I first started riding when I left school in 1989. I got a moped because my mum, dad, stepdad and stepbrother all had bikes, so I was surrounded by motorcycling from an early age.
I then got a Yamaha RS125, and my boyfriend at the time (now my husband of 30 years) taught me how to ride with gears in 1990. Fast forward more than three decades, and I now own five motorbikes and live on the Isle of Man.
When I was 16, I always dreamed of owning a Harley-Davidson. That dream finally became a reality in October 2021 when I bought a Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle 1250. I remember constantly walking into the garage just to look at it because I couldn't quite believe it was mine. I still own it today, alongside a Ducati Monster 937, BMW F750GS, BMW S1000RR and Kawasaki ZX-6R.
I like having a bike for every occasion. The GS is perfect for touring and visiting friends in the UK, and I've recently completed the NC500 on it. The Ducati is probably the most fun bike to ride, while the Kawasaki is my track bike, which is something I've only recently got into.
My favourite motorcycle trip to date was the Garden Route tour in South Africa with Ride Expeditions in 2024. I spent a week riding a BMW R1250GS with an organised group. I travelled on my own, but everyone was so welcoming that I immediately felt part of the group. The scenery was incredible, the roads were amazing, and the hotels and experiences were first class. I loved the trip so much that I genuinely didn't want it to end. It will always be one of my favourite memories.
I can't imagine not riding a bike. It's part of who I am. For me, riding is freedom – just me, the bike and the open road. It's also therapy. No matter what sort of day you've had, a ride can make everything feel better. If the sun is shining, it's time to ride.
One of my favourite quotes is: "Four wheels move the body, two wheels move the soul." I think that sums it up perfectly.
What I love most about biking is the people. Bikers are incredibly friendly. You can stop almost anywhere and strike up a conversation with complete strangers. I don't know any other hobby that has the same level of camaraderie and community.
I would encourage any woman who has ever thought about riding a motorcycle to just do it. Life is too short for regrets, and I'd hate to look back and wish I'd given it a go. You only get one life, so make the most of it.