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Terrasye T. Daniels (Writer/Associate Editor)
Stepping into the world of Advertising & Print, she has mastered the roles of fashion editing, photo production and interviewing people of all nationalities. As a journalist, she holds a special gift of getting to the “heart” of one’s story. A passionately bold Writer & Poet, Tookie’s tales are truly unconventional, nonjudgmental and real. Rarely will you come across a writer who is raw and honest enough to tell the story as it should be told. With a life-time of experience, she devotes her time to many non-profit organizations mentoring & through Child Abuse Advocacy. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she is the mother of a recent high school graduate named Brennan. Described as a “Painter of Words”, she’s ready to make her literary debut; destined to take the world by storm.
Andrea “DoubleTap” McGinley (Writer)
Andrea “DoubleTap” McGinley is a member and club secretary for the Mysterious 1’s SMC, located in the Bay Area of CA. As well as being a certified Interior Designer in MA, she is an avid motorcyclist; her current ride is a ‘99 Honda Shadow ACE750. When she’s not pounding the ground, Andrea is studying for her CA Interior Design certification: her favorite phrase is, “Do what you love and the money will follow...” which is why her thesis project is the re-design of a motorcycle showroom in CA! Some of her favorite activities include spending time with her two daughters and husband, attending events on The Set, and writing articles for BGR.
Joanne Dunn, Founder - GearChic.com (Writer)
Joanne is from San Francisco and works as an office administrator for a design firm on weekdays but lives her passion for motorcycling on weekends. Aside from running GearChic, she works part time as an MSF RiderCoach and at Scuderia West, a KTM/Aprilia/Kymco/Victory dealer learning the ins and outs of protective riding gear. In 2007, she identified a gap in information and started a website and blog that focuses exclusively on the benefits of protective motorcycle gear for women. She provides reviews, tips and insights on all things related to what you (men and women) should be wearing while riding your motorcycle or scooter. If you’re just starting out and don’t know what to wear, how it should fit or where to get it, Joanne will point you in the right direction.
O H W N E M O W H
C N E WR
Stacey “Getgone” Hicks OWNER Rfl customz www.rflcustomz.com
Interview and photos by Meekail Shaheed of MS Fotography
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Q. How long have you been riding? A. 28 years Q. How long have you been working on Bikes? A. 10 years Q. What got you interested? A. My dad rode, and My mentor, Sean Fairfax Q. What are your favorite bikes to work on and why? A. Well I started out working on the Hayabusa , still my favorite but since getting into the business some of my other favorites are the Yam R1 and now the Harley brand is fast becoming a favorite. Q. What is your most memorable project? A. My most memorable project was the Cat Women bike; it was my first build from the ground up. Q. What are your future plans? A. My future plans are to make Rflcustomz Gogurlgear LLC. A household name and build a reputable brand for my girls to be proud of, and expand beyond Atlanta. I also want to go back to school to learn more fabricating and welding maybe we can really be the female version of the Paul sr and Paul Jr. Q. What has been the reaction from your customers to a female working on their bikes? A. Haha, well, in the beginning I got the “HECK NO YOUR NOT TOUCHING MY BIKE”. Now, I get “Hey how soon can you get me in”. Q. What has been your reaction from females? A. That’s a good one. I just haven’t been able to get to a lot of the females, and I think it’s a lot of them not knowing about us and a lot of them being afraid of another female working on their bikes when in reality we (female mechanics) are few and far between.
Q. Do you have a speciality? Yes my speciality is design and by that I mean I have great vision. I can take a customer and his bike into consultation knowing he has no idea what he wants (or maybe he does lol) and at the end of the consult and the end of the project the bike is a complete piece of art. I have a lot of happily surprised customers because I come up with ideas that no one thinks of putting on bikes like my use of colors and mixing powercoat with chrome. I like to think I have that special touch when it comes to putting things together the normaly would not be thought of as a match or I can turn a completely plain bike into a custom bike using the same exact pattern as the stock paint but making a few changes to make you go hmmmm I never would have thought of that. Q. How can customers reach you? A. Customers can reach us at rflcustomz.com or 877.425.8499 they can also reach out to us at facebook.com/rflcustomzgogurlgearllc or by email at info@rflcustomz.com
by Andrea “DoubleTap” McGinley
Photos by Johnny Mapp for BikePaparazi.com
“Racing has to be in your heart, it’s not
something you do because it’s cool...”
