About me
I’m Paul Massey, though most people know me as “the DustRoom,” a name I have been known by for over 20 years. My friends often call me “Dust” or “Dusty,” and it is a name that has come to represent my passion for music, motorcycles, and creativity.
I am a forty-something bloke, proud father, Ducatista, petrolhead, and a bit of an oddball. Above all else, I am a passionate motorcyclist. There is nothing quite like hitting the open road on my beloved bikes, feeling the wind in my face, and connecting with others who share the same passion. Over the years, I have made countless friends through my love of motorcycling.
I currently live in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, a city surrounded by breathtaking scenery and incredible roads. It is the perfect place for someone like me who loves exploring winding routes and rolling hills. I feel incredibly lucky to call this beautiful part of the country home and to have these roads as my playground.
Music
I make music under the moniker "the DustRoom" as well, you can find my music on all major streaming platforms:
https://songwhip.com/thedustroom
Read more about my music here.
My journey back to two wheels
After recovering from a serious illness in early 2022, I decided it was time to set myself a new goal: getting back on two wheels and rediscovering my love for motorcycling.
I had ridden motorcycles years ago before passing my car test, but when I looked to get a new bike, I discovered that the entitlement had vanished from my licence. This was most likely due to an update when I changed address or renewed my photo ID, and I had not noticed at the time. Unfortunately, as it had been so long, the DVLA had no record, leaving me with only one option: to start again.
I am not truly myself unless I'm on my bike.
While retaking my test was not something I had ever planned for, getting back on two wheels was a goal I had dreamed of for years. What initially felt like a setback became an opportunity to reignite my passion for motorcycling, and little did I realise that the journey would be even more exciting and rewarding than I had ever expected.
It all began on 8th March 2022, when I completed my Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). I remember feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves as I arrived at the training centre. It had been many years since I had last thrown my leg over a bike, and while my brain still knew how to ride, my body had forgotten.
After completing my CBT, the next step was to pass the Theory Test, which I successfully did before moving on to the Module One (MOD1) test. I was both apprehensive and excited, knowing that the skills I had refreshed during my CBT and additional training would be put to the test.
I completed several training days to prepare for MOD1, focusing on refining my control and balance. The test itself was challenging, requiring me to manoeuvre the bike through a series of exercises designed to demonstrate precise handling and confidence. On 25th April 2022, I passed the MOD1 test. It was a huge relief and gave me a real boost in confidence as I progressed toward my full motorbike licence.
After completing the MOD1 test, I was feeling confident in my abilities and decided to pop into SMC in Sheffield just to have a look at some bikes. However, as soon as I saw the 2018 Ducati Scrambler Classic that they had, I just couldn't resist it. It was love at first sight, and I knew that I had to have it.
I then had to tackle the Module Two (MOD2) test and I felt a little pressure now that I had a bike ready and waiting for me. This test focused on my ability to ride safely and competently on the road, and it was more extensive than the CBT and MOD1 tests. During the MOD2 test, I had to demonstrate my ability to navigate a range of traffic situations, including junctions, roundabouts, and dual carriageways. I was thrilled when I passed the MOD2 test on 10th May 2022, which meant that I could finally apply for my full motorbike license.
My 46th birthday was on the 12th of May 2022, and I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than by riding my Ducati Scrambler on the winding roads of the countryside. The sun was shining, and the wind was in my face, making it a perfect day for a ride. As I rode, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in passing my motorbike test and finally being able to enjoy the freedom of riding on the open road.
Looking back, passing my motorbike test again was a significant achievement and a meaningful step in my journey back to motorcycling. From completing my CBT on 8th March 2022 to earning my full bike licence on 10th May, the journey back to two wheels was incredibly fast. It required dedication, hard work, and practice to refresh the skills I once had, but the experience was both rewarding and nostalgic. Now that I am back on two wheels with the confidence and knowledge to ride safely, I am eager to embrace new adventures. I look forward to exploring new places and rediscovering the joy of experiencing the world from the saddle of my bike.
Mental Health
I have found that riding my motorcycle has had a significant positive impact on my mental health. Riding provides me with a sense of freedom, having the wind in my face and experiencing the sound of the engine is invigorating. The sense of focus required while riding also provides me with a break from my daily routine and helps me clear my mind. Being on my bike and feeling the power and control is an incredible experience that is hard to describe. I find that I am not truly myself unless I'm on my bike.
Mental Health Motorbike
In addition to my love for motorcycles, and because I find motorcycles have a positive impact on my own mental health, I'm also passionate about mental health awareness and want to help others who might be struggling.
I watched The Motorbike Show, in one episode which aired in October 2022, presenter Henry Cole met up with Mental Health Motorbike at Outkast Cafe in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire. I thought that this was an excellent resource for bikers in the UK and wanted to get involved.
Mental Health Motorbike is a charity that exists to create meaningful opportunities so that they can grow the greater well-being of the motorbike community. Their ultimate aim is to reduce suicide amongst bikers in the UK.
They are building a free, dedicated network of trained Mental Health First Aiders who can support other bikers across the UK.
In March 2023, I completed my Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) training through MHFA England, supported by Mental Health Motorbike. This equipped me with the skills to support others both in person and online.
In 2024, I was proud to take on the role of Regional Coordinator for South Yorkshire with Mental Health Motorbike, allowing me to contribute even more to this much-needed and worthwhile cause. I look forward to continuing to help out locally, supporting fellow bikers, and promoting mental health awareness within the motorcycling community and beyond.
For more information please visit mhmotorbike.com, and get involved with them, myself and the many other Mental Health First Aiders via their Facebook group.
If you need emergency help please refer to this page on their website.
Follow Me
You can find me on the following platforms: