Most motorbike news usually relates to how the latest product from BMW or Suzuki is faster, easier to control and easier to maintain than it’s predecessor. But the most interesting motorbike-related story in the UK today has to be that of a competition to find a stunt double to stand in for artist Grayson Perry’s childhood teddy bear (Mr. Measles), which will be perched on the back of Perry’s motorbike whilst on display to the public.

Sounds ridiculous? Hard to deny really. But in some circles finding some teddy bears that have the requisite skills is being taken very seriously. The British Museum, who will be displaying Perry’s technicoloured motorbike, has held a competition to find three bears who will each do six week shifts.

The public were also able to vote for their choice of stunt bear, but Perry was keen to consult his 50 year old bear, Mr. Measles, before making the final decision.

You may be surprised to discover that 280 bears applied for the available posts. Among the 12 lucky bears to be short-listed were Dr Schmoo – a consultant vertebrate paleontologist and Fag Burn Blue – Protector of his master Billywinkle.

If teddy bears aren’t your thing, then perhaps you’ll pop along to the British Museum to see Perry’s dazzling motorbike which, despite all the talk of stunt-bears, will actually be stationary for the exhibit. I’m not sure what the implications of carrying bears on the back of your bike are as regards motorbike breakdown cover, but I’m sure there must be some!

Grayson Perry: Tomb of the Unknown Craftsmen, supported by AlixPartners with Louis Vuitton, will run from October 6th until February 19th at the British Museum.