So, I was just going through some of my books and came across one I was asked to write something for. The Book is titled “Why We Ride” and it’s 101 inspiring stories about women and their motorcycles, written by a friend Tami Walker of Diva Customs.  I thought I’d share with you what I wrote for the book and was hoping you would share with us why YOU ride.

“I ride for the uncomfortable silence. You know some people out there hate silence,hate being around other people and not talking. I get on my bike for that silence. Of course I don’t ride a mo-ped my 1200XL with headwork and supertrapp exhaust makes noise, but it;’s the silence in my head that riding gives me. I don’t have to have a conversation with someone that doesn’t really interest me, I dopn’t have to tell the same story to yet another stranger I have just been introduced to. I don’t have to explain myself to anyone. I  can just enjoy the silence of my mind as my motorcycle becomes an extension of my body. It connects me to the mechanical aspect of the machine. I can feel the piston pounding up and down with every beat my heart makes. I can feel the mix of fuel and air with every breath I take in. I enjoy the silence in my mind while this all take place simultaneously, and my motorcycle makes me one with the environment, this is my time to enjoy that uncomfortable silence. ” ~Sara Liberte

If you are out today at Vintage Torque Fest. in Maquoketa, Iowa Stop by and grab some Garage-Girls freebies, compliments of the Wonder Twins, Lemme and Darren of Cycle Source Magazine!

Occurring each year on the first Friday in May, International Female Ride Day© (IFRD) was created to promote and highlight the countless numbers of women motorcycle riders around the world.  Designed to make one simple request of women – “Just Ride”. Scooter, sport-bike, cruiser, dual-purpose – on road, off-road, track – all ages and all forms are invited.  So girls, JUST RIDE!!!

photo credit Darren McKeag

Not sure about you ladies, but one of my top fashion picks is comfort.  I know, some will not be able to understand this, there are those that will sacrifice anything for style, but I’m just a simple girl who lets comfort rule most of my choices. Of course it has to be cute to catch my eye in the first place but if it’s not comfortable, see ya….  Now, comfort is even more important if your going to be on your feet cruisin’ the city streets all day and that is exactly why I chose this pair of boots from Harley-Davidson Footwear to hit the streets of Brooklyn NY. The Camille boot is COMFORTABLE featuring it’s full length cushion sock lining and Rubber outsole and heel. The Full grain leather upper is soft and supple allowing the boot to “flex” with my strides, basically nothing is jamming into my foot and causing any blisters, just the way I like a pair of boots to be. The Leather is a faded gray color that simply just goes with anything I throw together. You can rock these boots with jeans or even leggings with long socks and a cute skirt. Anyway you wear them I can guarantee you will be comfortable and ready to stay on your toes all day like I just was in the city.  Check them out online at harley-davidsonfootwear.com

It’s Rally Season and soon riders will be rolling into  Leesburg, FL for Leesburg 16th Annual Bike Fest. With a three-day weekend packed full of events and activities April 27-29, 2012.  Riders will be geared up to enjoy beautiful riding in the heart of the Florida peninsula around Lake Whales Ridge near Ocala National Forest and between three of the region’s most picturesque and welcoming lakes.

As usual riders can be sure to see Hot Leathers vendors as they are proud to be at this renowned bike festival, and this long weekend is sure to be an amazing experience for bikers from all over the U.S. You’ll also find a full slate of entertainment, including an impressive array of bikes, poker runs for charity, and bands, including Seven Mary Three and Firehouse. Take in an authentic slice American history with The American Motor Drome Co.’s Wall of Death. And visit great spots like the Rat Hole’s Bar.  Fest hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday thru Sunday. Admission to events and entry fees for participation in competitions vary. Motorcycles only on the downtown streets during the event, and Park N’ Ride services will be available.

In addition Hot Leathers is ready to roll into the Regency Casino in Laughlin. With five days packed full of events and activities April 25-29, 2012,  If you can gear up and ride historic US Route 66 and cruise the hills from Kingman to Oatman, AZ or cool off in the Colorado River.

So if you’re planning on heading to Florida for all the festivities, or Laughlin make sure to keep an eye out for the distinctive flaming logo of Hot Leathers one-of-a-kind merchandise and get up-to-date on your riding gear.

if you are not attending one of these rallies but still need to update your riding gear head over to their site you’ll find everything you need!   hotleathers.com DON”T FORGET TO ADD COUPON CODE GGN for FREE SHIPPING AT CHECKOUT< JUST FOR GARAGE-GIRLS!!