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Is methane the future power for motorcycles? Goodbye electric 

Is methane the future power for motorcycles? Goodbye electric  

Everyone is talking about electric power being the future mobility solution and after having the chance to drive the world’s first methane powered tractor I can’t help but wonder if there might be another option for the future power of motorcycles.

The Girl on a bike methane motorcycles
The Girl on a bike methane motorcycles
The Girl on a bike methane motorcycles 1

In this video I’ll talk through some of the key technologies, facts and considerations for using methane as a fuel source.

Goodbye electric

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1wb92A5JWU

During my learning experience with New Holland and Michelin it really got me thinking. Could the methane waste from our agricultural industry be a future fuel source? Can we use it for motorcycles, cars and other machinery? Could we be saying goodbye electric? Its an interesting one…

Whilst I was with Michelin I found out some interesting ways to improve your performance and save money on tyres. See the full video here:

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com 

Features Latest content Reviews

BMW GS review 1250 vs 850 

BMW GS review 1250 vs 850 

The BMW GS.. What can only be described as a cult, there appears to be either lovers or haters. I decided it was about time to form my own opinion and test ride and review the GS 1250 and 850.

IMG 5746
The Girl on a bike BMW 2

The BMW GS.. What can only be described as a cult, there appears to be either lovers or haters, I decided it was about time to form my own opinion on the BMW GS and get my butt on the seat and test ride the infamous GS. But I decided to go one step further and try both the 1250 and 850 side by side so I could form a more versatile opinion on the pros and cons of not just one, but two BMW GS adventure motorcycles.

In this video I will share my thoughts on the two BMW GS motorcycles after exploring the stunning scenery around Malaga in Southern Spain with a girlfriend Anika, and why after around 1000kms of riding I question… Why would you buy the 850?

So what is all the fuss about, watch here and find out

We hired the BMW GS motorcycles from Moto Hire Spain near Malaga and they were in excellent condition and running Michelin rubber, so it was a solid start. But after 5 days of riding and swapping between the BMW GS 1250 and the 850 it was quite easy for me to see some of the major differences in these bikes.

Some of the key comparisons are:

BMW GS R1250:BMW GS F850:
Boxer engineParallel twin engine
Variable valve timing system
136hp90hp
Shaft driveChain drive
243kg223kg
Tele lever front suspensionStandard suspension
Hydraulic clutchMechanical clutch

If you would like to see our 5 day adventure around Malaga you can watch it here:

I’ve got extensive experience on a range of adventure bikes so if you’d like to see the rivals here you go:

The Africa Twin Takes on Iceland: A Brutal Real-Life Review:

Yamaha Tenere 700 Technical Review – Sardinia:

Harley-Davidson Pan America Off Road Review – Wales:

Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 1000 Dunas series:

I’ve also ridden KTMs, Ducati’s and so many more but not yet filmed reviews.

More information on Moto Hire Spain:

https://motohirespain.com/

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com 

Bikes Features Latest content Reviews

Honda Africa Twin DCT review

Honda Africa Twin DCT review

I’ve put the Honda Africa Twin DCT to the ultimate test, I’ll provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences from my 2200 km expedition across Iceland and share a with you a detailed review.

After clocking over 2200km on this beast, I’ve put the Africa Twin DCT to the ultimate test, I’ll provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences from my 2200 km expedition. Discover the pros and cons of this powerful beast in my detailed review, exploring its impressive user interface and breaking down the technical aspects of its controls.

Watch the full Honda Africa Twin review here

Prepare to be amazed as I delve into the height adjustable seat, sharing how it enhances both comfort and control. Experience the weight of the Honda Africa Twin DCT firsthand, feeling its perfect balance and maneuverability in challenging conditions. You’ll learn how the cleverly positioned fuel tank height boosts your confidence on every ride.

The girl on a bike

Keep an eye out for a fascinating revelation about turning on the indicators three times at an average junction. Plus, I express my sincere appreciation for the heated grips, a game-changer in cold weather riding. Discover the drop-resistant frame and high-quality materials that ensure durability and reliability, even in the face of rough terrain.

Dive deep into the heart of this beast with an inside look of the Honda Africa Twin and its powerful 1100cc engine, unleashing an exhilarating ride like no other. And don’t miss my insights on the smooth and responsive Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) system, elevating your riding experience to new heights.