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successful female Drag Racer from North Carolina, Gloria “Wonder Woman” Mitchell has been riding a motorcycle since 1998. She began racing cars along with her husband; eventually she took over the racing aspect and has been competing professionally ever since. She received her nickname Wonder Woman during her first appearance at Piedmont Dragway’s Big Dog Shootout car race, where the other racers had superhero names; it has stuck with her ever since and she’s kept that superhero racing persona on the track, whether with bike or car. Since then she has competed primarily at the Piedmont Dragway in Greensboro, NC; her most recent appearance at the Piedmont NC season opener car race event on June 4th resulted in a 2nd place finish in the 5.8s Raider category, driving a ‘79 Camaro Z28, and the only female racer competing in that race division. She also competes on motorcycle; in 2008 she was the first ever all-female drag race National Champion in Atlanta, Georgia. Her current ride is a 2005 Suzuki 1300...on an 1/8 mile track, her bike can get up to 145 mph in just over 5 seconds--almost as fast as her comic namesake super-heroine’s invisible jet! Adding to this superhuman sport is her career as professional hairstylist and mother to two, ages 19 and 24. “My daughter has been riding an 1100 since she was 12, but my son likes the cars more...” she says of their interests; it’s clear however, that racing is her own passion. Significantly more women racers are competing today than even three years ago, and men are used to seeing and racing against female riders competitively. While some male riders are still reluctant to ride against female racers, Gloria insists it’s important to earn your respect by taking racing and preparation seriously. “ The number one mistake females make (on the track) is not knowing the danger and importance of preparation in racing.” Racing is the “shortest part” of the track experience; paying attention to safety with gear and maintenance is vital and shows her respect for the sport.
Part of the appeal of racing is the satisfaction she gets with being able to work on the machines herself. Gloria estimates she spends between $500-600 annually on motorcycle maintenance. “Most of that goes to changing out the clutch and new tires...but oil changes, stuff like that adds up too.” Besides the mechanical aspects of racing and safety, Gloria also stresses the importance of the right mental attitude when racing, whether a motorcycle or car. “Racing is dangerous, you got to be respectful of the dangers. A lot of people don’t take it seriously; I’ve been lucky so far, no wrecks, but I always wear the right safety gear. Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to what you’re doing.” Advice to riders who are thinking about making the transition from road to racetrack includes “Find a local track first, they’ll sometimes be able to recommend a teacher. But find an experienced teacher too...it’s important not to pick up bad habits, so a good teacher is important.” Dedication, time and money are part of racing too; “You spend a lot of time practicing; that all costs money with maintenance, gas, parts, gear, stuff like that, it gets expensive.” Still, when talking to this Wonder Woman about her love of all-things-racing, this seems like a minor concern. It’s apparent the energy and excitement of the race itself is the payoff for her dedication. While it’s clear that racing really is in this Wonder Woman’s heart, it’s also so very, very cool.
