Interview with Tonio Farrugia

Interviewer: Oliver Cassar

From Harley Enthusiast to Road Explorer

Question: Tonio, you're an accountant by profession, but motorcycles—especially Harleys—seem to have completely captured your interest. What sparked your passion for bikes, and when did you decide to buy your first Harley?

Answer: Truth be said, I was always somewhat of a petrolhead. At the age of 18, I tried my luck with approaching my parents with the idea of getting my first bike… It didn’t go very well :p I then threw all of my energy into cars. It was good for some time… I was always intrigued by custom bikes. I believe American movies played a big role in that. A couple of years ago, when I approached my 50th birthday, I just said to myself, it's now or never… And here I am today.

Question: Since buying your first Harley about a year ago, you've expanded your collection with a Street Glide and more recently, a Pan America. Can you tell us about your experience with these bikes? What makes each of them special to you?

Answer: I got my first Harley in March '24. It was an 883. It was my first Harley, and I put a lot of effort into customizing it. It was fun, but I grew out of it pretty fast. Next came the Road King. It was a lucky strike and love at first sight. It's a 100th anniversary, and I have to admit that to date, it's my favorite bike. Next came the Street Glide. The idea of this bike was to have the right machine to help me travel and discover. Getting used to the bike wasn't easy. I can get used to the bike. I always preferred naked bikes, although I have to admit that today, I have become very fond of the front fairing concept. I just returned from a road trip with the Glide (with some of the La Valette buddies), and I have to admit that it's a perfect travel machine. We have become one. Last but not least came the Pan. I was discussing with Adrian about getting a daily ride. He suggested the Pan, and I was extremely sceptical about it. Putting it mildly, height is not my greatest virtue… so I was somewhat resigned to the fact of not being able to own an adventure bike. Adrian convinced me otherwise. We got a Pan, he worked his magic, and now I have my favorite daily runner. What I can say is that each of the Harleys I've owned (I have sold the 883) provides a different experience. In their own way, each bike is special.

Question: Owning a Pan America means you're stepping into the world of adventure riding. Do you plan to take it off-road or explore beyond Malta?

Answer: Off-road? No!... That would mean getting it dirty on purpose… Ma tarax, bro!!!!! Exploring beyond Malta is a big yes! Thank God Jennifer is also getting used to this world. She is a life member with HOG and an LOH.

Question: Being a relatively new member of the La Valette Malta HOG group, what made you decide to join? What do you enjoy most about riding with the group?

Answer: Let's just say that La Valette is the real deal. It's all about the core values of HOG, i.e., brotherhood, freedom, and love for bikes. In practice, I/we have been welcomed and made to feel at home from day one. The atmosphere makes you count the days from one event to the other… And yes, events are organized extremely well. Vanity plays its role with our media team. All the officers put in a lot of effort… Could anyone ask for more?

Question: Riding a Harley is more than just transportation—it’s a feeling. Can you describe what it means to you when you're on the road, especially on a Harley?

Answer: Riding a Harley is different, and most probably what sets Harleys apart is primarily the noise, the torque, and the customizations. When you own and customize a Harley, you own a unique piece of art. Driving a Harley is like driving royalty. On the road, you demand respect and you get respected… No two ways around it.

Question: Harley riders often talk about the freedom and thrill of the road. Do you have a specific ride that stands out as the most memorable?

Answer: Most definitely driving the Croatian coast. Amazing and breathtaking views, with continuous fast bends… Haaaaa, I LOVED IT!!!

Question: Motorcycles often bring people together. Have you formed any friendships through riding or the HOG group?

Answer: Most definitely. I feel part of a new family and am very eager for every meetup or drive. Some personal connections made are more special than others, but I cherish each and every one of them.

Question: You're known for being a great conversationalist, engaging in discussions. Do you ever find motorcycles to be a way to connect with different people?

Answer: Yes, I do, although I find it very hard to connect with people who are totally taken over by the thrill of exclusively driving speed bikes.

Question: Many Harley riders love customizing their bikes to reflect their personality. Have you made any modifications to your bikes, or do you have any customization plans in mind?

Answer: Oh, yes! I did, I do, I will… My first bike, the 883: total makeover. Road King 100th: just touches. Perfect as is… Mummy did an excellent job here. Street Glide: I dedicated this bike to Willie G. Put in a lot of Willie G touches, plus other improvements. Let's say we're 85% there. Pan America: WIP! It's turning out really nicely. Phase 1 is over… now it's time to fine-tune, and we start Phase 2… Can't wait to have it finished.

Question: Do you have any dream destinations or planned trips with your Harley? Any bucket list rides you'd love to experience?

Answer: No plans beyond the 2025 La Valette Malta group rides/events and HOG-organized events. With the risk of being cliché and sounding cheesy, the dream would be to drive on Route 66… With God's help, we'll get there too.

Question: Looking ahead, are there any Harley projects you're thinking of? Perhaps customizations or even future bike acquisitions?

Answer: To 'complete' (how can you ever complete a collection?) my collection, I really need:

- A Terminator Fatboy "I'll be back"

- A personalized customization project on a Heritage.

La Valette Malta