]

You’ll be good mate, but it just takes time. No need to apologies either.