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2 WHEELS 2 HEELS 4 SISTERHOOD STILETTOS & CHROME
MOTORCYCLE & SOCIAL CLUB FOUNDED: 1999 Location: Los Angeles, CA
Stilettos & Chrome Motorcycle and Social Club is one of the youngest
“More than just a Motorcycle and Social Club; this is an organization that has Business Savvy, with a plan to Make It Happen...” 14 BLACK GIRLS Ride
Female clubs on the LA set. More about the community than the party, President and Founder, Shantell “Ms. Savvy” Denham introduces us to the sisters of heels and wheels. Photos by J3 Photography
LEXXO
BOSS LYFE RIDAZ MC LOS ANGELES, CA
SMILEZ BUSINESS MGR
Ms. lady VICE PRESIDENT
STILETTOS & CHROME MC LOS ANGELES, CA
STILETTOS & CHROME MC LOS ANGELES, CA
SPARKLE
STILETTOS & CHROME MC LOS ANGELES, CA
REECIE CUP TREASURER
STILETTOS & CHROME MC LOS ANGELES, CA
TEE BABY
STILETTOS & CHROME MC LOS ANGELES, CA
Shantell “Ms. Savvy” Denham NATIONAL PRESIDENT & FOUNDER STILETTOS & CHROME MC/SC PASADENA, CA
“We are Women who have a Vision, to see our club Prosper in many different ways...” 16 BLACK GIRLS Ride
Q. Tell us about Stilettos & Chrome MC/SC... A. Stilettos & Chrome Motorcycle Club & Stilettos Social Club of Pasadena, CA came into existence on January 1, 2011. We are the first female MC out of Pasadena, CA. Our Founding MC Members are Shantell “Ms. Savvy” Pres., Kisha”Ms. LADY” Vice-Pres., Kisha “Smilez” Bus. Mgr., Sharice “Reecie Cup” Treasurer, Terri “Tee Baby” Historian, Phyllis “Sparkle”, Michelle “Sparky” Honorary MC Member. Our Founding Social Club Members are Crystal “Flossy” VP, Laura “Chi-Town” Sgt. @ Arms, Kisha “Mz. Bouge” Asst. Bus. Mgr. Teisha “Prit’C” Secretary, Patrice “Silki”, Garvase “Mama Stuff” Sgt. @ Arms. We are an organization of lady riders who have a common goal, “To Make a Difference!” With a long time dream, a lot of patience and a strong desire to ride, I was able to turn my dream into a reality. Q. What’s the club’s mission or motto? A. To provide assistance to those that may be less fortunate than others, by giving back and making a difference in the community and on the Motorcycle scene, while also keeping our club strong and our Sisters Happy. We are Women who have a Vision, to see our club prosper in many different ways. Our first priority is Teen Domestic violence. Being a positive role model in the eyes of young adults, can help influence them in their decision making and better prepare them to succeed in society. Another priority focus is our community service initiative called “Pamper Me Beauty Day”, which is held @ PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) during the week of Mothers Day. We provide a breakfast buffet & beauty care services: including professional hair styling, make-up sessions, massages & relaxation treatments for several beautiful mothers. We believe if the mothers are taken care of, they give better care to their children. We’ve only existed for seven months and we have already made a HUGE impact in enhancing people’s lives. There are so many avenues that we are preparing to take to be more involved in making a difference. With regards to all the GREAT things that we are doing, we still make time to support our fellow MC/SC Clubs. We’ll see you on THE SET. Q. What should a woman look for in an MC club? A. SISTERHOOD!! It’s very important that your club sisters get along. I always tell the Stilettos...no matter what, you must always be cordial to your sisters at all times. There’s going to be several different personalities within the Sisterhood, so the greatest quality a female club should have is a woman who can accept other women for who they are. Stilettos & Chrome MC and Stilettos SC is that club.
Q. What does your club look for in a member? A. We look for a member to have similar values and common goals as the organization. We look for women to have great leadership skills and have respect for herself & others. A woman who has long-term female friends, because it says a lot about how you are with women and who you are as a woman. We also look for members to show growth on a personal level and within the sisterhood. We also look for members to be fully committed to our organization and to support our ideals and goals towards excelling as an all-female motorcycle club. Q. What is your criterion for membership? We expect our future members to first always be a LADY. We expect each woman to have a gainful occupation, to be open minded and easy to get along with and be willing to Prospect or, as we call it “Flip Flop” for 90 Days, because you must first learn to walk in “Flip Flops” before u can walk in “Stilettos”. If her desire is to be a MC, she must have a M1, or be in the process of attaining one, with the expectation to always promote safe riding and the commitment to be “On Ground”. Q. What annual events do you promote? We promote our “Pamper Me Beauty Day” @ PATH (People Assisting the Homeless), Southern California- Women’s Health Conference, annual Under Garment Clothes Drive for the homeless, Get Healthy Pasadena (Men Educating Men about Health) and other community service initiatives in Pasadena and surrounding cities. As a new organization we always try to support as many Clubs as possible, but I must admit we have a soft spot for our city shared MC Clubs. 110 To The End, 4 Horsemen and Black Hawks of Pasadena, CA. We also support the Inland Empire/Los Angeles Clubs as well. Q. What are your favorite cities or roads to ride? Oh wow... my first Freeway ride was to San Diego. So, I’m going to say that San Diego is definitely one of my favorites. Riding to Santa Barbara is a GREAT ride as well and just being “On Ground” riding from city to city, with my club sisters representing Stilettos & Chrome MC is always fun too! Q. Are there any last words you’d like to leave us with? A. Of course…2 Wheels ~ 2 Heels ~ 4 Sisterhood!!!!
