Hi everyone! I am Brianna, I’m a nurse living in Minnesota who did not grow up around or riding motorcycles. My first experience on a motorcycle was a Yamaha 230 dirt bike at about the age 16 when my stepdad Mike Butts (#65) was teaching me how to ride. By age 20 I got my motorcycle license by taking a basic safety course. I gained confidence by taking in some local street rides. As a family we would go to Colorado to dirt bike in the mountains and saw some of the most beautiful scenery I’ve ever seen, along with some of the most rugged terrain. I also learned that off road riding really helps you learn how to ride better and safer on the street.
My first experience with antique motorcycles was when Mike got into the Cannonball in 2018, I got the opportunity to be support crew for him. I learned how hard it was to keep these motorcycles running and to travel across the country on them. One day after the 2018 Cannonball, Mike mentioned that if I wanted to sign up for the Cannonball in 2021, he felt he would be able to get a bike together for me to ride. He thought it would be a great experience for me and felt there should be more young people and definitely more women in this sport. My experience did not go as expected. The first few days in Sault Ste. Marie were filled with nerves, excitement and determination. By the middle of Stage 3, I was enjoy this huge opportunity to ride back roads of this beautiful country with my stepdad and uncle. I was beyond thrilled for the upcoming adventure. The universe had other plans. Shortly after my grateful thoughts in Stage 3, I took a detour to the surgery suite in Grand Rapids, MI after obtaining an open compound tibial and fibula fracture. There was no question; I was continuing my journey – just in the support crew vehicle.
Two years later I was more determined than ever for the Cannonball 2023, I successfully made it across the United States on a 1929 Indian 101 Scout. It was such a rewarding moment.
I interact with people of all ages every day—through my work and on social media—and one thing that always sparks curiosity is my love for motorcycles. As soon as someone finds out I ride, the questions start rolling in. I’ve discovered that people, especially young women, are eager to learn more but often think riding—or wrenching—is out of reach. I’m here to change that.
I haven’t spent a lifetime working on bikes, but I’ve learned that with passion, a bit of grit, and mostly a supportive community, anything is possible. I thrive on adventure and love a good challenge and am lucky to have my own supportive community.
What excites me most is getting out of my comfort zone, bringing the beauty and soul of vintage motorcycles to a younger generation—and proving that this world isn’t just for the seasoned or the stereotypical. It’s for anyone with drive, curiosity, and heart. Especially the next wave of women riders.