This week’s Woman Crush Wednesday we’re getting to know Kaprice Williams, a member of our Facebook Group + a brand new rider!
Please introduce yourself.
My name is Kaprice and I am a social worker here in Virginia. I would like to think that my empathy towards others is a God-given gift. My passion for people runs so deep that I would do my job for free. My clients inspire and challenge me to utilize my creativity to provide effective services. I finally found a job that did not make me feel like quitting when I clocked in and for that I am grateful. Every day is not a walk in the park, some days I am tired and desperately trying to find new interventions to incorporate in my work. What continues to fuel my passion is the smiling faces of my clients, them recalling something I have taught them, or simply a thank you. That is when I dig deep and remember why I decided to become a social worker. I am attending graduate school in the fall to embark on my next journey. I have been in the military for 7 years. I joined when I was 17 and it has been one of the best decisions I have made. My hobbies consist of cooking, abstract painting, and of course riding my motorcycle.
Describe your path to how you got to where you are with motorcycling today.
My dad inspired my journey to motorcycling. I started backpacking with him at the age of 8. My dad would take me to bike events and teach me about different motorcycles. I’ll never forget just how free I felt being on the back of his motorcycle. It was like nothing in the world mattered. When I was young, I met this beautiful black woman. She had a fierce red motorcycle and I was just in awe of how powerful she looked. I admired her passion and freedom for life. I told my dad that I wanted a motorcycle and though he did not want me to ride. He made me promise that I would wait until I turned 25. I kept that promise. This year when my 25th birthday came I looked at my dad and told him it was time. I bought my first Harley Davidson Softail slim this year in June. When I first started learning how to ride my dad would make me ride in small tight areas. I hated it but later learned that he was teaching through muscle memory. I rode every single day. Tired, sore, and sometimes frustrated, I continued to ride. Every day was a new experience my dad and my amazing boyfriend spent every single day riding with me until I felt comfortable. My dad guided me in the front and my boyfriend covered me in the rear. My support system has been unbelievable.
What has been your best experience while riding?
My best riding experience yet was recently doing a small group ride that consisted of 10 motorcycles and I was the only female. I conquered my first mountain in the Shenandoah Valley and rode over 4 hours on highways and back roads. I can be honest and say that I was nervous. I didn’t think that 2 months of riding prepared me to take on a mountain, but I pray just as hard as I ride and asked God to cover me. For the very first time, I felt fearless and freedom like no other. God has shown me HE IS GOD. So, when I ride, I quote this scripture: “He will cover me with his feathers, and under his wings, I will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. I will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day.” Psalm 91:4-5
And the worst? (Or not so good?)
My worst experience would have to be my very first time on the real road. I’ll never forget it and honestly, at the time it wasn’t funny, but I can laugh about it now. So, I had ridden well all that day and when it was time to go home my dad asked me if I was okay to ride the motorcycle back. Of course, I said yeah. We were at an intersection and my dad said we are going to make this right-hand turn. I accidentally let go of the clutch and my bike stalled out. I turned the bike back on and I intended to make the turn. Next thing I know, I go flying across 6 lanes of traffic and clean through the intersection. You are talking about somebody scared. My crazy self was screaming the whole way lol and by the grace of God cars hit their brakes and I was able to stop the bike. My dad chewed me out when we got home but I know I really scared him. After that, I got myself together and made sure that would never happen again. It’s not about how many times you fall, it’s about how many times you get up.
Can you relate a good story from your motorcycling experiences?
I have met so many incredible women on this journey and joining the Black Girls Ride Facebook Group has been a blessing. I have never been a part of such a warm and loving community of women sharing their experiences and empowering one another. I enjoy reading about their experiences and how they continue to overcome challenges. When a fellow sister is down, they continue to provide support and encouragement. My mentor Jackie Woods has been incredibly supportive and any questions I have she’s there to assist me. We may not talk every day, but she never hesitates to reach out.
If you could change anything about the world of motorcycling today, what would it be?
I would change the sigma of women on motorcycles in general. I think that some individuals over sexualize women on motorcycles. I want others to see that it is powerful to see a beautiful woman on a motorcycle.
Do you have any advice for people who want to get into motorcycling?
Do your research and make sure this is something you want to do. When you decide to be a part of the community never stop learning. Perfect your craft and ride as much as you can. You only get one life once so don’t live your life in fear and most importantly remember to ride at your skill level. Ride your own ride and be safe while you’re doing it.
If you could go on a ride with any of your motorcycling heroes – living or dead – who would they be?
Bessie Stringfield, the first black woman to ride across the US solo.
If you could teleport to any other place and time in history and ride your bike, where and when would that be?
I always felt like I was born in the wrong era. I’m an old soul and if I had to choose, it would be in the 80s and I don’t have a specific place.
What’s your dream bike? If you could design your dream motorcycle, what would it look, sound, and feel like?
My dream bike would be a Harley Road Glide with Vance & Hines fishtail pipes, rally red in color with white accent, chrome wheels, heated handgrips, cruise control, LED headlights, whitewall tires, and a 114 engine.
What is your favorite Sunday ride to do when you’re back home?
My favorite Sunday ride would have to be the ferry ride aka the 5 and dime.
What was the last great book you read?
Curtis Jackson’s “Hustle Harder, Hustle smarter.”
Any good music you have discovered of late?
I’ve always loved a good old school vibe, so I haven’t listened to anything new lately.
The last great meal/food/cuisine you had?
Recently, I just bought my first charcoal grill and my seafood shish kebabs have been my favorite.
What kind of legacy do you hope to leave?
I want to continue to empower women to be exactly who they are and to be strong while embarking on life’s journey. I want to leave a legacy of empowered women who share the love for the ride just as much as I do.
Any thoughts about Black Girls Ride Magazine?
I just wanted to say it’s been an honor to share a piece of myself with Black Girls Ride Magazine. It’s a beautiful thing for black women to come together to share their experiences and love for the ride. I also appreciate the knowledge provided in the magazine for new and experienced riders. Please continue to keep this going as we black women need a positive platform to continue to grow and shine. Thank you again for letting me be a part of this legacy.
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