Taina's story is a reminder that riding is more than just a hobby; it's a lifestyle.
Taina's story isn't just about motorcycles, it's a story about a lifelong passion with the open road that began even before she was born.
"I had my first accident before I was even born, mum was pregnant 8 months on the back of the Vespa and they came across some wet cobblestone and the bike went down. She hurt herself on her arm and strange thing I came out with a birth mark on my arm".
And clearly a love of motorcycles.
This beginning seemed to foreshadow Taina's own lifelong connection with motorcycles. Her first bike, a water cooled Suzuki 750, the Water Buffalo, marked the beginning of a long line of beloved machines. From riding without a license (a youthful indiscretion she admits with a chuckle) to upgrading through various models like the Honda 400 Four, Kawasaki 650c, and the wonderful Kawasaki Z1, Taina's experience reflects a true rider's evolution.
The search for the perfect ride took her through different styles and sizes. There was the speedy Yamaha 350, the exhilarating Ninja ZX6 (which, admittedly, lacked the power for two), and the reliable Honda VFR 800. The Guzzi 1200 Sport offered pure power, but its weight became a challenge. A BMW S1000RR followed, but when the riding position of the RR became a little to aggressive, there was really only on option for the next bike, a brand new BMW S1000R.
Loaded with modern features like a quick shifter, Brembo ABS, cruise control, traction control, and even hill start control (which initially threw her for a loop!), this bike represents the next phase of her riding experience.
Taina's passion extends beyond just riding. She cherishes the camaraderie of her riding groups, emphasising the trust and support they share. But it's a memory of her first trip to the Isle of Man, that sticks with her. The image of a woman on an older BMW, grey hair flowing, inspired Taina and now, she's living that inspiration herself.
"I hope I'm still riding when I'm that old" she thought to herself. Well, she happily admits, she's older that that woman now.
Taina's story is a reminder that riding is more than just a hobby, it's a lifestyle. It's about the bonds of friendship, and the pursuit of the perfect ride.
Head over to YouTube to check out the story we have filmed with Taina and her wonderful BMW S1000R.