Dubai-based biker Richa, who requested that only her first name be used for this article, shares her thoughts: “Being true to yourself isn’t always the popular choice. So it’s up to you. Do you want to conform, or do you want to follow your heart?” Standing at just over five feet, with long black hair shaved on one side and cascading over her shoulders on the other, Richa exudes a bold biker vibe. Her hair is streaked with pink, matching her vibrant nail polish. A tattoo adorns her left arm, stopping just past a knuckle, and a leather cuff with steel spikes encircles her wrist. Despite her fierce appearance, her eyes reveal a softer, more domestic side. At 46, she effortlessly balances her roles as a homemaker and a daring biker. This November 8-10, she’ll be attending Arabian Bike Week in Ras Al Khaimah, the largest motorcycle festival in the Middle East, which attracts enthusiasts from around the globe for thrilling rides, stunt shows, live music, and beach parties.
Looking at Richa now, it’s hard to believe she only started riding five years ago. Growing up in middle-class India, Richa kept her dreams of riding a Harley Davidson to herself. “Imagine, if a middle-class girl had said she wanted to ride a Harley 30-40 years ago, people would have laughed,” she recalls. “But here I am, riding my own Harley.” Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Harley Davidson has become a symbol of freedom and rebellion, though its rising price tag now starts at $25,633 (Dh94,150).
As a young girl, Richa followed the conventional path of studying, marrying, and having children. But at 40, she felt an undeniable urge to pursue her passion. “I began to think, ‘I’m settled, I have a family, but what about me?’” After a year of research, she decided to buy a Harley. “I didn’t discuss it with anyone. As I turned 41, I knew I had to do it.” She took her husband to the showroom, and though he was initially nervous, he supported her decision. “I didn’t even have a license yet,” she admits, “but I was determined.”
Living in Sharjah, Richa needed a special motorcycle license. “I was the only woman in the class; the others were all men. It was challenging, but I got my license and my bike.” However, a series of obstacles followed—pneumonia, Covid restrictions, and being stuck in India—delayed her riding. “When I returned, I had lost touch, but I was determined to ride again. I started slow, joining a group to gain confidence.”
Today, Richa rides twice a week with the Harley Owners Group Dubai. “My husband is very supportive—he takes care of the kids so I can enjoy my rides,” she says. Reflecting on her journey, Richa notes that she didn’t seek her family’s approval before starting this hobby. “My father-in-law just wanted me to be careful, while my mother was scared. But the younger generation was excited and inspired by my decision.”
Richa’s transformation has also influenced her children. “They are fearless,” she smiles. “When I talk to them about my rides, they see me as a role model. My focus is on my safety and happiness, and that has naturally influenced them.” Regarding the cost, she says, “Some people are shocked by spending money on a motorcycle instead of gold. But this bike brings me joy and refreshment every time I ride. It’s an investment in my happiness.”
Richa’s journey has led to a profound sense of self-love. “I discovered that riding made me love myself more. I take care of my body to ensure I’m mentally and physically fit to ride. I encourage others to love themselves and pursue their passions. The rest will follow.”
