As seen in The Smidsy: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) have a way of turning life upside down in an instant. For me, it was a day that started out as ordinary but ended up defining my future in ways I could never have imagined.

While the physical scars from my accident are visible, the emotional and mental journey to recovery has been equally transformative, and one I would say is far more challenging. The mental health side is the part I wish we would all talk about more!

My story began in 2014 when a car running a red light hit me while I was cycling. The accident left me with life-altering injuries, including chronic pain and a long road of seven surgeries and years of rehabilitation. While the journey was incredibly difficult, it also brought new opportunities and achievements. From discovering a passion for motorcycling—a pursuit that would become a cornerstone of my recovery—to competing in the gruelling Africa Eco Race, my life transformed in unexpected ways. These milestones remind me that even in the face of adversity, growth and resilience are possible.

Acknowledging the Challenges

In the weeks and months following my accident, I was overwhelmed by a rollercoaster of emotions: fear, anger, sadness, and even disbelief. Adjusting to my “new normal” was incredibly hard. I faced challenges that ranged from managing chronic pain and surgeries to grieving the life I once knew.

In those early days, it was easy to feel isolated, like no one truly understood what I was going through. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that it’s okay to feel this way. Recovery—both physical and emotional—takes time, and allowing yourself space to grieve and process is part of the healing process.

Turning Pain into Purpose

As time went on, I began to shift my focus. I realised that while I couldn’t change what had happened, I could change how I responded to it. Setting small, achievable goals became a cornerstone of my journey. Whether it was completing physiotherapy exercises or simply getting out of bed on tough days, each accomplishment built my resilience.

A big turning point came when I discovered a new passion for adventure, which became a transformative part of my life after the accident. I discovered motorcycles for the first time, finding that riding them not only brought joy but also became a vital part of my mental health journey. Getting on the bike wasn’t just about reclaiming a hobby—it was about proving to myself that I could overcome fear and rebuild my confidence.

The Power of Support

I couldn’t have done this alone. My support system—my family, friends, and even the biking community—played a pivotal role in my recovery. Whether it was a listening ear, words of encouragement, or practical help, these acts of kindness reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Seeking professional help, such as counselling, also provided me with tools to process my emotions and build mental strength.

Practical Steps for Staying Hopeful

During the darkest times, I leaned on a few strategies to keep moving forward:

1. Mindfulness: Mindfulness is now a big part of my life. When my hip is hurting particularly badly, most of the time I can cope with it, but there are moments when I get angry and can quickly spiral down into a toxic, negative mental state. Through mindfulness, I’ve learned to be conscious of my thought processes and recognise early triggers, allowing me to take control of both my conscious and subconscious thoughts.
2. Focusing on Small Wins: Celebrating even the tiniest victories kept me motivated. Goal setting became an essential part of my recovery. From small achievements like putting on my own socks or making it downstairs to sit at the table for dinner, to bigger milestones like walking around the garden on crutches, every goal gave me something to focus on and work towards. These small wins built my confidence and reminded me that progress, no matter how small, is still progress.
3. Connecting with Others: Talking to people who had experienced similar challenges made me feel understood and inspired. I’ve also learned the importance of asking for help and being okay with vulnerability. You can’t do it alone, and it’s important to let loved ones in. Whether it’s a family member helping with daily tasks or a friend offering a listening ear, accepting support can make a world of difference. Your loved ones will want to help you—let them.
4. Finding Joy in the Present: Simple pleasures—like a sunny day or a good cup of coffee—reminded me of life’s beauty. Gratitude also became an essential practice. While I couldn’t have or do everything I wanted, I learned to focus on the things I still had to be grateful for. Whether it was a kind word from a loved one, the sight of flowers blooming in the garden, or even the small victory of completing a daily goal, these moments lifted my day. Actively seeking out these little joys gave me a sense of uplift and perspective, even during the hardest times.
5. Coping with Pain: Living with chronic pain is an ongoing battle, but I’ve developed strategies to manage it. For me, it’s about breaking the pain cycle by staying active within my limits, using mindfulness techniques to shift focus from the pain, and setting achievable goals that help me stay motivated. Accepting that some days will be harder than others has also been key, as has learning to ask for help when needed.

