Barkın Bayoğlu (1975, Istanbul – 25 July 2017, Istanbul) was a Turkish motorcycle racer, editor, and program producer known for his work in motorcycle publishing. Bayoğlu, who was known in the motorcycle world by the nickname “The Man in the Golden Suit,” gained recognition for his test ride videos, television programs, and content published on motorcycles.

Barkın Bayoğlu was born in Istanbul in 1975. He began his primary education in Istanbul. After his family emigrated to England, he continued his education there. His interest in motorcycles began during this period, reportedly sparked by a fair he visited that featured motorcycles.

In later years, he studied political science in Belgium. After returning to Türkiye, he pursued his higher education at the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Bilgi University, graduating with honors in 1998. He was among the first graduates of Bilgi University.

Bayoğlu’s interest in motorcycles dates back to his childhood and early youth. He acquired his first motorcycle during his high school years. In addition to riding, he became interested in the technical structure and modification processes of motorcycles.

In the 2000s, he worked as a trainer at Telsim. He later spent a period in Kazakhstan. After his work in Kazakhstan, he used his accumulated savings to purchase a workshop in the automotive industry. During this time, it is reported that he converted a scooter into a chopper-style motorcycle.

During his military service, Barkın Bayoğlu volunteered with a peacekeeping force in Afghanistan. After completing his service, he turned his passion for motorcycles into a professional career.

During this period, he worked as a motorcycle test editor and editor for the magazine “İki Teker.” He later joined the staff of “Oto Haber” magazine, producing content on motorcycle tests, riding experiences, and technical evaluations. He also published articles on motorcycle culture and usage in various magazines.

The origin of Bayoğlu’s nickname “The Man in the Golden Suit” stems from his time in Kazakhstan. It is reported that he was deeply impressed by the mummified remains of a 5th century BCE prince buried in a golden robe and red kaftan at a museum he visited. After returning to Türkiye, he wore a golden-colored motorcycle suit during a video shoot, and the nickname “The Man in the Golden Suit” was born.

Barkın Bayoğlu began producing motorcycle videos with his director friends. After the content gained popularity, he launched the program “Piston” on the Showmax channel. The program ran for approximately ten episodes.

He later produced motorcycle programs on Skytürk under the title “Altın Elbiseli Adam.” In early 2012, he collaborated with Okan Bayülgen on projects for the 18 TV channel.

In 2010, he launched the YouTube channel “Altın Elbiseli Adam.” Bayoğlu became one of the most followed figures among motorcycle users for his published test ride videos, review clips, and educational content. In his productions, he examined various motorcycle brands and models, and shared information on motor sports, riding characteristics, equipment usage, and motorcycle culture.

Barkın Bayoğlu lost his life on 25 July 2017 in a traffic accident on the 15 July Martyrs Bridge in Istanbul.

The incident occurred during nighttime hours. It is reported that a driver who had stopped his car on the bridge stepped out and collided with Barkın Bayoğlu, who was approaching from the opposite direction on his motorcycle. Bayoğlu was seriously injured in the crash and taken to the hospital but could not be saved.

^{Barkın Bayoğlu Anma Töreni} (AA)

Barkın Bayoğlu’s body was taken from Haydarpaşa Numune Hospital and transported to Kerem Aydınlar Camii in Çengelköy. A large number of motorcycle riders attended the funeral ceremony. After the afternoon prayer, he was buried in the Çengelköy Cemetery.