Riding into the Unknown: Do Girls Like Motorcycles?

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Do girls like motorcycles? It’s a question that has likely been asked for as long as motorcycles have been around. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, it’s safe to say that motorcycles can be enjoyed by people of all genders.

It seems that for many girls, the answer is a resounding yes. Today, female motorcycle ridership is on the rise in many parts of the world, with women finding the freedom and exhilaration of motorcycle riding to be a deeply fulfilling experience. 

Read on to find out more reasons why there are an increasing number of girls that like motorcycles

History Of Female motorcycle riders

The early history of motorcycles is closely tied to the history of the internal combustion engine. The first gasoline-powered motorcycle was built in 1885 by German inventors Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach.

However, it was not until the early 20th century that motorcycles began to be mass-produced and widely available to the public.

In the early days of motorcycle history, women played a relatively small role as riders and manufacturers. However, a few notable female motorcycle pioneers made their mark on the industry. One such pioneer was Bertha Benz, the wife of Karl Benz, one of the inventors of the modern automobile.

Bertha made the first long-distance journey by automobile in 1888, driving her husband’s “Motorwagen” for a distance of about 106 kilometers (66 miles) in order to prove the practicality of the automobile.[Source]

As motorcycles became more popular in the 20th century, women began to play a larger role as riders and enthusiasts.

In the 1940s and 1950s, female motorcycle stunt riders such as Dot Robinson and Ann Young became popular attractions at carnivals and fairs. In the 1960s and 1970s, women such as Linda Dugeau and Pat Kennedy-Zafred became involved in the burgeoning motorcycle racing scene.

Today, women are an integral part of the global motorcycle community, with female riders participating in all aspects of the sport and industry.

Some challenges and obstacles faced by women in the motorcycle industry

Women have faced a number of challenges and obstacles in the motorcycle industry and as motorcycle enthusiasts over the years. Some of these challenges include:

Gender stereotypes and discrimination: Many people still hold the stereotype that motorcycles are a “man’s” hobby or mode of transportation. This can lead to women being treated differently or unfairly by others in the motorcycle industry or community, such as being excluded from certain events or not being taken seriously as riders.

Limited representation and role models: Historically, there have been relatively few female riders or industry professionals who were visible and well-known in the motorcycle world. This can make it harder for women to find role models or mentors, or to feel like they belong in the community.

Physical challenges: Riding a motorcycle can be physically demanding, especially for those who are not accustomed to it. Women may face challenges related to strength, endurance, or balance when learning to ride or participating in certain types of riding.

Safety concerns: Motorcycles can be more dangerous than other forms of transportation, and women may face additional safety concerns due to their smaller size and lower physical strength compared to men.

For example, they may be more vulnerable to injury in a collision or more likely to be involved in a crash due to their limited visibility on the road.

Despite these challenges, many women have overcome them to become successful and passionate motorcycle riders and industry professionals. By working together and supporting one another, women can help to create a more inclusive and diverse motorcycle community.

The current state of female motorcycle ridership

Here are a few general facts about female motorcycle ridership:

  • In the United States, the number of female motorcycle riders has been steadily increasing in recent years. According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, the number of female motorcyclists in the US increased by nearly 50% between 2003 and 2014.
  • In the United Kingdom, women make up around 20% of the motorcycle-riding population.
  • In Canada, the number of female motorcycle riders has also been increasing in recent years. According to data from the International Motorcycle Manufacturers Association, the number of female motorcycle riders in Canada increased by 11% between 2010 and 2015.
  • In Australia, the number of female motorcycle riders has also been increasing, with women making up around 20% of the riding population.

It is important to note that these are just a few examples, and the actual number of female motorcycle riders may vary significantly from one country or region to another.

Some Examples of successful female motorcycle riders in various disciplines

There have been many successful female motorcycle riders over the years, representing a wide range of disciplines and accomplishments. Here are a few examples:

Melissa Paris: Paris is a professional road racer who has competed in the AMA Superbike Championship and the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup. She has also raced in the World Superbike Championship and the Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race.

Maricel Mayor-Mora: Mayor-Mora is a professional motocross and supercross racer who has competed in the AMA Motocross Championship and the FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship. She has won numerous titles and is considered one of the most successful female motocross riders of all time.

Ashley Fiolek: Fiolek is a retired professional motocross and supercross racer who won two AMA Motocross Championships and one X Games gold medal. She is also known for her work as a motivational speaker and advocate for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

Laia Sanz: Sanz is a professional off-road motorcycle racer who has competed in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and the Dakar Rally. She has won numerous titles and is considered one of the most successful female off-road motorcycle riders of all time.

Ana Carrasco: Carrasco is a professional road racer who has competed in the FIM CEV Moto3 Championship and the Moto3 World Championship. In 2018, she became the first woman to win a motorcycle racing world championship at any level.

The appeal of motorcycles for women

There are many reasons why motorcycles may be appealing to women. Some of the most common reasons include:

Sense of freedom: For many women, motorcycles offer a sense of freedom and independence that is hard to find in other forms of transportation. The feeling of the wind in your hair and the open road ahead can be deeply liberating.

Adventure: Many women are drawn to motorcycles as a way to have new adventures and experiences. Whether it’s exploring back roads, touring new places, or tackling off-road trails, motorcycles offer a unique and exciting way to see the world.

Sense of accomplishment: Learning to ride a motorcycle and becoming proficient at it can be a challenging and rewarding experience. For some women, the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering this skill is a major appeal.

Connection to the road: For some women, motorcycles offer a deeper connection to the road and the environment around them. The sensory experience of riding a motorcycle – the sights, sounds, and smells – can be very immersive and satisfying.

Community: Many women find a strong sense of community and support within the motorcycle world. Whether it’s through riding clubs, online forums, or local events, there are many opportunities to connect with like-minded people and form lasting friendships.

Mark Nicholson
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