#110 Brianna Meisinger
Minneapolis, MN
1929 Indian 101 Scout
| Hi everyone! I am Brianna, I’m a nurse living in Minnesota who did not grow up around or riding motorcycles. My first experience on a motorcycle was a Yamaha 230 dirt bike at about the age 16 when my stepdad Mike Butts (#65) was teaching me how to ride. We were up at the cabin, and after he taught me how to shift and work the clutch we headed out for my first ride. We soon came across some sand. I remember the back end of the bike fishing-tailing and all I could think was “Oh my gosh, I’m going to die, but at least I’m with Mike…he saves lives.” He later told me the faster you go on sand the less you will fishtail. That lesson I have never forgotten. These first few rides made me want to do more. By age 20 I got my motorcycle license by taking a basic safety course. I gained confidence by taking in some local street rides. As a family we would go to Colorado to dirt bike in the mountains and saw some of the most beautiful scenery I’ve ever seen, along with some of the most rugged terrain. I also learned that off road riding really helps you learn how to ride better and safer on the street. When Mike told me he had gotten accepted into the Cannonball in 2018, I’m not even sure if I knew what it was or if he asked me to come along, but it just sounded like an awesome adventure and a great opportunity to learn more about motorcycles, riding, and seeing the country. Somehow I managed to get the time off from work and there we went! I can’t even begin to explain how much I learned about motorcycles and keeping them running for a long event like this. The most unexpected thing was how many wonderful people I got to meet from all around the world. Following the finish of the cannonball, I spent hours going through the footage and pictures to piece together a video of the trip. It was then that I realized again, how truly incredible this event is. While recapping the video with Mike and sharing stories, he mentioned that if I wanted to sign up for the Cannonball, he felt he would be able to get a bike together for me to ride. He thought it would be a great experience for me and felt there should be more young people and definitely more women in this sport. So before the day was over, I had my name entered on the waiting list as a hopeful new entry into the next Cannonball. My 2021 Cannonball experience did not go as expected. The first few days in Sault Ste. Marie were filled with nerves, excitement and determination. By the middle of Stage 3, I was enjoy this huge opportunity to ride back roads of this beautiful country with my stepdad and uncle. I was beyond thrilled for the upcoming adventure. The universe had other plans. Shortly after my grateful thoughts in Stage 3, I took a detour to the surgery suite in Grand Rapids, MI after obtaining an open compound tibial and fibula fracture. There was no question; I was continuing my journey – just in the support crew vehicle. I am more determined than ever for the Cannonball 2023. I interact with people of all ages on a daily basis, both in my job and on social media. When people find out I like to ride motorcycles, their curiosity is piqued and want to know more about my riding and this event. I’m nervous and anxious about this adventure, but feel that I’m up to the challenge. I want to share that a young woman who has not spent many years on mechanics and motorcycles, can still go out and undertake an event like this. Yes, it might take a lot of determination, but I have also seen firsthand how supportive and encouraging all the riders are with other riders and especially newcomers. I’m ready to get out of my comfort zone while bringing the beauty of these Vintage bikes to young people, especially young women! |
