Riders ready to rumble for the Black Dog Ride

Thousands of motorbike riders are about to set off on the inaugural Black Dog Ride across Australia.

The ride spans 14500 kilometres over 32 days and is aimed at raising money and awareness for depression, with this year's proceeds going to Lifeline and Mental Health First Aid Australia.

Among the riders this year is Nine's own Simon Bouda, who says "we're doing it for the Black Dog...we're all here for the same cause".

The Black Dog Ride kicks off this Saturday, July 26.