A Message of Hope

If you’ve recently been involved in an RTA, I want you to know this:

Recovery

When people say ‘recovery’, you typically think of returning to how you were before the accident. But there is no going back. You do not merely recover; you reinvent yourself. You learn so much as you fight through; it’s an irreversible journey. While my journey over the past years has been brutal, I feel somehow lucky. I have friends now I would never have met, I have discovered a passion for motorcycling that I would never have explored, I have realised the importance of a work-life balance, I’ve become even closer to my husband and soulmate, and I have a fire in my soul only this type of recovery could light.

You’re not alone, and things can get better. The road to recovery may be long and winding, but each step forward is a testament to your strength. Allow yourself to grieve, reach out for support, and take one day at a time.

Your journey won’t look exactly like mine, and that’s okay. What matters is that you keep moving forward—even if some days, that simply means holding on. Remember, you are more resilient than you think. But every day, do something towards that irreversible journey to a new you.

For the rest of The Smidsy article see here.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in The Injection Mag: Discover Vanessa Ruck’s inspiring journey during UK Disability History Month. Embrace uniqueness and positivity with her story of resilience and joy.

Embracing my vitiligo has brought its own joy. I’ve come to appreciate the unique patterns on my skin, even finding humour and positivity in them.

My name is Vanessa Ruck, widely recognized as The Girl On A Bike. I’m a motivational speaker, adventure enthusiast, and content creator dedicated to sharing stories of resilience, extreme sports, and life after trauma. Following a life-altering accident in 2014, I embarked on a journey of recovery from chronic pain and multiple surgeries. Today, I compete in motorcycle endurance events, advocate for mental and physical health, and collaborate with brands that align with my passions. Additionally, I openly share my experiences living with vitiligo to raise awareness and empower others to embrace their uniqueness.

My journey with vitiligo began at the age of 13 when I noticed a small white patch on my chest. Over time, these depigmented areas spread to various parts of my body, including my face, hands, chest, back, and legs. Each new patch presented an emotional challenge, requiring me to continually adapt and find acceptance. Living with vitiligo has taught me to redefine beauty and focus on inner strength. By sharing my experiences, I aim to inspire others to embrace their unique appearances and live confidently.

Living with chronic pain and physical limitations from my injuries is an ongoing challenge. My accident left me with long-term physical restrictions, meaning activities that once seemed simple now require careful planning and adaptation. This has required me to become resourceful and resilient, finding ways to participate in sports and activities I love despite the hurdles.

Vitiligo brings its own challenges. The condition leaves my skin depigmented and vulnerable to sunburn, requiring constant sun protection and skincare attention. Emotionally, living with a visible difference can be tough. Society often emphasizes uniformity in appearance and vitiligo forces you to stand out. When it first spread to my face, I struggled with confidence, finding it difficult to navigate stares and questions from others. Even today, each new patch still requires a cycle of acceptance, but over time I’ve learned to embrace my vitiligo as part of who I am. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and resilience, and while it hasn’t always been easy, I’ve found strength in my ability to adapt and grow.

[Although I have found access to the same opportunities as able-bodied people], they haven’t come without effort. My accident forced me to reevaluate how I approach challenges, and I’ve had to be persistent in seeking out opportunities. In motorsports, for instance, I’ve had to adapt my riding style and gear to accommodate my physical limitations. Despite the challenges, I’ve proven that grit and determination often outweigh physical ability.

With vitiligo, it’s been a journey of self-advocacy. There have been moments of discomfort when societal biases around appearance became apparent, but I’ve learned to use my differences as a platform for positive change. Developing a camouflage process for my face— using sunscreen, fake tan, and makeup—helped me feel more confident in professional settings. Over time, though, I’ve embraced my vitiligo as part of my identity.