As a bonus treat, I’ll also share four essential techniques to confidently pick up any bike, ensuring you’re always ready for any adventure that comes your way.

This is part 5 of my Honda experience across Iceland so please do check out the rest of the series:

Part 1: The Africa Twin Takes on Iceland

Part 2: Iceland’s Toughest Challenges Yet – Africa Twin Takes on Iceland’s Unforgiving Terrain

Part 3: Four ways to pick up a heavy motorcycle. Guaranteed Success

Part 4: Conquering Iceland’s Extreme Terrain – Africa Twin’s Epic Finale

For more information on the Honda Adventure roads see: https://linktr.ee/hondaadventureroads…

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn  , Whatsapp and YouTube,and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Features Latest content Motorsports Motorsports Media

What is the Land Rover Bowler Defender

What is the Land Rover Bowler Defender

RallyNuts Stages April 23

Introducing the Land Rover Bowler Defender rally car.

In the rally world, the Bowler Wildcat has been a car to reckon with for years. But there is a new car on the block and in this video, I’ll talk you through what a Land Rover Bowler Defender rally car is and how it varies from the base model Land Rover Defender 90. The Defender rally car is a 300hp monster!

The Girl on a bike Land rover bowler defender rally car
The Girl on a bike Land rover bowler defender rally car 1

See what the Bowler Defender Rally Car is all about

Key Bowler Defender rally car conversion specifications:

  • Land Rover Defender 90 P300 SE
  • Engine 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo petrol
  • Power/torque 296bhp/400Nm
  • Transmission Eight-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
  • 0-60mph 6.7 seconds
  • Top speed 119mph (limited when in Bowler Mode)
  • Economy 24.6mpg
  • Fuel Capacity 90 litres
  • Weight 2,065kg
  • Monocoque bracing and full internal roll cage
  • Internal spare wheel mount integrated to roll cage and rally jacking points Performance
  • Improved cooling – auxiliary radiators removed and increased airflow to main radiator
  • Sports exhaust system
  • Bowler 18” wheels with increased strength
  • BFGoodrich AT tyres
  • Bespoke suspension design with modified subframes, new springs and unique turrets for increased stiffness
  • Bespoke Foxracing dampers
  • Race steering wheel with quick release boss Electrical/systems
  • ECU system integration with race box
  • ABS/DSC – rally control modifications
  • Navigator control unit for lights/washer/horn
  • Cobra race sports seats with 6-point race harness suitable for use with Simpson hans devise and Stilo helmet
  • Integrated and hand-held fire suppression
  • Electrical cut-off switches – internal and external

If you missed it, you can see me crash the Land Rover Bowler Defender here:

For more details on the Land Rover Bowler rally series head to: https://www.bowlermotors.com/bowler-defender-challenge/bowler-defender-challenge-car-specification/

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn  , Whatsapp and YouTube,and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Features Latest content Tips

How to make new motorcycle friends

How to make new motorcycle friends

Discover the joys of group motorcycle adventures and how to make new friends! Learn the benefits of pre-organized rides and tours here.

The girl on a bike Motorcycle friends 2
The girl on a bike Motorcycle friends

Wondering how to make new motorcycle friends? Thinking about going on a group ride? After having been on group adventure motorcycle rides in over 15 countries I thought I would share my thoughts on why I highly recommend looking into pre-organized group rides, and how you can make new motorcycle friends.

In this video, I will also discuss some of the pros and cons such as:

  • Time
  • Admin
  • Experience
  • Legalities
  • Meeting new people
  • Riding different motorcycles

Watch why I love group motorcycle tours and making new friends

If you are not sure where to start but you want to meet new motorcycle friends or try a group adventure tour check out some of the videos from the group tour adventures I have been on and can highly recommend:

Tour1 – The wonders of New Zealand

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J94WFpjBJ9A&t=0s

Tour Enduro Sardegna, Sardinia

Big Little Rides [womens only] – 9 women take on Belize

Toro Trail, Spain – I flipped it

Altitude with Attitude – European Harley Davidson Road Trip

Ride with Locals, Iceland – Offroad experience

Superior Motorcycle Experiences, UK

Novo Adventures, Bolivia – Riding death road

Enduro Dreamland, Ukraine – Snow riding

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn  , Whatsapp and YouTube,and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Bikes Features Latest content Reviews

KTM 450 RFR Rally Replica Full Review

KTM 450 RFR Rally Replica Full Review

Is the KTM 450 RFR Rally Replica the ultimate rally bike? With a huge price tag of over £32,000 it’s a lot of money but is it worth it? In this video, which is part of my 6 part Morocco Desert Challenge series, I will run through all my thoughts on this bike and why I think it’s quite possibly the best bike I’ve ever ridden!

