Route to my heart

A promise to her stepdad gave Michelle Chamberlain purpose on two wheels – and she’s just getting started

The first time Michelle Chamberlain got on a motorcycle it was the back of her stepfather Stephen Davies’ Harley-Davidson. In 2011, Stephen – a lifelong Harley fan – was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, and that moment changed the direction of her life. “Before he passed away in 2012, I promised him I’d learn to ride, get my Harley and do Route 66 in his name, raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support,” she says.

That promise became a mission. She earned her licence, bought a brand-new 2013 Sportster^® 883 SuperLow^® and began clocking miles and memories. Along the way, she became known to the riding world as “Lady Harley”, sharing her journey and passion for motorcycling with more than 100,000 Instagram followers. In September this year she’ll fulfil the promise that started it all – riding Route 66 in Stephen’s honour, carrying his spirit every mile.

Born in Derbyshire, UK, Michelle moved to Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales at the age of eight. “It’s on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, so I was lucky to call that home for most of my life,” she says. “It definitely became my biking playground once I passed my test.”

Now 34 and living in Cambridge, she’s never far from a stretch of winding back road. “It’s very much like Wales, but with fewer mountains and more rolling fields and beautiful, twisty lanes,” she laughs.

These lanes are the perfect place to take her Sportster out for a run. “She’s been with me since new, and I’m proud of every scratch and every bit of dirt,” says Michelle. “She’s lived a full life, and to me, that’s exactly how a bike should be – ridden and enjoyed. I’ll never get rid of her.”

Michelle has also added plenty of miles on other models, most recently taking a Road Glide^® through France over five days, cruising through the Vosges mountains. “I fell in love with that bike. It was big, but it handled like an absolute dream. I covered thousands of miles and can honestly say it’s one of the most comfortable bikes I’ve ever ridden.”

What makes a Harley stand out to her? “It’s more than just a machine; it has soul,” she says. “I’m drawn to bikes that make a statement the moment they roll up – bold lines, a deep growl and that unmistakable Harley attitude. But it’s not just about looks, it’s about how it feels when you ride it.”

Her dream bike? “That’s a tough one as the 883 was my dream bike. But the ultimate dream would be a fully custom Street Bob^® or Road Glide, something that blends old-school chopper vibes with modern performance. Matte black, chrome touches, maybe a little purple detailing, because why not. Big engine, loud pipes and unapologetically me.”

Michelle studied law at Swansea University, and while her life took a different path after graduation she uses her legal background to advocate for causes close to her heart. “Through events, fundraisers and partnerships with organisations such as Mental Health Motorbike and PAPYRUS, a charity focused on preventing young suicide, I’ve seen how powerful our community can be when we come together.

As well as these causes she passionate about improving visibility for women riders. “I push for stronger representation of women in the biking world because we’re not just part of the scene, we are the scene,” she says.

Michelle is also a former pageant contestant, but don’t expect clichés. “It might sound like a wild contrast – pageants and Harleys – but honestly, they’ve both shaped who I am in powerful ways,” she says. “Pageants taught me confidence, discipline and how to hold my own in any room. Riding taught me freedom, resilience and how to trust my instincts.

“People assume pageant girls are all glam and no grit, just like they assume bikers are all grit and no grace. I’ve lived in both spaces and proved that you can be both strong and feminine, tough and elegant.”

Michelle has gained so much from riding and now she’s giving something back as a newly qualified instructor. “I wanted to help other experience the same feeling of freedom and sense of belonging, especially women, who might feel intimidated stepping into a male-dominated space,” she says.

“What I love most about being an instructor is watching someone go from being nervous to absolutely owning the road – helping them unlock a whole new side of themselves.”

This Lady Harley isn’t just riding, she’s making good on a promise, building a community and proving that strength doesn’t look a certain way. Whether it’s the winding roads of the Brecon Beacons or the dramatic French mountains, one thing’s certain, she isn’t following the crowd, she’s leading the pack.

My top five

Here are Michelle’s top five destinations from past trips and wish lists

Route 66, US: “Iconic for a reason. It’s not just the road, it’s the diners, old motels, the locals with stories that stretch back generations.”
Vosges mountains, France: “Twisty roads, jaw-dropping views, barely any traffic. Plus pastries and strong coffee – what more could a biker ask for?”
Amalfi Coast, Italy: “Less about speed, more about soaking it all in. Cliffside roads, Mediterranean views – a sensory overload in the best way.”
Great Ocean Road, Australia: “Ocean on one side, rainforest on the other, roads that dip and sweep like a rollercoaster. High on my to-ride list.”
Highlands, Scotland: “Moody skies, rugged landscapes, roads that stretch forever. Wild and freeing. And there’s nothing like pulling into a tiny pub after a long day.”

Her dream ride? “The Pan-American Highway, from Alaska to Argentina. Glaciers, deserts, jungles, mountains, cultures, stories. It’s the ultimate test of endurance, freedom and connection to the world.”