By sharing my story openly, I hope to encourage others to fight for their place in the world, regardless of the challenges they face. I want people to know that your differences can become your strengths if you let them.

Riding motorcycles, pushing my limits in extreme sports, and connecting with nature bring me immense joy. There’s a freedom that comes with being on two wheels, challenging yourself to tackle tough terrain, and relying on your resilience to get through it. Sharing my story with others and knowing that I’ve inspired someone to face their own struggles with courage is also deeply fulfilling.

Embracing my vitiligo has brought its own joy. I’ve come to appreciate the unique patterns on my skin, even finding humour and positivity in them. For example, I have a patch on my chest that looks like a dinosaur, and it always makes me smile. Accepting my vitiligo as part of what makes me unique has been an empowering experience.

Time with my family and the excitement of watching it grow also brings unparalleled happiness. Life is full of imperfections, but it’s those very imperfections that make it beautiful.

[In the future,]I want to continue breaking down barriers and proving that physical limitations or visible differences don’t define your potential. My hope is to inspire others through motivational speaking and content creation, sharing my journey to show that it’s possible to thrive even in the face of adversity.

Vitiligo is a key part of my mission. I wish to foster greater understanding and acceptance of visible differences in society, challenging beauty standards and empowering others to embrace their uniqueness. My plan is to publish a book, grow my presence as a speaker, and continue building my platform to amplify my message.

On a personal level, I want to live a life full of purpose, empowering others through my journey and showing that resilience, determination, and self-acceptance are the keys to a fulfilled life. I am a touch nervous about whether my baby will develop vitiligo but I hope that for them, having my skin confidence as a role model will help them love their skin.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in The VisorDown: Adventure bike riders were in large attendance at last month’s ABR festival, with £34,400 raised for British charity, Two Wheels for Life.

Best known for its fundraising auctions and activities that have been present at the British MotoGP event in recent years, Two Wheels for Life was in attendance during last month’s ABR (Adventure Bike Rider) festival at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire, which saw £34,000 raised in support of the lifesaving charity.

Two Wheels for Life provides health care support to the poorest and most remote communities in Africa and received its overwhelming support by members of the public through donations and an auction that was hosted by Vanessa Ruck, better known as The Girl on a Bike, and The Nod Pod host, Ben Bowers.

As is standard with Two Wheels for Life auctions, the lots were a mix of exclusive experiences, while motorcycling gear and memorabilia was donated by the biggest names in the industry.

Some of the highlights included a weeklong trip touring southern India with popular motorcycle adventurer Candida Louis (priced at £3,500), a three-night all-expenses-paid trip to Morocco with the Yamaha Racing Tenere World Raid Rally Team for two people (£3,100), as well as a ⁠⁠VIP MotoGP Experience for two (£2,800), and a spot on the ⁠⁠Triumph Adventure Experience which includes all the necessary kit needed (£2,800).

During the same weekend, Two Wheels for Life was also present as the official charity of MotoGP at the Dutch Grand Prix at Assen. With the weekend being Assen’s historic 100th anniversary, Two Wheels for Life gave 1,000 fans exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the MotoGP paddock and a chance to join the pit-lane walk.

The total raised for Two Wheels for Life at Assen was £54,000, taking the tally between the two events up to £88,400. That’s the equivalent of 63 new Riders for Health motorcycles which will support vital Riders for Health programmes in rural Africa, and help provide reliable transport solutions for health workers in some of the most remote parts of Africa.

Two Wheels for Life CEO & Co-Founder Andrea Coleman said: “It’s wonderful to see such strong support from the adventure bike riding community at our very first auction at the ABR Festival. We are very thankful to the organisers for the opportunity to bring what we do to their adventure rider audience, and we are so pleased to see such an enthusiastic response.”

For the rest of The VisorDown article see here.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in The Superbike News: The Adventure motorcycling community comes together in a show of strength and solidarity at the recent ABR Festival by raising £34,400 to provide health care to the poorest and most remote communities in Africa.