The Girl on a Bike Ktm
KTM Bike review the girl on a bike

Watch the full video – Is KTM Rally Replica worth the price?

Key modifications that I have done on the KTM 450 rally bike:

  • K-Tech Suspension set for my weight Michelin Motorcycle desert bib mousse and tyres to ensure zero punctures
  • Caulfield Leather custom seat for a happy Vanessa bottom
  • Talon Engineering Ltd custom wheels
  • And my own personalised graphics designed by me
  • Custom tool kit hidden under the seat Teng Tools with my emergency flare
  • Weighing in at 175kg he is a beast in the dunes but he’s like a glove for the desert.

Don’t forget to watch the rest of my Morocco Desert series:

For reference this is a comparison based on my experience racing other events on a range of bikes including, KTM 450 enduro cup, Beta 480 with rally nav tower kit, KTM 450 with rally nav tower, Honda CRF 450 RX enduro cup, big adventures bikes such as Tiger 900, Tenere 700, Husqvarna 701, Africa Twin, Husky 500.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, Whatsapp and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Bikes Features Latest content Reviews

Honda XRE Review – the ‘baby’ Africa Twin

Honda XRE Review – the ‘baby’ Africa Twin

Join me for an in-depth review of the Honda XRE, the 291CC miniature Africa Twin that accompanied me on my 10-day adventure in Colombia

In this video, I share my thoughts and experiences riding this confident bike through various terrains. Discover what makes the Honda XRE a standout choice, and why I think it could be the baby Africa Twin, as I delve into its features and specifications.

The Girl on a bike Honda XRE review
The Girl on a bike Honda XRE review

From its height and riding posture to the practicality of luggage bags for off-roading, we cover it all. Learn about the power, protection, ground clearance, suspension, and wheel size that contribute to the XRE’s performance.

Watch the Honda XRE Review here

I also provide insights into the usefulness of luggage racks and demonstrate how to lift the Honda XRE. And if you’ve ever wondered why Honda launched the XRE exclusively in Latin America, I’ll address that too. Whether you’re considering this bike or simply curious about its capabilities, this review will provide valuable insights.

Watch the full video to get all the details and make an informed decision.

Don’t forget to watch the rest of my Colombia adventure series:

Part 1: Group of girls brave Colombia on motorcycles

Part 2: There’s more to Colombia than drug cartels… here’s why you should go

Part 3: Colombian back roads and mental river crossing – girls adventure motorcycle riding

Big thanks to Big Little Rides for getting 9 ladies from 6 countries together for a Colombian adventure! https://www.biglittlerides.com/

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn ,YouTube, Whatsapp and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Latest content Travel

The Wonders Of New Zealand by motorcycle

The Wonders Of New Zealand by motorcycle

I can understand why New Zealand by motorcycle is a bucket list destination.
Join me in this multi episode series as I tour the incredible South Island on a Harley-Davidson Road Glide. I’d say “what happens on tour stays on tour”… But not with me

3000 miles around New Zealand’s beautiful South Island with my best friend Emma Wolstenholme, the epic organisation of Tour1 Gary France, and amazing group of Harley-Davidson riders. From the scenery to the roads, the landscapes to the hotels, it’s been incredible. It’s been a wild adventure with landslides, extreme weather, seals and flat track, to gondolas and unicorns.

When things go wrong… that’s when the real adventure starts right?! New Zealand was facing some extreme weather resulting in multiple landslides, power lines down and totally cut off roads, so we ended up stranded on the north west coastline, penned in by nature’s disruptions. Thankfully Tour1 sorted new hotels for the group and eventually, 24 hours later we got back on track taking an alternative route around the island. The rain and flooding was mental. 400mm in just a day!

