PRIYANKA KOCHHAR, 32

MUMBAI Only Indian woman participant in Harley Davidson Triple Threat Press Event, Croatia Daily Ride: KTM Duke–200 The Essentials: Hydration pack, pepper spray if riding in India, energy bars, day and night visors

What was the highlight of your ride through Croatia?

Riding the Iron 1200 bike (256 kg), which is seven times my weight! But everything went smooth, thanks to the brilliant instructors. It was great to ride the Harley on Croatia’s cities and mountains. We toured and raced. It was a complete experience.

When did you start motorcycling and how did it happen to you?

Around four years ago, I had a bad break-up and was left with no friends. I just didn’t know how to get out of the gloomy mindscape. A friend of mine owned a Royal Enfield. I borrowed it from him and crammed up a lot of tutorials. A few falls, and the bike accepted me.

Do you think things have changed for women riders since you first started?

When I started, there were hardly any women on these machines. Now we see a ratio of 88:12 in many events. What we need are more exclusive motorsport events for women in order to encourage them to participate.

Dudes are always talking about women drivers.

Unfortunately, the moment [guys] realise that it’s a woman riding, they start following and racing.