Two Wheels for Life is better known for its fundraising auctions and activities as the official charity of MotoGP™ and the FIM, but last weekend the British based charity hosted an auction at the ABR Festival at Warwickshire’s Ragley Hall in front of over 17,000 adventure bike fans, raising an amazing £34,400 to help its lifesaving charity work.

The money raised at the ABR Festival was a combination of donations and the exciting auction expertly hosted by Vanessa Ruck, better known as The Girl on a Bike and The Nod Pod host, Ben Bowers. As always with Two Wheels for Life auctions, the lots were an incredible mix of exclusive and exciting money-can’t-buy experiences and motorcycling gear and memorabilia donated by the biggest names in the industry.

Highlights included a weeklong trip touring southern India with popular motorcycle adventurer Candida Louis (£3,500), a three-night all-expenses-paid trip to Morocco with Yamaha Racing Ténéré World Raid Rally Team for two people (£3,100), ⁠⁠VIP MotoGP™ Experience for two (£2,800), and a spot on the ⁠⁠Triumph Adventure Experience plus all the kit you need (£2,800).

During the same weekend, Two Wheels for Life was also busy in its capacity as the official charity of MotoGP™ at the Motul Grand Prix of the Netherlands held at the iconic TT Circuit Assen.

To celebrate Assen’s historic 100th anniversary, Two Wheels for Life made it possible for up to 1,000 fans to enjoy exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the MotoGP™ paddock and a chance to join the pit-lane walk. In addition, two charity auctions, featuring MotoGP™’s biggest stars and offering unique memorabilia, signed kit, and exclusive racing experiences featured on the Thursday and Saturday nights.

The total raised for Two Wheels for Life at Assen was an incredible £54,000. The most popular auction lots were a course car ride (€1,400), MotoGP™ grid passes (€1,300), Marc Marquez boots signed by the eight-time world champion and current championship leader (€900), signed Pecco Bagnaia boots (€800), and a Deniz Öncü visor (€800).

All £88,400 raised from Two Wheels for Life’s activity at both the ABR Festival and the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix – the equivalent of 63 new Riders for Health motorcycles – will support vital Riders for Health programmes in rural Africa, helping provide reliable transport solutions for health workers in some of the most remote parts of Africa.

From delivering vaccines via motorcycles to the hardest-to-reach communities, to providing vital maternal care, the programmes Two Wheels for Life support work to ensure lifesaving care reaches those who need it most.

Two Wheels for Life CEO & Co-Founder Andrea Coleman said:

“It’s wonderful to see such strong support from the adventure bike riding community at our very first auction at the ABR Festival. We are very thankful to the organisers for the opportunity to bring what we do to their adventure rider audience, and we are so pleased to see such an enthusiastic response.

“The Motul Grand Prix of the Netherlands was another fantastic result. The Paddock Experience and pit lane walk were huge successes, and the auctions offered fans the chance to bid for ‘money can’t buy’ experiences and memorabilia. We are grateful to Dorna, TT Circuit Assen, the teams and riders who bring these incredible items, as well as their energy and enthusiasm that makes the auctions such special occasions.”

The charity’s summer activities don’t end there. Two Wheels for Life will return to Prosecco DOC UK Round of WorldSBK at Donington Park on 11th-13th July, with another auction, this time hosted by long-time charity ambassador Michael Hill who will also present a “WorldSBK’s Got Talent” concert, featuring stars of the sport signing their hearts out to raise money for Two Wheels for Life.

Next the charity will be at the Malle Mile at Grimsthorpe Castle,  Lincolnshire 18th – 20th July, bringing motorcycle themed fairground fun, plus an auction to this great, and very stylish motorcycle festival.

