Too old to ride? NO way!
Motorcycle Attorney: Strong women who carve their own path in life inspire me and women who ride seem to have that something special in their DNA that attracts them to the adventure of getting out on the open road. Sue shares how she grabbed life by the handlebars when she was told she was too old to ride.
Here’s more about Sue.
Name: Sue Arthur
Location: Mount Bethel, Pa
Occupation: Inventory Control & Receiving for Hitran Corp., N.J.
Current ride: 2011 Suzuki S40 Boulevard
When did you start riding and how did you get involved in motorcycles?
“1982 I dated a guy with a Honda 250. When my car broke down, that was our transportation to work and back. He encouraged me to get my license, but we parted ways before I did. When I met my husband, he requested I didn’t because he was afraid, not of my driving, but the other driver.”
How has riding motorcycles impacted your life?
“When my husband passed, it took a while to put things back in order. But after 4 years, I began to go back to things I did as a single. I remembered the lost dream of getting my license and decided to go for it.”
What has been your biggest challenge with riding?
“Probably the biggest challenge was people telling me I was too old and should be content with being a grandmother. But I have never walked away from a challenge and wasn’t about to now. So my son helped me pick out a bike and I practiced.”
What do you like most about your model motorcycle?
“My job is quite physical, so I could probably handle a bigger bike, but for now, the smaller single engine 650 is great for getting the basics down. Maybe in a year I will move up, but for now I love my gray mare and it matches my hair.”
What modifications have you made?
“I quickly learned you can’t buy anything without a sissy bar and rack to strap it to. I also am not fond of eating bugs, so she has a windshield.”
When you’re not riding motorcycles what are you other interest?
I love to kayak and sing. I also video bands and promote them through Facebook.
What advice do you have for other women riders?
Don’t let people’s negative opinion stop you from doing what you want, but listen to good advice. I have had a lot of good advice from other riders.
How tall are you?
I am 5’4″ and the bike fits like it was custom.
What is your weather like year round?
I have the four seasons, so I ride in spring, summer and fall.
How is riding therapy for you?
“Riding has given me a sense of confidence and enjoyment. The old saying about not arriving in heaven with a perfect body, but rather skid in totally used up with a smile saying “wow, what a ride” is so true. My husband taught me to enjoy everything life has to offer because tomorrow is promised to no one.”
You’re so right Sue! Live life to the fullest and you certainly are great women rider doing just that!
Ride on Susan!
Ride ON!
Brenda Fox
Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys® and BAM, Free Breakdown and Legal Assistance for Motorcyclists will be heading to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2012. For your free BAM Benefit Card make sure you stop by one of the Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys booth on Main St or Lazelle St in Sturgis or at the Legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip, and sign up.