More information on Tour1: https://www.tour1.com/

Make sure you check out all the videos in the series:

Part 1: When your breath gets taken away but you’re not even racing The wonders of New Zealand

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J94WFpjBJ9A&t=276s

Road Glide Review:

Part 2: Girls on tour… New Zealand and why it’s a bucket list motorcycle destination

Why I like Group Tours:

Part 3: Burt Munro, lake dips, Lindis pass and so much more – the final leg in New Zealand

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, Whatsapp and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Features Latest content Tips

How to protect your bum on a motorcycle to avoid monkey butt

How to protect your bum on a motorcycle – anti monkey butt

Here are my top tips on how to protect your bum to avoid monkey butt on a motorcycle based on my experience from extreme long distance endure desert rally’s

Watch the full video – Why does no one talk about this, how to avoid monkey butt

How to protect your bum and prevent monkey butt on a motorcycle is a big topic but one that no one seems to talk about. In this video I am going to share my top tips built from my experience of doing extreme long distance endurance desert rally’s and how to keep your bum and genitals happy on a motorcycle. These tips vary in their cost, but for the ultimate effect I recommend all 5.

Top tips for bum comfort and monkey butt prevention on a motorcycle:

  1. Custom motorcycle seat for improved comfort – my seat is by Caulfield Leather https://www.caulfieldleather.co.uk/ it is worth noting they will do any motorcycle seat from street bike cruiser, adv, you send them your seat and they will re foam, gel and upholster it
  2. Anti chaff cream. Designed to reduce friction, monkey butt and also help control bacteria that is apparent with high levels of sweat you would anticipate when doing extreme sports – https://amzn.to/3EN6rjJ this is the same cream used by professional cycling athletes
  3. If you get sore both on your bum and your lips, use Germolene. My top rally hack tip is Germolene on your lips instead of any kind of lip solve. It is an antiseptic and antibiotic cream that helps cracked skin, so it is amazing for your lips or sore bum – https://amzn.to/3PwowaK
  4. Sweat wicking seamless cycling impact shorts. The key is to make sure they are a seamless technical layer, you do not want to wear cotton on a motorcycle ever, due to its ability to hold and store moisture which will ultimately lead to chafe. Also, the added padding of cycling shorts supports with the fatigue on your saddle
  5. Technical base layers. Depending on the temperature of the riding conditions you are in you want to make sure you are wearing the correct base layers on your skin. These should be sweat wicking and temperature appropriate to your environment. It may seem slightly counter intuitive but having full length base layers even when in a 52-degree desert race will still keep you cooler than having other materials on your skin due to the moisture wicking technology. I do wear my impact shorts underneath my base layers to prevent chafe from the material pattern of the technical layers being on your skin. I am a big fan of the Alpinestars base layers to help with monkey butt
the girl on a bike monkey butt

Hopefully this gives you a few tips to help keep your bottom from becoming a monkey butt and keep you comfortable on longer motorcycle rides, whilst I am talking about this in an intense enduro race environment these tips will still work for your usual everyday touring conditions.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Bikes Latest content Reviews Tips Travel

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Review

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Review

I think it’s safe to say the Road Glide has become my favourite Harley-Davidson.

With the world to explore finding the right touring bike can be a challenge, so in this review video I’ll share my experience riding the Harley-Davidson Road Glide around New Zealand with Tour1. The organised tour took us on several thousand kilometres of road through the wonders of the South Island in both the pouring rain and glorious sunshine.

I’ve ridden many other Harley’s before and have a Street Bob 2015 in my own garage… but I think it’s safe to say the Road Glide, especially in this light popping red paint, has become my favourite Harley-Davidson.

From its poised stance with the shark fairing, to it’s amble power, insanely comfortable seating position, pillion comfort and great touring features, the Road Glide has won me over.

Check out the video below for more details, including hearing the sound of the Milwaukee engine.

This video is part of a multi episode series of my Tour1 New Zealand Harley Road Glide adventure so make sure you check out the other videos in the series:

Part 1: When your breath gets taken away but …  

https://youtu.be/J94WFpjBJ9A

Part 2: Girls on tour… New Zealand and why ..

Part 3: Burt Munro, lake dips, Lindis pass and so much more – th

Why I like group tours: How to make new motorcycle friends

Tips for riding in a group:

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding 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 Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com