August 16th will then see Two Wheels for Life’s “The Big Ride” take place at Mallory Park Circuit Festival Motorcycling – a fun filled ride out with challenges to complete along the route, track action and much more. Full details and tickets can be found here: www.twowheelsforlife.org/news-listing/new-big-ride

For the rest of The Superbike News article see here.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in The ABR Festival: Are You Craving A More Adventurous Life On Two Wheels? Then Look No Further Because David Lloyd And A Selection Of ABR Festival Speakers Reveal How You Can Do Just That With A Simple New Year’s Resolution.

Use GOAB10 for £10 off your ABR Festival tickets https://www.abrfestival.com/tickets/

Are you tired of making the same old New Year’s resolutions that are doomed to failure? Lose weight, exercise more, drink less, blah, blah, blah… But what if instead you resolved to make 2025 your most adventurous year yet? And even better, what if I told you there is a guaranteed way to achieve it? Sounds too good to be true, right? But it isn’t.

So step off the scales, bin the pedometer, and crack open another beer, because it’s time to make 2025 your year of adventure by joining us at the ABR Festival in June. That’s right, snapping up a ticket to the greatest celebration of motorcycling in the world is your key to fulfilling your adventure biking dreams in 2025 and beyond.

GET INSPIRED

Trust me when I say, if your New Year’s resolution is to make 2025 your most adventurous year yet, there is no better place to be. Just be aware that festival attendance may result in your jaw becoming more chiselled, a veneer of trail dust could appear on your clothes at any time, and you won’t be able to resist striking heroic poses, be it in the queue for the Post Office or at a border crossing.

We’ll be revealing the full lineup of ABR Festival speakers soon, but in the meantime, we reached out to a select few to ask what their resolutions are for the New Year. Here’s what they said…

VANESSA RUCK (THE GIRL ON A BIKE), ADVENTURER, RACER AND CONTENT CREATOR
“For 2025, my New Year’s resolution is centred around embracing the exciting transition into motherhood while continuing to live boldly and authentically as an adventure biker and racer. I want to show our little Ruckymonster that women can be unstoppable, and that we can be mothers and racers, explorers, and boundary-breakers.

COME AND JOIN US AT THE ABR FESTIVAL 2025
So, why not make your New Year’s resolution to come and join us at the ABR Festival and help make 2025 your most adventurous year yet? Unlike a commitment to a healthier lifestyle, it can be accomplished in minutes. Where weight loss demands toil and discipline, your ticket purchase requires minimal effort.

Get your tickets today at www.abrfestival.com.

As seen in Pick Me Up!: Clipping my helmet into place as I left the office, I felt a weight lift off my shoulders. I’d had a busy day, but I was ready to hit the road.

Jumping on my pedal bike, as the wind hit my face all my stress melted away.

I’d always been active and exercise was a huge part of my life. My weekends were filled with road trips, kite surfing, mountain biking and climbing. I cycled the 16-mile round trip to work every day, hit the gym at lunchtime, then liked to get out onto the water in the evening when I could, too.

And that day, a glorious spring evening in March 2014, I left work and headed off on the eight-mile ride to a lake just outside of central Oxford for a spot of wakeboarding. Coming out of the city, I headed a mile down the road – and as the traffic light ahead of me turned green, I pedalled hard to keep momentum. But as I sailed through, a car came out of nowhere, cutting across my path. It must have skipped a red light. And before I knew what was happening, I felt my body crumple as I smashed into the rear passenger door at 15mph. It felt like hitting a wall.

Screaming as I fell to the ground, one of my feet was stuck on the pedal thanks to my cycling cleats, while my other foot had come out of the shoe and my leg splayed out under the bike.

‘Help!’ I shouted out.

‘Are you OK?’ a stranger asked, rushing over to me.

In a daze, I tried to take in my surroundings. Trapped under the bike, I realised I couldn’t move as pain shot through me.

The traffic noises around me started to fade as people helped lift my bike off me, and passers-by who’d stopped to help shuffled me to the kerb.

Thankfully once the initial shock had subsided, I seemed to be mostly OK, apart from a few scrapes and bruises – although my right arm was in a lot of pain.

One of the people who’d stopped to help called an ambulance, while I called my husband Alex, 37, as the police showed up, too.

