LADIES WHO RIDE

Biking is often seen as a bit of a bloke-y pastime, but we all know that’s not the case. More women than ever before are getting on two wheels, but sometimes the pages of this paper are missing a bit more of a feminine touch. That’s why we’ve decided to introduce a new section that’s dedicated to showcasing some of the wonderful women who love motorcycles as much as anyone. We’ll be changing things up on a regular basis, but for this month we’re introducing you to some of our regular readers. Marta Freire

Age: 29

Job: Project Manager

How long have you been riding? Eight years

Bikes

A 2019 Triumph Bonneville Street Twin and sometimes I ride my partner’s 2018 BMW R1200RS (I’ve also got a 1998 Suzuki TU250X and a 1977 Suzuki RV125 over in Portugal).

How did you get into bikes?

My uncle had a classic AJS 500 Twin from 1954 and there were also two 70s Suzuki Van Vans in the family. I guess I was always fascinated but not really allowed to go on bikes until I had my licence. Once I was able to get my first bike (a Kawasaki ZZR400) then the doors had opened and freedom to go anywhere arrived! I absolutely loved my first proper adventure with my first bike.

Where do you like to ride?

I have been quite fortunate to live relatively near the countryside and I like to research what to explore next; roads matter (the quality of tarmac and type of scenery) and if there is some archaeological site nearby, even better. I really like to learn about the different cultures and populations which have lived in the UK. History helps to understand culture and appreciate some architectural features. I like to learn.

One of my go-to rides is to Tintern, Usk, going around Monmouthshire as there are quite nice roads and pretty spots. There is also Cheddar Gorge and the lovely roads around the Cotswolds. I can go alone or with friends, depending on availabilities or how much time I have for it. Bristol also has some hidden gems and the last lockdowns have definitely helped me to find a few more local spots.

What’s on your biker bucket list?

I have done a few European trips and I also have taken a bike from Bristol to Lisbon, but I certainly would like to have some more time to see more of Europe on two wheels or even further.

I have plans to do the Pyrenees, but likewise ride all the way to Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Albania and Greece; might have to do them in separate chunks or maybe an opportunity will come. I am open to see how I can make it work to explore more.

Morocco is also somewhere I would love to ride but I think for me it is more a question of planning and doing them as I go along.

As I speak Portuguese and Spanish, South America is obviously somewhere to try and explore on two wheels.

I do like to share my knowledge about bikes and the female perspective, so I took the punt and organised the Petrolettes Rally in Bristol for 2020 and 2021.

We have won an award already and I am looking at making sure the event gets better and better every year. If you’re interested, you should check out the Petrolettes website.

The MB legal column is compiled by managing partner Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast and his bike-riding barristers and solicitors at White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors.

The firm deals with personal injury claims and its sister company, Motor Defence Solicitors, deals with all the motoring offences. White Dalton lawyers have a vast knowledge of bike law, and they have full bike licences, too. They don’t act for insurance companies or the prosecution. White Dalton is Britain’s premier specialist motorcycle law practice, and if its professionals don’t know the answer to your question, there probably isn’t one. Don’t rely on the advice from your insuranceappointed solicitor, get proper independent advice.

For road traffic offences, call the Motor Defence solicitors on 0800 280 0912.

For non-offence cases, call White Dalton motorcycle solicitors on 0800 783 6191.

If you need advice on a biking-related legal question or query, email mail@whitedalton.co.uk. The best Q&A will be published in ,in confidence, of course.

If you’re running out of space in the shed (or you haven’t got one), then the best way to keep your bike in tip-top shape is by using a cover. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Gear Gremlin to offer you lovely lot the chance to get your hands on one of their Classic Neon Bike covers. The bright, waterproof and washable cover comes with elastic hems for a secure fit – and best of all, there’re some cut-outs at the sides, so you can easily lock your pride and joy up with a chain. Easy.

For more information, visit: www.thekeycollection. co.uk