HER STORY | Capri Stuart

Her Story. A series of blog posts telling the stories of 'women who ride' from all corners of the globe. We hope that by sharing these stories we can help encourage other women to build their confidence, learn from others and inspire others.

This month we have a story from Capri Stuart, a stay at home mum/artist, from Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Since learning to ride only six months ago Capri has found a new love for motorcycles and the track.

We hope you enjoy her story.

My name is Capri Stuart. I’m a Mom to three kids living in Scottsdale, AZ and I learned to ride a motorcycle this year. I rode my first motorcycle in July and rode in my first track race in November. I’ve caught the bug and feel moto-obsessed.

"Out on my bobber on one of my solo rides through the city"

I recently found a diary entry from when I was 7 where I wrote about riding on my uncle’s motorcycle with him and going “so fast.” I said it was the best day of my life. Apparently, that love laid dormant for 31 years.

It was my boyfriend, Leif, that awoke the moto beast within me. When we met, I was drawn to his motorcycle racing photos. He was intrigued by my Triumph shirt. I was an artist and a graphic designer and always loved the logo. I started watching MotoGP then went with him to the racetrack for the first time a few months after we started dating. I loved the sights, the sounds, the smells. The following month I designed a logo for him, and the month after that I painted it on his race bike. I was introduced to the track photographer and got the chance to go out and take photos up close. I loved everything about my new moto weekends.

Several times, Leif asked if I wanted to ride. I giggled and said I didn’t think I could even pick a bike up off the kickstand, my small stature still looming over my confidence. I grew up the youngest of 3, only girl. I’ve always been tiny. He never pushed me, but instead dropped breadcrumbs. He casually asked me to sit on a bike during a trip to pick up parts at a dealership. The bike wasn’t as heavy as I thought. He then sent me the link to TEAM Arizona’s class schedule. “Take a class. I’ll pay. See if you like it,” he encouraged. I took the Basic Motorcycle Riders Course and fell in love the first day.

Leif got me started with track gear and a Kawasaki Ninja 300 and took me to a “Ladies Only” track day. I loved it so much but missed it when we got home. I told him I wanted to ride on the street so I could ride more often.

We started looking online for bikes and I kept getting drawn to bobbers. We test rode some and I wrecked the Triumph Bonneville Bobber on the test ride!! (I was having an off day mentally and really shouldn’t have been riding that day). We ended up buying the bike anyway and we’ve been repairing it ourselves. I really like the fun of the sport bike, the seating position, and zipping around. But I also really like the bobber. It’s more laid back-cool-bad-ass. I like both. I can see that the motorcycle addiction is real. I want to fill my garage with so many!

I love the way riding makes me feel, the freedom, the independence. I feel like a badass. Riding a motorcycle levels the playing field. Being small doesn’t hold me back. On the track, my small size actually puts me at an advantage. I rode in my first race just this month and it was exhilarating. I have gotten to know several new lady riders and am trying to get our own championship race class together for next season at Arroyo Seco in Deming, NM.

My tips for anyone out there thinking they can’t do it:

1. You can! Being so small always made me feel like I was at a disadvantage. Full grown I still only stand 5’2” and weigh about 105lbs (47kgs) soaking wet. If I can ride, you can ride.

2. Find a Basic Rider’s Course in your area. You can use their gear, drop their bikes, and learn at your own pace. There is no shame. Then go to a dealership and sit on some bikes. Start small and move up when you’re ready.

3. The track is the safest place to ride. There is no “traffic” and unlike the street, everyone is looking out for you. There are also lots of opportunity for free coaching there. Don’t be intimidated. Women are the future of the sport. You can do this, and you will love it!

Thank you to Capri for sharing her story.
To follow Capri's moto adventures or to check out her artwork please hit the following links:
IG: @caprimoto and @goldilocks.studio
Facebook: Capri Stuart
Web: www.capristu.art

If you would like to share your story with us simply go to the GET IN TOUCH page, fill in your details and we will gladly be in contact.

"When I crashed at the track. I forgot to mention in my story… Crashing happens. If you wear the right gear and ride defensively, the damage is minimized. I crashed on the track and got right back out there for the next session with just a few bruises. The important part is just to keep getting back up and getting back on. Don’t quit."