‘I’ve been in an accident,’ I told him, my voice trembling.

Alex met me at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford half an hour later, where the extent of my injuries became clear. My finger was dislocated, my right shoulder had doubled in size and my hip was damaged, too.

‘Get some rest, you should be fine,’ doctors said, discharging me after a few hours.

Back at home I was completely exhausted but in good spirits.

‘I was lucky,’ I said to Alex – I was confident that with a bit of rest I’d be fine and back out cycling, wakeboarding and climbing again in no time.

The thought of cycling on a road again was scary after what I’d been through, but I refused to let that stop me.

But as the weeks passed, if anything the pain got worse.

I assumed it was just the bruising and swelling.

These things take time, I told myself. But I couldn’t help thinking that something bigger was wrong.

And after two months of steroid injections to help the pain, I was referred to a specialist who discovered that my shoulder was dislocated.

I underwent full reconstructive surgery in April 2015 and I knew I faced a daunting recovery – but I was prepared to do whatever it took to get back on my feet.

I couldn’t help thinking something was wrong
And a few months post-op, I decided to buy a motorbike to commute to work as I was still unable to cycle.

I was terrified, but I knew I had to overcome my fear of being on the roads.

‘I don’t think I can do this,’ I said to Alex as I straddled the bike on our driveway.

But as I gently revved the engine and eased off the drive, I felt a rush of adrenaline. The motorbike gave me the adventure I craved, without pushing my physical limitations too far.

I spent the next year slowly trying to build my strength up and get my life back, and for Alex and me, motorbiking became our new hobby.

But in April 2016, I was devastated to discover I needed hip surgery. It had been causing me a lot of pain, and doctors discovered it was more badly damaged than they’d first realised.

I underwent a seven-hour operation at Cambridge Spire Hospital to fix my joint, ligament and cartilage.

Life as I knew it came to a halt – again. I became dependent on Alex for basic tasks, and I had to learn how to walk all over again.

For someone who’d always been so fit and active, I really struggled. It had been over two years since the accident, and at times it felt like I was going backwards – but I was determined to get back to my old self again.

‘Please can I have a dirt bike?’ I spontaneously said to Alex one morning.

‘If that’s what you want,’ he replied, grinning excitedly. I’d never ridden a dirt bike, but I loved to ride motorcycles, so I was excited to give it a go.

Of course, I had to wait to be mobile enough post-surgery, but we started the hunt and found a great beginner’s bike.

And I was over the moon to see it sat on our driveway a few days later.

Five months later, in September 2016, I was able to steadily ride my dirt bike near to home.

It was completely blissful. I was only going slowly, but it was enough to give me a glimpse of my old life.

But there was a niggling feeling in my hip, and eventually I couldn’t ignore it any longer.

After a private scan, I was devastated to discover that my previous surgery had broken down and I had shrapnel in my hip.

My whole world fell apart when doctors broke the news that I needed yet another operation.

Over the next four years, I underwent four more surgeries to fix my hip and it felt like I was constantly doing physio.

I was craving off-road racing, but I couldn’t take the risk with the damage to my hip.

I spent countless nights in my garage just practising and strengthening my core by doing squats and lunges.

Eventually, I mastered a lot of balancing techniques on my dirt bike, and Alex and I were both so proud of how far I had come. I even started riding again tentatively, too.

‘I’m starting to feel like me again,’ I whispered to myself happily.

And the more I rode my dirt bike and the more I got my confidence back, the more I realised how much I loved it – and how good I was at it.

So in 2020, I took the plunge and competed in my first off-road race.

It was exhilarating – zooming around on off-road courses like gravel, mud or grassy roads. Over the next few years, I entered more competitions and I fell more and more in love with the sport.

In a twisted way, I’m grateful for the accident
And in February 2024, I completed my most challenging race yet – an extreme 13-day race from Nador in Morocco to Dakar in Senegal, nearly 3,500km.

Afterwards I was absolutely shattered and every muscle in my body was tired.