HOT PANTS 6 PAIR OF RIDING PANTS TO PROTECT YOUR ASSETS
Written by Joanne Donn of GearChic.com Here are some recommendations for protective pants that will keep you cool and safe in the warmest of riding conditions. We highly recommend wearing a good wicking/moisture managing base layer to make your riding pants more comfortable when going on a long ride, especially on a particularly sweaty day. It’ll also help your pants fit better, making them easier for on and off (bathroom breaks!) as well. If you’re looking for a pant that has a strong abrasion resistant outer shell, breathability and a great fit, I hope one of these will work for you.
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Dainese Drake Air Textile $ 25900 If there’s something that Dainese is known for, it’s Fit and Function. These will fit you like your favorite pair of jeans. With venting on the front of the thighs, it should keep you cool on a warm summer day. I would recommend these for the most petite fits, as it features a smaller starting size of a European 40 (US 0-2) and a narrow, straight leg.
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REV’IT Tornado $ 25900
The Tornado (with a matching jacket) is the ultimate touring pant for women. These have 2 removable liners, one thermal and one waterproof/windproof. The outer shell offers a little more ventilation than the Turbine but offers only Knox Armor and constructed of 86% polyamide, 14% polyester. It also has a slightly different polyester mesh weave. I would also recommend these for a petite fit, as the starting size is European 34 (US 0-2). But if you’re a plus size, and need something over a 10-12, I recommend the men’s version of these pants.
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REV’IT Turbine $ 32900 US Women’s 7 - 10
With a slightly higher price point, you get better armor (ProLife CE), SuperFabric on the knees, and an outer shell constructed of 1000 Denier Cordura®. So you’re getting a more protective pant than it’s little sister, the Tornado above. For the hardcore dual sport / adventure / touring rider looking for a pant that’s going to protect you and keep you cool and dry. I would also recommend these for a petite fit, as the starting size is European 34 (US 0-2).
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Olympia Airglide 3 Overpants $ 21999
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FirstGear HT Air Overpants $ 22995 With a mesh construction on the outer shell, these offer a removable, waterproof liner and 2/3 length zippers along the sides. I like how the 2 front pockets are in a much more useful place than other pants who place them a little too high for my use. It’s so much easier to reach for a pocket on your thigh than it is to reach for a pocket way up on your hip. I would recommend these as an ideal fit for the curviest/full figured/plus size women out there who need something with a wider leg fit. These also run up to a true US 18.
6 These are the only summer mesh overpants with a full hip to toe zipper! What you’ll also find are velcro adjustments in the pocket where the knee armor fits so you can move it up and down as you need to (especially if you’re wearing these on different bikes which can have different seated positions). These are also a little long on purpose so those of us who are vertically challenged can hem them as needed. Just be careful not to hem them in front of the mirror. Make sure you sit on your bike to know how much length you really might need! I recommend these for the curviest/full figured/plus size girls who need more room in the hips/butt and thighs. They run up to a true US 18.
RS Taichi Crossover Mesh Riding Pants $ 17995
These look like a great pant with mesh panels right where you need them. The fits tend to be more petite and compact, you could say.
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