Hello, my name is Lydie, I am from France and a motorcycle rider and work part-time as an accountant. I am 55 years old and the mother of two grown-up children. My hobbies are varied, I like  cycling or hiking. I associate my hobby, motorcycling, with photography.

I ride a Brixton Cromwell 125, which I chose because of the old-school character, its low fuel consumption and its favourable price.

How long have you been riding motorcycles?

I’ve been riding my pretty Cromwell 125 for two years now and I’m currently doing further training to be allowed to ride larger displacement motorcycles.

As a woman, what inspired you to become a motorcycle rider?

Riding a motorcycle has always been on my wish list. Then one day when I was talking to my friend Véronique, we discovered this shared passion. Equipment, the same motorcycles, training… and in spring 2022 we were on the road.

Were there any particular challenges or prejudices that you faced as a woman with a motorcycle?

The real challenge was telling my relatives and friends about my plan. Then came the prejudices and comments: ‘You’re over 50 when you get on a motorcycle’ ‘You’re not scared of the speed?’. The second challenge was to prove that I was capable of doing it.

How does your environment react to your passion for motorcycling?

Those closest to me have always supported and encouraged me. My relatives and friends are very divided in their opinions, but I don’t let that get me down.

Do you have a favourite route where you particularly enjoy riding?

My playground remains the winding roads in the Jura mountains, the hairpin bends and mountain passes. I prefer places where speed is not important. I like to vary the routes between lakes, forests and landscapes.

Is there a motorcycle tour that you particularly remember?

Being alone in the Jura, under the sun, taking breaks for myself and taking cool pictures of my Cromwell 125 😉 It was the first time I’d travelled so far (190km) and it was a great time, full of confidence and no problems with my Cromwell.

Do you have any special tips or advice for other women who want to start riding a motorcycle?

If a woman who has never ridden a motorbike before wants to start, I would recommend: start with a 125cc, gain confidence and choose a good riding school where you can get your licence.

125cc bikes are simply fun and motorcyclists remain a community, no matter how big the engine capacity. The Brixton Cromwell 125 is very manoeuvrable and relatively light, it’s a real joy.

How important is motorcycle safety to you and what protective measures do you take?

Safety, to be seen, is of paramount importance. Brixton is well equipped in terms of lighting.

It’s important to be equipped with clothing that makes you even more visible during the day and at night.

What challenges have you overcome while riding a motorcycle that are particularly important to you?

It’s always a real challenge for me to start on a hill😂

What does motorcycling mean to you personally?

Without hesitation … freedom. It’s an antidepressant and an escape from everyday life as soon as I get on the bike.

What else would you like to tell us about your Brixton?

I have dreams I want to live, no one I want to impress, and with my Brixton Cromwell 125 I live them every moment. Thanks!

Photos: Lydie

Lydie’s motorcycle: Brixton Cromwell 125

Follow Lydie on Instagram: @lavieenrafale

Want to be the next pilot of the month? Send us an email to Marketing@ksr-group.com. We want to hear your Brixton story!