Interview with Ria the Welder, creator of custom sissy bars

MEET RIA THE WELDER

From the back of a bike to the front of her own welding shop, Ria has built a life fueled by passion and creativity. She has crafted some of the most eye-catching custom sissybars for our motorcycle giveaways, all while balancing motherhood and a thriving small business. In a world where women are often underestimated, she proves every day that she belongs—in the shop, on the bike, and wherever else she damn well pleases.

Read on to learn more about Ria’s journey—from finding her independence on two wheels to forging a career in welding, the challenges of running her own business, and the dedication that drives her to create one-of-a-kind pieces for riders everywhere.

BEGINNINGS

On motorcycleS:

I started on the back like many women do. Riding with boys when I was younger... I got on my own bike in 2013. I took a course that my ex-boyfriend got me for my birthday and became a pro. I started on a little ‘99 Sportster and upgraded to a ‘98 Dyna at one point; but I didn't love it, so I sold the Dyna and bought another 99 sportster– HAHAH. I've made a few fun upgrades and that's what I ride now. Her name is Fiona.

Riding is freedom. It's where I can be and leave all worries behind. There is nothing like feeling the wind in your face from the crack of a throttle. Riding has completely changed my life.

Now I have a 5 year old son who I can share riding with. He loves motorcycles, and I'm happy to continue living in the moto world and share with the next gen.

On weldinG:

I was tired of what I was doing.. I needed a lifestyle change, a career and more money.

I went to an exploratory trade program where I was able to try out a handful of trades.. painting, cement finishing, tiling, pipe fitting, and welding. I loved welding so much that they pulled me from the exploratory program and put me right in a welding class. Best thing I ever did for myself and my career.

INSPIRATION

It wasn't until I started welding school that I realized what I was good at. My first project in welding school was a sissybar and it took off from there. Art inspires me. Making something creative that somebody loves and uses inspires me.

When I started welding, I was inspired by doing a job that was intended for men to do. Proving that I could do it as a woman was inspiring as fuck.

It was at the point where I was working my first job and men who I worked with would ask me for a hand, or for advice on something, when I really knew I was in the right career.

Making something from nothing.

**“If you're feeling inspired to do something, do it. Get on the bike. Get in the shop. Do what YOU WANT. It's your life to live.”**

CRAFT

I used to work at big shops building industrial stuff. I also built truck parts for big rigs and for the military. I gave that up to build custom sissybars from my home shop.

It has taken me years to collect the tools and everything I need to have my own shop. Including a shop.

Now I get to wake up, take my kid to school.. and go into the shop to let my creative juices flow.

But it doesn't end there. I am constantly back and forth with emails and Instagram talking with people about their bars. I am the shipping department, designer, welder, maintenance, custodian, HR, and customer service department as well. Running your own business is no light feat.. if you don't like free time, then definitely start your own business!