Every year on my birthday, I challenge myself to do something I’ve never done before. This year, I found myself gripping the edges of a Suzuki GSX-R1000R Superbike, perched on the back of the bike, with retired professional racer Chris Ulrich as my driver. It was a thrill-seeker’s dream come true—an experience I had to share with my fellow mujeres.
The Road to This Moment
My passion for motorcycles was ignited on my birthday several years ago when I finally got my motorcycle license… the thing I had never done before. With my newly minted license in hand, it was time to chase my long-held dream.
Last year, we interviewed Patricia Fernandez for La Revista Mujer, the only female racer in the King of the Baggers racing class, and her story, her sheer will and magnificence, inside and out, inspired me to push my boundaries even further. I instantly regretted passing up the opportunity for a “Hot Lap” last year, so when I was given another chance, I seized it!
The Build-Up
Riding a superbike at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA)—a world-class track—is something most only dream of.
Chris Ulrich giving instructions prior to the ride
As I arrived to the track, surrounded by teams of racers and their crews, and the high pitched rev of some of the most skilled racers in the world riding on the track, I felt the anticipation crackling in the air.
Coming from a racing heritage, Chris Ulrich has been a fixture in the racing world before he began his personal career in 1996, and the thought of riding with someone who has given over 2,000 rides was both thrilling and reassuring.
Gearing Up
Outfitted in Alpinestars Stella gear—my favorite feminine cycling line—I felt comfortably protected (and blazing hot, I might add, in the 98 degree Texas summer heat). The suit hugged me perfectly, giving me the confidence I needed to embrace this wild ride.
Danielle getting helmet ready just before the hot lap ride
The Hot Lap Experience
As we geared up, Chris’s team briefed us on what to expect. With my heart racing and excitement bubbling, I let him know I was ready for the full experience—no holding back! And let me tell you, I was not disappointed.
The moment we hit the track, the sheer power of the bike was exhilarating. Acceleration felt like a rocket launch, and I quickly found myself leaning into turns, the red and white striped pavement that marks each curve mere feet away.
Danielle Becker at 150 m/hour hot lap with Chris Ulrich
With G-forces pressing me into the seat, I was thrown into a world of speed, agility, and adrenaline. We hit speeds of up to 158 mph, navigating one corners over 100 mph, and the feeling was nothing short of incredible!
The physical demands of the ride were unlike anything I had ever experienced or could have imagined. It required not only strength but also a deep connection with the bike.
Every lean, every acceleration, every brake had me fully engaged with the machine beneath me. In the one brief lap I was able to experience I realized racing requires a level of fitness and concentration that left me in awe of professional riders like Chris Ulrich.
Hot Lap Riders with Chris Ulrich at COTA
A Newfound Respect
By the time our thrilling four minutes ended, I was left breathless—not just from the speed, but from the profound respect I gained for the sport and its athletes. This wasn’t just about racing; it was about discipline, training, and an extraordinary level of skill and strength.
As I stepped off the bike, words failed me. The experience was a kaleidoscope of emotions, from joy to exhilaration, and even a hint of disbelief that I had just completed a hot lap on a superbike.
A Call to Action
Ready for speed!
For my fellow mujeres out there: if you ever get a chance to ride on a superbike, don’t let it pass you by! This adventure reminded me that life is a luxurious exciting adventure! Embrace new experiences and don’t pass up the opportunities when they come your way.
So gear up, find your passion, and go for that ride—who knows where it might take you! Here’s to more adventures and more opportunities to choose elite experiences. ¡Vamos!\
Follow Chris Ulrich on Instagram @chrisulrichracing18
