Pretty typical beginnings
I'm guessing my story is not too unique. In fact, I hope that's the case, because that would mean there is a large community of dual sport women riders out there.
My first ride on a dirtbike was on the back of my boyfriend's motorcycle, hanging on as he gunned up rocky hillsides and later through the desert sands of Glamis, California. Come to think of it, my first street bike ride was with him, too, on an old restored vintage motorcycle, down the tree-lined backroads of rural Massachusetts. I did not resent being relegated to the "backseat." Being the passive passenger was exhilarating and more than enough fun for me. I'm not sure when I decided that I wanted to be in *control* of the bike, but I do know that my boyfriend was 100% on board with the idea. It turns out, he'd much rather have me ride alongside him on my own bike than clinging to him like a kidnapped maiden. Some women I've spoken to tell me I'm brave for participating in the "manly" aspect of the sport, and that it must be hard to "man up" and ride a motorcycle as the driver rather than passenger. I can't understand this mindset. I guess I'm a modern-day feminist. Yes, I ride a motorcycle. Yes, I'm a petite 5'2" girly-girl. I do tend toward the more "girly" in most other things, and wear dresses, heels, and lipstick (but granted, not while on the bike!). Those are not inconsistent qualities in a person. Life is too short to limit your choices due to societal expectations. If you see something you want to try, jump on it and don't look back. And if that happens to be riding off-road or street motorcycles, the "jump on it" becomes literal! I look forward to the day when I mention to someone that I ride dual sport motorcycles and they don't look at me like I'm joking. As more women take up sports and hobbies that were traditionally male-dominated, this becomes more likely. So.... Welcome to my website, please contribute to its discussion, and remember to keep the rubber side down. :) |
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