The following is an interview with biker Tanja Brechenmacher from Gauteng, South Africa. This is part of a series of interviews with female bikers around the world. Each woman was asked general questions about herself and her interests as well as about challenges they face as a female biker.
What is your name, age & current occupation?
Tanja Brechenmacher, 27, Software Developer
When did you first fall in love with bikes?
I have loved bikes ever since I can remember¦ cannot remember the time I did not love bikes¦
Do you remember your first ride?
It was very exciting¦ my parents just bought me my first bike and I had to learn to ride it¦ It was nerve wrecking though¦ I was 13 years old¦
What was the first bike you owned?
I had a very old 200c bright yellow Vespa Scooter¦ it wasn’t much¦ but I loved it!
Do you race or do you just ride for fun?
I just ride for fun and fellowship¦
What is the hardest thing about being female & being a biker?
Non-bikers think you are weird and sometimes disrespect you because you ride a bike¦ But that’s not all of them¦ Most people admire it!
What kinds of challenges do you face while riding?
Taxi’s and non-observant drivers
What lessons have you learned while pursuing your dream?
That the bike is my boss and I can never forget that! I always show respect to my baby¦
What advice do you have for young girls who want to ride?
Get lessons¦ professional training!
What was your happiest moment?
The day I rode my brand new GSX-R600 off the showroom floor!
**Special thanks to Ben at my2wheels.co.za for hooking me up with these interviews!
1 comment
Hanneke van Niekerk
Tanja’s lessons she has learnt and advice to younder girls shows a lot of wisdom. I also have a GSXR600 (identical to Tanja’s) and maintain that as long as you treat this maching with respect it will return the favour. I also went for professional training. Without it I simply wouldn’t be able to ride it at more than 70% of it’s capacity. By the way, I’m 41 and only got my bike October 2006 (which shows you’re never too old to start). And while speed is no problem, the weight of the bike is. It’s a constant battle to keep from falling over when stopping suddenly.
It’s good to know another lady Gixxer and I wish her many wonderful and safe hours on her bike.