But it was definitely my biggest accomplishment outside of my recovery.

I’m the first British female to ever finish this event, and I’m proof that a bad accident doesn’t define you.

The past 10 years have been a rollercoaster ride for me, but without the accident I wouldn’t have found my new favourite sport or achieved any of the amazing things I have.

So in a strange, almost twisted way, I’m grateful for it.

It was hands-down the worst thing that’s ever happened to me, but it’s taught me strength and resilience.

If I can overcome that, I can overcome anything.

Now, with a collection of nine bikes, I’m on a mission to inspire other women to join me on the track.

You can do anything you put your mind to – don’t let fear hold you back.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in Two Wheels For Life: Goodwood Festival of Speed saw an army of volunteers join stars from the world of motorycle racing at this landmark event for the charity.

Two Wheels for Life enjoyed a fantastic four days at Goodwood Festival of Speed as the event’s official charity partner, raising over £100k for the charity from donations at the VIP dinner, at the stand and from collectors around the site.

Ambassador Vanessa Ruck (The Girl on a Bike) joined us on the stand introducing the crowds to what we do alongside our amazing crew of volunteers.

Left to to Right, Alessandro Botturi, Andrea Coleman, Randy Mamola, Pol Tarrés, Kenny Roberts Snr., Vanessa Ruck

The event also saw a very special moment as co-founder and MotoGP™ legend Randy Mamola rode up the iconic Goodwood hill with long time Two Wheels supporter ‘King’ Kenny Roberts and new ambassadors Ténéré World Raid team riders Pol Tarrés and Alessandro Botturi. Two Wheels CEO Andrea Coleman joined the commentary box to talk about the charity on the Goodwood FOS live TV feed!

Thank you to everyone who stopped by, donated and spent time finding out more and supporting our life-saving work. All funds raised will be used to support transport for healthcare programmes in Lesotho, Malawi, Nigeria and The Gambia, getting vital services to vulnerable communities who desperately need it.

“Being invited to be the official charity of Goodwood Festival of Speed was a dream come true. Seeing new ambassadors, Yamaha riders Pol Tarrés and Alessandro Botturi ride the Hill Climb with co-founder and MotoGP legend Randy Mamola and long time supporter King Kenny Roberts was a special moment that illustrated how the great things we have achieved have always been made possible with the support of the world of motorsport.” – Zoë Herron Coleman – head of partnerships and communications, Two Wheels for Life

For the rest of The TwoWheelsforLife article see here.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in The Advrider: Adventurer, motorcycle enthusiast, and rally racer Vanessa Ruck (better known as The Girl On a Bike) has recently returned from an epic eight-day journey through the Indian Himalayas aboard Royal Enfields.

But while the towering peaks of the mountains, plunging valleys, and pristine military roads along with dusty dirt trails provided the perfect playground for a motorcycle adventure of a lifetime, the trip has tested Vanessa and her crew’s limits.

Navigating massive landslides, braving a blizzard on the Shinkula Top pass, and squeezing their bikes through a traffic jam so enormous the army had to step in, Vanessa and her crew reveled in the stunning scenery from the turquoise waters of Pangong Tso to the vast expanse of the Tso Kar salt flats, encountering wild horses, donkeys, and even a few shaggy goats along the way.

But it wasn’t just the mind-blowing beauty of the Himalayas that took their breath away – riding the highest mountain passes in the world, altitude sickness is no joke.

“Altitude was one the biggest challenges on this trip. Honestly, riding the Himalayas was probably one of the most brutal adventures I’ve taken on, outside of desert racing. Long, 11-hour days on the bikes, gnarly terrain, remote places – it’s nothing like the Alps or the Pyrenees where, if something goes wrong, you can get help quickly. In the Himalayas, you’re out in a very unforgiving environment, and the altitude is a big part of that,” Vanessa shares.

