Living with *finesse is not about following a stereotypical female existence. It’s about living with skill, flair, grace elegance, poise and assurance. And that’s exactly how Bonnie rides her motorcycle. The 43 year old Nevada native has been riding dirt bikes since the age of 14, but moved to mostly street riding after taking a motorcycle safety course about 4 years ago. Her occupation is utility design on CAD, but on her time off she can be found riding her motorcycle and participating in the Iron Butt Association’s 1500 mile ride, which she completed in less than 36 hours.

Q: What’s the best thing about riding a motorcycle?

A: The best thing about riding a motorcycle is the sense of freedom it offers. It feels like it is you and nature. Nothing blocks your view or your sense of smell. No one is yapping in your ear about problems or your driving. It is a total escape from everyday issues – just you, your bike and the open road. And when you come across another biker there is sort of a kindred spirit there. One of a biker’s favorite quotes, (unfortunately I don’t know who said it) goes like this, “Only a biker knows why a dog sticks its head out the window.”

Q: What’s the biggest misconception about “bikers?”

A: I think the biggest misconception about bikers is that they are all outlaws, and that just isn’t the case. Unfortunately it is the stereotype, just like someone saying all lawyers are crooks. Yes, there are outlaw bikers, but there are just as many Christian rider groups – probably more. Now days most of the bikers on the road are really what we call weekend riders. During the week they are teachers, doctors, etc. and when the weekend comes they like to escape just like everyone else.

Q: What are your top three tips for woman interested in riding?

A: I so encourage women who even think they might like to ride to try it.

1) Sign up for a motorcycle training course, it is usually a two and a half day course offered by your local college or motorcycle dealer. It is fairly inexpensive and well worth the money. Proper training can save your life.

2) Don’t try to “impress” the guys. Get a bike that fits you, not your boyfriend or husband. Get the bike that you are comfortable on. You can always upgrade later, but starting out, get something reliable and that you can handle.

3) Find a friend to ride with. There are lots of motorcycle groups that are all about the fun and companionship. There is safety in numbers – even just two is safer than one. You automatically have something in common; the love to ride!! I have made some wonderful lifelong friends.

My riding finesse level:                  
Novice (rode a Honda 50 at age 12)    Advanced beginner     Competent        Proficient        Expert               

What’s your riding finesse level?

*finesse (skill, flair, grace elegance, poise, assurance)