MCN columnist Kevin Ash dies

MCN is deeply saddened to report the death of long-time columnist, former staffer and hugely respected freelance motorcycle journalist Kevin Ash.

‘Ashy’, as he was fondly known throughout the motorcycling industry, died following an accident during a BMW press launch in South Africa on Tuesday.

BMW have released the following official statement:

“It is with deep regret that BMW Motorrad confirms the fatal injury of Kevin Ash in a motorcycle accident during a launch event in South Africa. The accident happened to the north of a town called George, 250 kilometres east of Cape Town. Out of respect for Kevin’s family and friends, no further information is being made available at this time.”
 
Adrian Roderick, general manager for BMW Motorrad UK, said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the awful news about Kevin Ash; one of the most well-liked, experienced and respected journalists in the extremely close-knit motorcycle community. Losing Kevin is a tragedy which will be felt across the entire industry. He was a friend, as much as a journalist, and will be sorely missed. Our heartfelt thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this awful time.”

The writer of a regular column in MCN, along with his long-lived ‘Techwatch’ feature, Kevin was also the Daily Telegraph’s motorcycling correspondant.
 
A qualified engineer, Kevin began his motorcycle journalism career as a founder member of Fast Bikes magazine in 1991 before joining MCN in 1994 rising to Assistant Editor in 1997. He then left to become a prolific freelance writer, not just for MCN and the Telegraph but for magazines around the world.

Known for his technical authority, clarity of expression and prolific output, Kevin was also sharp-witted, great company, a devoted husband and father to his wife and three daughters and universally liked.

MCN passes on our deep condolences to his family and will be paying Kevin a full tribute in next week’s edition.