Fast Babes Featured Rider: @sam.ray.m

Name: Samantha

Instagram: @sam.ray.m

We crossed paths with Samantha in Southern California but she now resides in the Twin Cities. She is a freelance photographer, creative and marketing specialist and you’ve probably seen some of her work before. She is a free spirit and new to Minneapolis and looking for recommendations on epic routes to do once winter is over!

Photo: Caylee Hankins (RIP & FUCK Cancer) @alittlepickmeup

Where did you grow up and where do you currently reside?

Valley-girl by default, I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles in a smaller northern town called Sylmar. I recently moved to Minneapolis Minnesota.

How did you initially get involved with motorcycles?

My dad rode and when he passed away just under a month shy of his most anticipated annual charity ride I decided to go as a passenger in his place. I remember the moment so vividly where I overwhelmingly felt his presence more than his absence. Even as a passenger. I knew halfway through that weekend that I had to get my M1 License. And so I did.

When did you get your first bike and what was it?

Some time around early 2018 I got a Triumph Bonneville T100.

What do you currently ride and why?

A 2001 Harley Davidson Dyna Low Rider, because it was my dads before he passed. I could go into great detail of why I ride what was his bike but I think anyone reading might be able to imagine the many ways it helps me enjoy life more fully and connect to my dad's spirit. I never got to ride alongside him while he was alive but in a way, I get to now.

What is your happiest memory that involves motorcycles?

Far too many to only pick a few. The last happy moment was a simple ride from Los Angeles to Palm Springs (my previous residence.) It was early morning and a thick layer of low setting, misty clouds started to disperse as the sun rose over the mountains ahead of me. It was stunning. The perfect song came on and I just started to uncontrollably cry and laugh and scream in my helmet. It was totally unexpected of a commute I was used to riding and honestly not looking forward to very much. But I'd say I was pretty happy in that moment as ridiculous as it was. It was raw, vulnerable and real.

Outside of motorcycles, tell us a little about yourself?

I'm a freelance photographer, creative and marketing specialist but also a jill of many trades. I've lived in many places including Israel for some time. I follow my heart which requires travel and adventure. That's where 2-wheels comes in handy the past few years. I love trying new things. I have no idea what the fuck I'm doing or where I'm going next. I've never wanted to pick one thing to do and excel at. I've always wanted to try to do everything I'm interested in. The last hobby I picked up is climbing. I try to have a good time and the effort in the "try" is simply just showing up fully ready and open to a positive experience.

How have you become a more confident rider? Things you’ve done to help you gain confidence?

More and more seat time. Riding with older and experienced riders who are quick to tell you what habits to adopt and which to shake off.

What is your dream trip/bucket list ride(s)?

Himalayas for sure!

How do you think motorcycles have changed your life?

I KNOW that riding gave me the opportunity to write new chapters after my father passed. It took some time to learn and accept that I could grieve and be in so much sadness and heartbreak while also having moments of true happiness and enjoyment on two wheels. It gave me a community and an organic way of making new friends that are like family to me now. It helped me keep going and have so much more to look forward to while honoring my past.

Do you have any upcoming motorcycle trips/rides planned?
Many many on the bucket list in my mind. Nothing planned yet. I'm living in a new state with so much more opportunity to explore. Once winter is over it's on! Also if anyone in or that has been to Minnesota or the Midwest in general has any recommendations please reach out.

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