The World of Woman Motorcycle Riders is Growing

As little as ten years ago women made up only 3 percent of motorcycle riders. Now women represent 12 percent of motorcycle sales.

Women on two wheels are not only riding, they are leading motorcycle organizations, writing columns for motorcycling magazines, owning motorcycle accessory stores and contributing to motorcycle safety programs. One regional director for the Gold Wing Touring Association is a female.

Motorcycle sales have topped $20 billion and manufactures haven't failed to notice that women make up a significant amount of those sales. Motorcycle designers are focusing on women riders. Kawasaki is one manufacturer with a web page dedicate to women riders. There is an all women national motorcycle rally. Two years ago the town of Gettysburg, PA had two motorcycle rallies a couple of weeks apart. One was women only. Many local motorcycle organizations have women only rides.

Many motorcycle models are built to fit women riders. Women often have shorter inseams. Women tend to have more strength in their legs then men. Taller bikes have a higher center of gravity and are more difficult to handle, particularly at lower speeds. There are several models of motorcycles that have a lower center of gravity, and even though they may look big or heavy they are actually much easier to handle. Many men and women think starting with a small bike is a smart idea, while they learn and gain experience. A poor fitting small bike is actually worse than a much larger bike that does fit properly. Riders need to sit on motorcycles, lots of motorcycles, and see which one fits right. One critical point of fit often overlooked is the handlebars. Does the reach allow your arms to assume a natural position, or do you have to stretch? Another important point is the type of riding you plan to do. If you are going to ride one or two hours after work then pretty much any motorcycle will do. If you plan day trips and weekend rides, fit is by far more important.