First off, we want to thank you for giving up some time in your busy schedule to do this interview for us. For those people who don’t know you, can you shed some light on your personal background and let us know what got you into the world of motorcycle stunt riding?
Of course! Thank you so much for this opportunity to speak with Bully Girl Magazine. I’m Robyn Diamond aka Robyn Stunts, and I’m one out of a handful of female motorcycle stunt riders. I started riding motorcycles in 2011, and started trying to wheelie in 2011 as well. I was born and raised in MA, and decided to move to CA in 2014 for the weather and change of pace. I’ve been lucky enough to land some really sweet gigs because of my wheelies. I’ve stunt doubled for Taylor Swift, rode in a French Montana video, and did a fashion campaign shoot with Armani Exchange – all on one wheel. Those are just a few of my fav gigs.
My brother turned me onto stunt riding. He used to do crazy fast wheelies on the highway, and I thought – wow he’s so cool I want to be like him haha. Once I got my motorcycle license, I met some riders that rode slower more controlled parking lot wheelies, and I decided to learn to do it too.
Are you just naturally fearless, or do you ever worry about the risk of injuries that can come from stunt riding?
I would say I’m not naturally fearless. I’d say I’m right in the middle of safe and fearless. I like to do extreme things, and get outside my comfort zone and push my limits – but that “be careful” voice kicks in a little more often than I would like haha. Sometimes I do worry about the risk of injury, but I try not to let it get to me too much. I think you can get more injured just street riding, or driving a car. Most of my stunts are at a pretty slow speed. If I break something, it will heal.
What was the first street bike you ever rode, and how long did it take you to master your first stunt?
The first street bike I ever rode was a 2005 Honda CBR 600rr. 🙂 I still miss that bike. I sold that bike when I bought my stunt bike, because I didn’t think I needed two bikes. Now I know better haha. I have two and want about twenty more! I never did stunts on that bike. My first stunt bike was the same bike I have now – a 2006 Kawasaki 636. It took me about 6 months to “master” the wheelie. Ok, let’s be honest I am still not a master and never will be haha, but it took me about 6 months to easily ride a wheelie across the entire practice area.
What is your favorite stunt to do on a bike?
Scrapes! That is when you wheelie and scrape the tail (metal stunt bar) of the bike on the ground. I have titanium on mine, so it makes some sick sparks. It looks cool, feels cool, and it’s always a little challenging for me if I haven’t done it in a while… so it gets my adrenaline pumping.
Do you repair your bike(s) on your own, or do you stick to the stunt riding and leave that to the mechanics?
I actually do a lot of the repairs and maintenance on my own, or with the help of my boyfriend. However, sometimes I’m lazy and prefer to bring my bike to a mechanic for bigger jobs such as an engine swap – which I’m actually having done right now. It’s pretty fun to work on your own bike and understand how it works.
Has your popularity grown, due to stunt riding?
Only on social media, I think. I don’t really like to mention it randomly – but it does come up often in conversations such as when people ask “what are your hobbies?” When I tell them and then show them, I can see that some people go from semi-interested in me to very interested in me, haha.
Do you participate in a lot of motorcycle events?
I try to. I host a once a month all females ride and also go to local events. Sometimes I am in them, sometimes I just go to spectate. I would say in addition to the girls ride, I go on one large group ride or to one large motorcycle event at least once a month.
Tell us about one of your favorite events to attend, or participate in.
Anything motorcycle related is my favorite, haha. I love performing at shows, going on group rides, or just practicing with my friends. Every show and event bring new experiences and opportunities, so I really can’t pick just one. I will say that my favorite types of events are now Hollywood doubling or stunt extra events. Booking a job and going on set to perform, is something that I love. I have so much fun and get to meet some really cool people, and of course some sick celebs!
What advice do you have for any female looking to learn how to stunt ride?
Buy a bike, find someone local to ride with and go for it. Don’t make excuses, don’t give up. Just do it. If I can do it, anyone can do it. Just like anything else in this world that is worth it, it takes some time. If you feel it in your blood, you won’t need advice. You’ll know what to do and you will naturaly keep pushing yourself.
Outside of the bike scene, what are some of your favorite hobbies or interests.
Other than riding, I love to hike and keep in shape, whether it be some yoga in my bedroom or a bicycle ride. I love staying active. Love playing with my dog – a 13 year old Min Pin named MJ.
What do you think of the Bully Girl Apparel?
The apparel is really cute. I first saw it when my friend @nikki636 started rocking it. I love the old school jacket and the leggings. They look so good on her. I also like that they have the logo, but it’s not over powering. It’s simple and stylish.
What motto do you live by?
“You are only old when your dreams become regrets.” I love this quote/motto because often times I find myself saying, “I wish I did this when I was younger” or “I wish I got into such n such earlier.” This motto reminds me that you’re never too old to chase your dreams. It gives me the last bit of motivation I need to go for the things I want in life.
What do you think of Bully Girl Magazine?
I love it. I don’t have a bully, but I have a dog and I love all dogs. My boyfriend and I want to get a mini Bull Terrier for our next dog! Anyways, the magazine is packed full of gorgeous photos and good reads. I loved the article about misunderstanding the breed. I actually felt like I could relate to it personally. In the same way that people hear “bully” or “pitbull” and think bad dog, I feel like a lot of people hear “stunt rider” and think trouble maker or full of themselves. Stereotyping is unfortunate, especially when the stereotype gives a good thing a bad name. This magazine is awesome for bully owners, bull enthusiasts, and even those who may have their stereotypes about bullies. They should read up to learn more! There is so much passion that goes into this magazine, and so much passion from the owners to their four legged friends. <3
