The bikes

’96 Yamaha Virago 535

Yamaha Virago 535

My dream bike from the ’90s.
I bought it from my mother-in-law and took my riding test on it.

Specs

  • 535 cc V-twin
  • Cruiser
  • Low seat height
  • Shaft drive

What it taught me

  • That stubbornness beats a really bad carburator.
  • That a motorcycle is not just a motorcycle. It turns out they come with different characteristics and a personality of their own.

’97 Yamaha Virago 1100

Yamaha Virago 1100

Bigger isn’t better
I thought it would feel the same as the Virago 535. It didn’t. But the seat is like a sofa.

Specs

  • 1063 cc V-twin
  • Cruiser
  • Shaft drive

What it taught me

  • That it’s a very top heavy bike. I never got friends with it.
  • Bigger doesn’t automatically mean better.

’21 Honda Rebel 500

Honda Rebel 500

A real joyride
My reward for getting through a tough riding test on the Virago 53. I thought I deserved a problem-free bike. I did. And it was!

Specs

  • 471 cc parallel twin
  • Cruiser/Bobber style
  • Very low seat height
  • Light and beginner-friendly

What it taught me

  • Confidence grows with comfort.
  • The original seat is terrible, but it’s the perfect bike for commuting.
  • Even a Rebel can scrape the footpegs in tight corners.

Triumph Tiger 900 GT Low

Triumph Tiger 900 GT Low

My biggest growth machine.
My Joy. My sparks of joy.

Specs

  • 888 cc triple
  • Adventure bike
  • GT Low version
  • Lowered an additional 2.5 cm
  • Electronic suspension

What it taught me

  • Curiosity about gravel and new riding techniques.
  • The reassurance that it can take me almost anywhere – including long adventures.

Every bike taught me something different.
And every step has been about growing, getting confidence.
There is always more to learn.

-Verene

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