Motorcycles have always fascinated me. When I was a kid, bikes looked so cool, and I knew that one day, I’d get one. I didn’t really have access to motorsports when I was young, but in 2003, my life changed. My cousin showed up at my house on his brand new bike. I asked him to take me for a ride and away we went! I knew I liked the feeling of riding, but I also knew I didn’t want to be a passenger. I wanted to feel the grips in my hands and control my own destiny. Something about that ride woke up a part of my spirit. I had gotten a bonus from work and wanted to buy something cool. Mentally, I didn’t know if I could handle a bike. So, I was leaning more toward buying a big screen tv than a motorcycle. I told my cousin what I was thinking and he took me to see the movie “Biker Boyz”. I loved it! In hindsight, it was the cheesiest biker movie ever, but my biggest take away was the representation of black women, each riding on their own bikes. On the screen, I saw women that looked like me, riding alongside the men. They weren’t just sexy accessories to the lifestyle, but participants in their own right. I thought, if these women could ride, so could I. So, I headed to craigslist and I bought my 1998 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. I jumped into riding with both feet and never looked back!
As I started riding, I was having a lot of fun, but the missing part was motorcycle safety. I bought my bike, and my cousin taught me a few things in his neighborhood. Outside of that, I didn’t have any real instruction. I had found my tribe in the motorcycle community, Steel Horses MC. They were known for precision riding and being a great group of motorcyclists who are always willing to help each other. While trying to keep up with the big boys and girls, I had gotten a ticket for riding without an M1, or motorcycle classification. The officer threatened to take my bike for 30 days, but my club brother assured him I would take the class and get my license. This was the fuel I needed to go and take the MSF safety course. I found a two day course near me, and it was a lot of fun! The MSF course taught me about gear, and why it’s important to ride with all the gear, all the time. I learned about “T-CLOCK” and basic motorcycle maintenance. My biggest takeaway was evasive maneuvers and how to react to obstacles or sudden stops. I’ve since been in situations where all of these skills have saved my life. After the class, I went to the DMV and got my license. This is still one of my proudest moments. After the class, I realized I had been extremely lucky and blessed. I tell everyone that asks about learning to ride to take the class first! Learn how to ride the proper way, and don’t inherit the bad habits of your riding buddies.
Through Motorcycling, I’ve learned how to conquer my fears, been introduced to a new community of friends and found the freedom to chase my passions. Motorcycling is not only a life skill, it provides wind therapy. After taking care of family, this is the one activity where you’re allowed to put yourself first. It’s the one activity that can be done in a group, but still give you the feeling of communing with yourself. You’ll meet new people that you’ll come to love as family. I’ve discovered my purpose to inspire new riders, and to be of service through education and advice. My passion and purpose for motorcycling fuels Black Girls Ride Magazine. What started on the streets of Los Angeles in 2011, has become and international movement of women riders. We want to continue to encourage women all over the world to challenge themselves, learn to ride and find the joys in motorcycling that we have. All riders are always welcome!
That’s my story, now let’s hear yours! We’re partnering with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to spread the word about our love for motorcycling. Share your story on how motorcycling has affected your life and win $500 in gear! To enter, email: hello@blackgirlsride.com with your story of 500 words, along with a picture of you on your bike. Please include your full name and contact phone number. The contest will run from April 1 – May 1, 2023. The winner will be announced on May 6, 2023. Winner will be notified by email and text message. That’s it! Happy riding!
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