So how do you deal with altitude of over 19,000 feet while traveling on two wheels? Here are some of Vanessa’s tips to ward off altitude sickness when riding on the roof of the world:

Acclimatize Gradually

According to Vanessa, there was no time to acclimatize as she and her team landed in Leh, India: the city is situated over 11,000 feet above sea level. “We immediately noticed that the air was thinner; just getting out of the airport and carrying our bags and gear, we were out of breath, so we wondered how we would do at 19,000 feet,” Vanessa recalls.

“Luckily, Royal Enfield offered us some solid guidance: first off, we spent a couple of days in Leh, drank plenty of water, and let our bodies adapt to lower oxygen levels.”

Carry oxygen cylinders

Vanessa and her team equipped themselves with portable oxygen tanks before starting the ride. These are widely available at local pharmacies and can be a lifesaver: a quick inhale provides a boost of oxygen when needed.

“Although my body adapted to high altitudes quite well, there was a moment when we were stuck in a massive traffic jam at 18,000 ft altitude. I tried to push snow out of the way to make room for us to squeeze through, and because of the exertion, I started to feel out of breath and dizzy; that’s where the oxygen cylinder really came in handy,” Vanessa explains.

Plan a gradual ascent

Another crucial tip is to avoid aiming for the highest pass on the first day and try to ascend and descend alternately to help your body adjust. “Ride progressively – don’t just aim for the highest pass immediately. Ideally, it’s best to climb, then descend, then climb again; this helps your body to adjust more effectively. Increasing and decreasing your altitude is key.”

Limit time at high altitudes

“When you’re on the really high passes, be mindful of how long you spend there. When we got to 19,000 feet altitude and up, we tried to only spend 15-20 minutes there, then get going – spending too much time at very high altitudes can be dangerous.”

Recognize the signs of altitude sickness

“Along the way, we met a group of travelers and later heard that one of them ended up in hospital because of altitude sickness. He was in a pretty bad shape, and it took him over a week to recover. It’s so important to recognize the signs early – if you start feeling nauseous, dizzy, and out of breath, take a hit of that rich oxygen from your tank!”

Monitor oxygen levels

According to Vanessa, clinics in the Himalayas offer to measure your oxygen saturation; if you’re worried about altitude sickness, it’s a good idea to measure your oxygen levels for a peace of mind – and safety.

Listen to your body

Finally, Vanessa suggests listening to your body – and not trying to be a hero.

“If you don’t feel well, don’t pretend that you’re fine and don’t push yourself – that will only get you further into trouble. Practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing, utilize your oxygen tank, and, if necessary, just descend. At and over 19,000 feet, the oxygen levels are just 50 percent of what they are at sea level; just for perspective, some of the Himalayan passes are higher than Everest Base camp – so while utterly spectacular, it can be dangerous if you ignore your body,” Vanessa says.

For the rest of The Advrider article see here.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

As seen in The MCN: During the pandemic, biker and filmmaker Tom Woodrow decided to put down his lens and chase another dream – creating a biker cafe and events space.

“We make Adventure Bike TV and Motorbike TV, and we’ve also done ‘Dakar Dreams’ with Danny John-Jules” says Tom. “But I’ve always fancied doing something like this. Our coffee is all from a local roaster. We did a blind taste test of 20 when we opened, and everyone picked this one! It’s a real nice exclusive for us.”

And if you’re a local, the best part is you can become a Woodrow’s member for free drinks, free events, and access to a chilled-out exclusive area.
Elsewhere inside, there is plenty of bike kit on sale featuring the likes of Merlin, Rukka, MotoGirl and more, a barber taking bookings from Thursday to Saturday. But it’s the stacked events calendar of which Tom is most proud.

“During the winter we do ‘evening with’ events and invite people like Charlie Boorman, Vanessa Ruck, and the Sidecar Guys. We play some games too – there’s one where the guest has to answer questions with one-word answers while they draw their bikes. In the toilets there are loads of what look like kids drawings… they are our guests drawings!”

Woodrow’s host two bike nights a month complete with live music, RoSPA meets and more.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding, Harleys and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life-changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.