Riding Solo: This ‘Nomadic Hijabi Rider’ Is Breaking Biking Stereotypes

Noor's journey is one of grit and determination. As a child, she loved bikes, and with time, her desire to hit the open road and feel the wind on her face grew stronger. But as a woman, her desire to learn how to ride was met with surprise and concern. Nonetheless, no setback could stop her from chasing her dream of becoming a biker. So she bought a second-hand bike, took to the streets in Chennai and learnt how to ride on her own.

Today, the Nomadic Hijabi Rider (as she is known through her Instagram) has clocked thousands of kilometres on her bike, and is gearing up for even bigger challenges. More recently, she made a gruelling yet rewarding journey from Bangalore to Nepal, covering 9000 kilometres. And she has no plans of stopping, as she tells us about her plan of taking her new bike from Chennai to Saudi Arabia!

As a participant at the India Bike Week's much-anticipated segment, Big Trip, which is hosting a stellar lineup of International and Indian bikers, she hopes to share her story with other women. On the sidelines of the event, we spoke to her about her journey:

My journey into solo biking stems from a love for pace and meaningful connections on the road. I prefer travelling slowly, stopping at every interesting spot, and interacting with people along the way. This comfort with a slower pace led me to embark on solo adventures, as not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for unhurried travel.

The inspiration to become a solo biker emerged from a desire to challenge societal norms, particularly in a community where biking is often perceived as exclusive to men. I decided to learn biking myself, enabling me to freely explore the world on two wheels. The joy of biking and the freedom it offered became the driving force behind my solo biking journey. Addressing stereotypes, I maintain a positive mindset, even in challenging situations like accidents. I've fallen numerous times, but my resilient spirit propels me to get up, ride again, and not take setbacks too seriously. This optimistic approach extends to navigating stereotypes in the biking community, where I focus on my passion and ride rather than letting preconceptions affect my journey.

Choosing my Insta name, "Nomadic Hijabi Rider," was a personal and meaningful decision. The name encapsulates my identity and journey. "Nomadic" reflects my lifestyle of constant travel, and "Hijabi" is a nod to the headscarf I've worn since childhood, often completing my ensemble with a complete burqa. Together with "Solo Biker," this name truly represents who I am.

The decision to incorporate "Hijabi" in my Insta name sparks curiosity and often prompts questions about how being a hijabi solo biker impacts perception. To address this, I've found that people's perceptions can be challenged and broadened through genuine interactions. Living a nomadic life and wearing a hijab naturally invite questions, allowing me to share my unique perspective and break stereotypes.

Riding solo is central to my identity, and it naturally challenges stereotypes present in the biking community. I've come to understand that stereotypes are often based on preconceived notions, and by simply being true to myself and my journey, I've found that perceptions can be reshaped. Each ride, each interaction, and each post on my Instagram are small steps in breaking down stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive view of solo bikers, especially hijabi riders like me.

My Insta name is a reflection of my authentic self, and I navigate and challenge stereotypes by embracing who I am, sharing my experiences openly, and fostering understanding within the biking community.

Being a solo biker has its share of challenges, but my approach is to handle them proactively. For instance, during a ride from Haryana to Delhi, my bike unexpectedly stopped due to a service issue at a Royal Enfield showroom. Undeterred, I sought help from a random passerby, emphasising the importance of reaching Delhi by evening. This stranger generously assisted me in towing my bike to the showroom, which was 10 kilometres away. Facing such challenges, I've learned to reach out for help, and more often than not, people on the road have come forward to assist.

My participation at India Bike Week carries a clear message: to encourage diversity and inspire others, especially women with similar backgrounds, to pursue their dreams and break through societal norms. I want to emphasise that every individual, regardless of their background, has the potential to challenge norms, follow their passions, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the biking community. Through shared experiences and stories, I hope to ignite the spirit of empowerment and inspire positive change within the biking community.

Events like India Bike Week play a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity within the biking community. This gathering serves as a melting pot where individuals from diverse cultures converge to share their unique experiences. The coming together of people from different backgrounds not only breaks cultural barriers but also fosters a sense of unity. In essence, such events act as catalysts for breaking down barriers, creating a space where everyone, regardless of their background, feels a sense of belonging in the vibrant tapestry of the biking world.

Looking ahead, my future plans revolve around international adventures. I've sold my bike, booked a new Himalayan 450, set to be delivered this month. The goal is to cross borders on this new bike, and what makes it more meaningful is that I'm funding this journey entirely on my own. Avoiding external assistance, I'm working hard to save for this venture, slated to commence in the coming months. Beyond personal aspirations, my broader goal is to share my story and inspire others, reinforcing the message that compromising one's dreams is unnecessary. I want to encourage everyone, especially women, to live life to the fullest and pursue their dreams without hesitation.