The first time I saw a Gremlin Bell I thought it was really cute and wanted one for myself. But then I found out you can’t buy your own – someone has to give it to you. Otherwise it doesn’t work. That’s what the mythology says, anyway.
What is a Gremlin bell?
If you’ve never heard of Gremlin bells – they’re small metal bells that you hang on your motorcycle as near the ground as possible.
The story goes that road gremlins – small, mischievous creatures – like to hitch a ride on motorcycles and cause trouble.
Punctures, engine problems, that sort of thing. A Gremlin bell hanging low on the bike is said to trap them – and the constant ringing drives them mad until they finally let go. And where they land, a pothole forms. (Which might explain quite a lot about the state of the roads in Norway. 😄)
But – you can’t buy one for yourself. It has to be a gift.
Now, I’m not particularly superstitious, but I like the idea behind it. I like the gesture – giving something with a wish that another rider gets good days on the road.
It actually made an impression on me when I received my Gremlin bell. It came from someone I didn’t know very well, and somehow that made it even more powerful. Someone cared about me and wanted me to ride without trouble. I think most riders have felt that worry about mechanical problems at some point – I certainly have!
I’m giving out Sparks of Joy gremlin bells!
I’ve wanted to make my own Gremlin bells with the Sparks of Joy logo for a long time. And now I actually have! Biker Bells have made some fantastic, beautiful and cool bells.
I give them to people (mostly women) who have given me something real along the way – inspiration, support, or just a genuine cheer from the sidelines. As a thank you, and with a sincere wish that they get to ride safely and without trouble.
As you can see, they’re a little bit special – black, with the logo laser engraved. They make a lovely ringing sound that the gremlins apparently hear – and let go. 😄
Some of the people now riding gremlin-free:
Malin Åhr
For being an inspiration – getting her motorcycle licence a few years ago and just getting out there on the Enduro track, being fearless. She’s a genuine inspiration for all women wanting to try something new. Just do it, don’t be afraid.
Runa Grydeland/Off She Goes
For giving me the chills (in a really good way) when I heard her speak at MC-messa in Lillestrøm in 2026. Her definition of adventure resonated deeply with me: that there’s no right or wrong way to do it – simply do it your own way, the way that’s right for you,
And that feeling safe isn’t something you are, it’s something you become. That last one I keep coming back to over and over. You know, the “Doing it afraid”-thing.
Runa has a rare ability to be completely herself on camera, without polish or performance (at least that’s how I see her). She inspired me more than she knows. Or maybe she knows. 😀
My husband Ola
For not only do a LOT of practice driving with me, but also supporting me in every way possible. Either it was pepping me before that dreading driving test or approve me buying (and selling) motorcycles along the way. Ola, you are an absolute gem!
Would you buy one?
I only have a small number, so they are going to people I want to give them to. But they’re so nice that I’m thinking about ordering more and selling some – and it would be good to know if there’s any interest.
Would you buy one? I’m thinking the price would be around 250 SEK + postage.
Because at the end of the day, a Gremlin bell isn’t really about gremlins. It’s about taking a moment to say: “I see you. I’m glad you’re out there riding. And I hope the road is good to you”.
If you’d like one – drop me a mail, and we’ll sort it out.
Oh, I even made a short about when we bought a Gremlin bell for Christine in 2025:
Drive safe!
