From Wheels to Heart — Saurabh Jyoti

From envisioning a more exclusive business trade to embracing his drive for the riding fashion, Saurabh Jyoti is known to be one of the most influential personae of the country.

Looking for some answers, a short encounter via call with Mr. Jyoti during the nationwide lockdown due to the recent pandemic, also gave insight on his kindness and humbleness. “I will call you back in 5 minutes”, Saurabh Jyoti said when we reached him, and he did.

Saurabh Jyoti has a very warm and welcoming tone — having first-hand experience with the man, we saw why. Being aware of what Bikeyard Nepal is, he was ready to deliver the answers. Today we view an auto enthusiast who has been supervising Jyoti Group of Companies as a director and chair of Syakar Trading Company and has his hands full of external programs. Having joined the family business in 1999, Saurabh Jyoti believes he still has a long way to go and give.

When did you discover your passion for bikes?

Kagbeni
I think when I was fourteen I started riding bikes — in our factory premises, likely a CD100. Because our group has distributed Honda for decades, motorcycles were always around me. One memorable trip I will always recall is the Manang round-trip — difficult roads but full of reward and fun.

On collecting & maintaining bikes

I began restoring bikes in 1996. Initially I did everything myself; as the collection grew I hired 2–3 service staff for weekly maintenance: lubricating, fuel checks, battery charging and basic upkeep. As for the exact number of bikes, it's changing — soon I will open the SJMOTO gallery for the public to see the collection.

Gallery update

The SJMOTO gallery will be at Jyoti Bhawan Kantipath and—per Mr. Jyoti—will welcome all auto-enthusiasts without an entry fee. He intends to announce the opening when conditions allow.

It is confirmed that SJMOTO Gallery will be wheelchair friendly.

Balancing life & work

I try to find time for what I love. Weekends are for family outings — my wife also loves riding — and short weekday trips when possible.

Where do bikes fit in your life?

Riding is a form of meditation for me. It keeps me calm, focused and motivated — it's freedom and control combined. There are many roads I still want to explore.

One bike on the wishlist

MV Brutale 1000 Oro and Arch Method 143 are two models I admire and hope to add.

A bike with emotional value

I bought back and restored my father's Honda Dax 70 — a very special piece. I also enjoy riding the Honda CB1000R for its smoothness and usability.

Perspective on bikers in Nepal

I see two groups: commuters and passionate riders. The growth of the riding culture is positive — it can boost domestic tourism and community. Some public misconceptions exist around big-bike riders, but many are responsible and safety conscious; riders should still emphasize helmets, gloves and adherence to traffic rules.

Roads, traffic & riding manners

Traffic is natural for big cities. Outside Kathmandu there are beautiful roads but overall Nepal needs better periodic maintenance and quality construction. Roads are lifelines for emergency services, supplies and commerce — investment and upkeep matter.

Motor-sport possibilities

Events and racing interest are growing. We've sent riders to One-Make races and seen good results. The missing piece is proper circuits and infrastructure — with that, Nepalese riders could build international careers.

Advice for youth

Be consistent, work hard, and commit — there are no shortcuts. Visualize your goal and put in the daily work.

I am an auto-enthusiast because I eat, sleep, and dream of machines.

Thank you to Mr. Jyoti for this generous conversation. Bikeyard Nepal — wishing productive and healthy days.