As seen in Moto gusto: Vanessa Ruck, also known as “The Girl On A Cycle,” started her motorcycle voyage in the Bahamas, not in the UK, where she rode around the island while toting a spear for fishing.

When Vanessa returned to the UK motorcycles became a fond memory. In 2014 whilst riding her push bike to work, a car jumped a red light causing her to crash and damage her right shoulder and hip. Unfortunately, these injuries were somewhat overlooked and dismissed as bruising and later turned out to be a lot more serious resulting in 7 surgeries over the years.

Shortly after Vanessa’s accident the realisation of a motorcycle being a missing element to life took hold and as soon as she was able to she bought a Suzuki Bandit 600. After riding for some time, as a belated anniversary present for her husband’s return from military service overseas, Vanessa organised a day out with two Harley Davidsons. By the end of that day, it was decided unanimously that it was far better to cruise on the Harley than the bandit. This bike was bought by the couple and named ‘Thug’. Vanessa warmly describes it as “a sofa on wheels’’.

Always light at the end of the tunnel

Vanessa’s accident helped to forge a solid passion for motorcycles. For many,  seven surgeries would deter from pursuing a life of extreme sports and getting out and muddy on two wheels. But Vanessa’s mindset of being in a long tunnel with a light at the end has enabled her to overcome any physical or mental setbacks. Combining her passion for the outdoors and motorcycling Vanessa has now competed in some races in the UK Enduro and some trials riding. At this point, I’m wondering what could be next for Vanessa as no signs of slowing down are on the horizon.

The long road to recovery

Throughout Vanessa’s recovery, she has had two body parts reconstructed several times. The physical and mental strain and hardship this brings are phenomenal and out of this “The Girl On A Bike” was born! Never looking back and focused on enjoying daily life to the fullest Vanessa has become a true inspiration. Make sure to get onto her website and social media accounts. Read her story in full and be witness to Vanessa’s incredible determination and self-belief – with time and patience, I knew I would get back to riding-only I had the power to make it happen and hard work pays off”.

For the rest of the Moto Gusto 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 Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.