Getting to know more our members - Marion Spiteri

From Passenger to Passion: A Journey on Two Wheels

Interviewer Oliver Cassar

Introduction

What starts as curiosity can sometimes turn into a lifelong passion — and that’s exactly what happened to Marion Spiteri. Growing up in a Maltese family abroad, motorcycles were never part of her world. Yet, years later, a chance encounter and a shared love of adventure set her on a path that would completely change her life.

In this interview, Marion shares how her passion began, the adventures that shaped her, and the experiences that continue to fuel her love for the open road.

Growing up in a Maltese family abroad, did your upbringing influence your interest in motorcycles, or was it a later passion?

Growing up abroad didn’t influence my interest in motorcycles at all. In fact, it never crossed my mind that one day I’d learn to ride or even own one. My family was never into bikes.

What sparked your love for motorcycles?

Eight years ago, I met my partner, Frank Camilleri — a Harley enthusiast and dedicated biker. His passion for motorcycles was contagious! My very first ride was on his Vespa Primavera 125… and honestly, I was scared to death. Later, I tried the pillion seat on an Electra Glide — a much more comfortable experience! I was nervous at first, but soon got used to the feel. Sunday rides, meeting new friends, and touring abroad began to really appeal to me. The love I have for motorcycles today grew gradually — but I must say, pillion life is indeed very comfortable.

Tell us about your daily rides on your Vespa 125. Do you notice a big difference in your daily commuting?

I’ve had my Vespa for two years now and use it nearly every day, especially for commuting to work. It helps me practice balance and riding while preparing for when I’m licensed for a larger bike. A Vespa is convenient — no traffic jams, easy parking, and very practical overall.

You’re working on getting your license for larger bikes. What inspired that decision? Was it always a dream of yours?

Yes, I’m in the final stages of getting my Category A license. At first, I wasn’t sure about handling a larger bike, but once I gained confidence on my Vespa, I wanted to experience more. And let’s face it — Harleys are simply amazing machines!

Rumour has it you’ve recently acquired a beautiful Harley! Can you tell us more?

That’s true! I haven’t ridden it yet, but my future rides will definitely be on my “Bob.” A year ago, I saw a Harley Davidson 114 Orange Street Bob during a visit to the newly inaugurated Harley Davidson showroom in Cosenza, Italy. I fell in love with it instantly and couldn’t get it out of my mind. I promised myself that one day, it would be mine — and now it is!

You’ve travelled to America with Frank. What were some highlights from that trip?

We had been dreaming about riding Route 66 for two years. Since we couldn’t ship our own Harleys, we rented a Harley Davidson Glide — the perfect choice for long-distance comfort. It would have felt wrong to ride anything else! At first, we were told bad weather would prevent us from reaching Route 66, which would have been a huge disappointment. But, as true bikers, we set out on our own and eventually reached Kingman, Arizona — where we took some unforgettable photos under the famous Route 66 sign.

We experienced every season along the way — from the heat in Orlando, Florida, to snow at the Grand Canyon in Arizona. When conditions got too harsh, we visited the Canyon by car.

Crossing states was breath-taking — endless roads, stunning desert landscapes, and one of my favourites: Big Bend National Park in Texas. Though it’s technically a desert, the colours and vastness are simply mesmerizing. And of course, we brought home memories — Harley merchandise, pins, magnets, and over 3,300 photos of our adventure!

What’s been your favourite road trip so far?

Definitely America. Riding beyond Europe is a completely different experience. But other unforgettable trips include touring all around Greece (departing from Malta) and attending Harley Davidson’s 120th Anniversary in Budapest. That trip took us across the Alps, Austria, Romania, Serbia, Montenegro, and Albania before returning to Malta via Bari and Sicily.

Any memorable experiences or events with your group, locally or abroad?

Yes! This year I organized and joined a “solo” trip — not truly alone, but with the Ladies of Harley group, led by our LOH Officer Phyllis Stafrace. We travelled to Reggio Emilia for the Ladies National Run 2025, an event promoting awareness against cancer and domestic violence. We proudly contributed our donations and were part of an incredibly well-organized and meaningful event.

Looking ahead, what are your priorities with motorcycles — travel, events, or new goals?

My main goal now is to get my full license and finally experience my own Harley. I’d love to travel abroad on my bike someday, but that will take some good practice. Of course, pillion life won’t end — we’re already planning to attend the European Bike Week 2026 at Faaker See, Austria!

When you’re not riding, how do you spend your free time? We hear you’re an animal lover!

Absolutely! I’ve always loved animals, especially dogs. I’ve had dogs most of my life, and currently I have Bella — a beautiful black mix between a German Shepherd and a Pointer. She’s incredibly intelligent, and the only thing she’s missing is the ability to talk! She misses me terribly when I travel. I can’t resist petting dogs — even abroad, I’ll stop to take photos with them (to Frank’s amusement… or sometimes frustration!).

Do you have any hobbies outside of motorcycles?

Yes, though I don’t have much time for them lately. I love painting and fishing. I even chose Art in secondary school, and some of my drawings are still displayed at the school I attended! As for fishing, it’s my way to unwind — not about catching fish, but about sitting by the sea, enjoying the calm, and recharging.

Final Thoughts

Motorcycling has opened a new chapter in my life — one filled with freedom, friendship, and adventure. It’s not just about the bike, but about the community, the shared passion, and the feeling you get when the road stretches endlessly ahead. What started as fear has turned into love, and what began as curiosity has become a way of life. I’m grateful for every ride, every journey, and every person I’ve met along the way — because together, they’ve all shaped the rider I’m becoming.