Subhadra, a 76-year-old daredevil from India, earned the title “Biker Queen” after conquering the treacherous Nathula Pass at over 14,000 feet with the CRF Women on Wheels group. Riding a sturdy Royal Enfield through Sikkim, Nepal, and Bhutan, she defied age stereotypes and high-altitude challenges in late 2025.
Her journey, celebrated across social media as “Nari Shakti” in action, proves adventure knows no bounds.
Defying Odds on High-Altitude Roads
High-altitude routes like Nathula Pass near the India-China border demand exceptional endurance, with thin oxygen triggering headaches and fatigue. Yet, Subhadra and her Bengaluru-based crew—Swapna Kaniti, Anitha Karshyap, Sesha Nagesh, and Seema Warrier—pushed through steep gradients and rough terrain. Starting from Bengaluru, they navigated unforgiving paths, relying on mental grit and supplemental oxygen. At the summit, hugs and the national flag marked triumph, crediting the Border Roads Organisation for smooth roads. This feat highlights how women riders challenge male-dominated biking norms.
CRF Women on Wheels: Empowering Riders
Founded in 2016 by Fais N., CRF Women on Wheels has trained over 1,000 women across states, fostering confidence on two wheels. The group emphasizes trust in body and mind over proving points. Subhadra’s silver hair under her helmet became an iconic symbol during the expedition. Consequently, viral Instagram videos showcase their joy, amplifying messages of inclusivity. Similar trailblazers like Ahmedabad’s “Biker Dadis” (87 and 84) and Canada’s Betty Birrell reinforce this global sisterhood.
Impact: Inspiring a New Generation
Subhadra’s ride sparks conversations on ageism in adventure sports. Social media buzz portrays her as proof that vitality trumps years, motivating women to hit the road. In India, where heavy bikes like Royal Enfield evoke young male riders, her story shifts perceptions. Moreover, it underscores community power—group rides build resilience against doubts and physical strains.
| Rider Profile | Challenge Tackled | Key Achievement |
| Subhadra (76) | Altitude sickness, steep climbs | Nathula Pass summit |
| CRF Group | Gender stereotypes | 1,000+ women trained since 2016 |
| Biker Dadis | City traffic | Scooter sidecar at 87/84 years |
| Betty Birrell | Technical trails | 30+ years mountain biking |
Questions Fueling the Buzz
Can a 76-year-old truly master high-altitude biking? What drives women-only riding groups? How does Subhadra’s story redefine adventure?
Q&A: Behind the Biker Queen’s Ride
Q: Who is the 76-year-old biker queen?
A: Subhadra, who rode Royal Enfield to Nathula Pass with CRF Women on Wheels.
Q: What route did they take?
A: From Bengaluru through Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan to 14,000-ft Nathula Pass.
Q: Why join an all-women group?
A: CRF builds skills and breaks stereotypes, training 1,000+ riders.
Q: How did they handle altitude?
A: Mental focus, supplemental oxygen, and team support overcame breathlessness.
FAQ
What bike did Subhadra ride?
Royal Enfield, tackling heavy-duty high-altitude terrain.
When was the Nathula expedition?
Late 2025, part of CRF’s ongoing adventures.
What is CRF Women on Wheels?
All-women collective since 2016, empowering female bikers nationwide.
Any similar inspiring riders?
Yes, like Canada’s 76-year-old Betty Birrell and India’s Biker Dadis.
