Racing Champion Rory Skinner collects customised helmet
British Superbike Championship rider
Rory Skinner visited the UHI Perth's Automotive Paint and Bodywork workshop this week to collect a custom-painted helmet created by lecturer Norman Brunton with the Motor Vehicle students. The visit gave students the opportunity to meet one of Scotland’s most successful young racers and hear first-hand about his journey through the sport.
Rory, a multiple British champion who has competed in the Moto2 World Championship and now races in the British Superbike Championship for the Tas Racing Yamaha team, shared stories of his early start in racing and the path that led him to the top tier of UK motorsport. He told students:
“I’ve been racing since I was six. Bikes have been my life ever since my dad got me my first one when I was 18 months old. My dad owns Skinners Motorcycles in Glenearn Road, so I grew up around bikes. When I left school, I worked for my dad as a mechanic, but racing was always the goal.”
Skinner was granted special dispensation at age 11 to race on major UK circuits such as Silverstone and Knockhill — normally only allowed from age 12 —after demonstrating exceptional ability early on.
“From there on in, it was just my life. Racing has always been the thing I love.”
Norman explained his ongoing passion for bringing motorsport into the classroom:
“I’ve always been into bikes and supporting racers with paint and design work. When Rory asked me to do this year’s helmet, I was delighted.”
Rory’s TZ250 Yamaha was painted by Norman at the start of this year into official Yamaha colour scheme from the early 2000’s. Rory revealed that the bike has already made an impact online since he tested it during pre-season training abroad.
“I took my TZ250 Yamaha out to Spain about a month ago and posted it on Instagram. Over the last month, it has reached nearly a million accounts. Thanks to Norman, it’s gone pretty viral in my world!”
Looking ahead, Rory is preparing for another highly competitive season in the 2026 British Superbike Championship, one of the world’s most respected and tightly contested domestic racing series.
“Last season I was battling for third in the championship, but a concussion late in the year set me back. This year I’m racing with a Yamaha, and I’m really excited to get going. It’s what I love doing—it’s not just a job, it’s a passion.”
He encouraged students and fans to experience a live race at Knockhill this season, 19th-21st of June.
“It’s one thing watching on TV, but seeing it live is a buzz. The top 18 riders can be separated by less than a second—0.7 seconds a lap sometimes. It’s pretty scary being in the race, even more nerve-wracking watching from the outside!”
Norman said the visit was invaluable for students, offering inspiration and a real-world connection to the industry.
Learn more about our Motor Vehicle and Body Repair subject area.