MEMBER’S TAKE

LIVING MY DREAM

By Lisa Scoppettuolo

My love affair with motorcycles started when I turned 10. I was allowed to choose any bicycle in the store for my birthday, and when I saw that red bike that looked just like a motorcycle, I knew I’d found the best present ever.

Through the years I enjoyed seeing others ride, but my own motorcycle journey didn’t begin until the summer of 2016. While working at a post office I spoke to my coworker Bill Morgan and mentioned I’d longed to learn how to ride a motorcycle. Next thing I knew he was regaling me with tales of racing dirt bikes.

“You get the bike, and I’ll teach you,” he told me.

I purchased a Yamaha XT250, a dualsport I could ride both on and off road. I didn’t know that much about different motorcycles at that point, but I loved that the bike was blue and white…my favorite colors.

Bill took me to Extreme Machines, a motorcycle shop, and got me all geared up, insisting I get a helmet that was DOT approved. He also helped me pick out gloves, a chest protector, shoulder pads, knee protectors and, of course, motocross boots.

My first lesson was in his yard, and as with anything, you’ve gotta practice.

The first five times on the bike, I fell. But I dusted myself off and got back on. Eventually I could stay on that bike, and by the next day I was more comfortable zipping around Bill’s lawn.

I noticed he had a little hill in his yard and just couldn’t resist. I turned the bike toward the hill, picked up some speed and went over it. Bill looked at me in amazement, gave me a thumbsup and asked, “Have you ever thought about racing?”

I hadn’t, but it sure sounded like fun. And that was the start of a beautiful friendship. Bill took me to the races, including Budds Creek, Unadilla and Motocross of Nations, to name a few. I fell in love with the sport, but sadly, Bill passed away.

Later, I met another coworker — Bob Wallace — who loved racing dirt bikes and owned a Husqvarna shop. After chatting about our mutual love for two wheels, he offered me a place to practice and gave me a lot of guidance and support. Through him I was recently able to purchase a Husqvarna TE 150 dirt bike with electric start.

I definitely need more practice before I start racing, but I’m used to overcoming obstacles. Born with a severe learning disability, I was told I may never achieve academic success, but I proved everyone wrong, graduating high school and college with honors. While they said my perception problems might keep me from driving a car, I now ride a motorcycle and love the thrill of flying over hills.

Today, it feels like I’m living a dream! As a child, I envisioned wearing a helmet and gear and speeding off, and that dream has become a reality.

I’ve always loved writing, and wanted to write a book. And going to the races inspired me to write my first children’s book. It’s titled Straight Off the Gate, and is a story about dirt bikes and other types of motorcycles.

To inspire others with my journey, I even created a documentary called Unscoppable, and it’s currently available on YouTube. (youtu.be/VnqQHU4ARac)

I’m so thankful Bill taught me to ride. Riding taught me perseverance, determination and hard work. But most important, it taught me to go after my dreams!

Lisa Scoppettuolo is an AMA member from Monroe Township, N.J.