We still get asked about the "Those Girls" contest we ran last year. Lady riders want to read the stories of other women riders. We feature a different story every month.

I always wanted to learn to ride. When my husband got his second bike he wanted me to try his Kawasaki 500. My first ride was in the DARK yard. I dumped it before even going 20 feet, with his encouragement I didn’t give up. Next I’m thinking, this is easy and I am in love. The wind in my face, the love of my life cruising next to me. Life is good. My THIRD ride- what an adventure. At the highway I sit, scared to be in traffic. Shaking I slowly pull on to the highway, to afraid to go any faster then 30 and not super good at turns, a semi almost runs me over. I ended up in a ditch but with my bike still upright. I head home shaken. After a bit we try again. A 100 miles later we head to my parents place to show off my new skills. So much for showing off. I no more then get into the driveway when I go down. I jump up crying, yes I have some scratches but no I’m crying over my pretty bike with the BIG crushed tank. I know the best thing is to get back on. After that I would ride just to feel the freedom. As for my bike well I am one of “THOSE” girls, I took a class and learned how to repair/repaint my bike all my self. Now my husbands red vulcan is my beautiful blue Vulcan.

-Michelle Orlovetz