Wayne Lumbasi
Women represent the most important demographic for the next generation of riders. They have increasingly become involved as riders and members of biker communities, but they are more likely to be passengers than riders on their own bikes.
Historically, women’s roles in the motorcycle culture have been subordinate to those of men, especially between the 1940s and the 1980s when men were the dominant riders.
Women riders have remained the fastest growing population in the motorcycle world. However, female motorcycle riders have not always been socially acceptable.
Although gender stereotypes may have played a huge role in associating men with motorcycles, women are demonstrating that they now have a place in biking. In many African nations, seeing a woman ride a bike not only grabs eyeballs but also makes heads turn. Times are changing and gender stereotypes need to be broken.
Women report that motorcycle riding gives them an adrenaline rush, allows them to clear their mind, and stimulates their brain. It takes a lot of logical, detailed thought to ensure a safe and secure ride to the destination, as well as to anticipate dangers, braking distances, speed, navigation, avoiding cars, and obstacles, and women found they had increased cognitive functioning after riding a motorcycle.
Some women noted that they go riding to get away from daily life chores and negativity, gaining a clearer head and increased focus in the process. Riding a bike gives women enough satisfaction and happiness that others report they do not need to look for other options to elevate their mood
More organized groups are being created, not only for female motorcyclists but for the motorcycle community at large. Being part of a group of riders-novice, or advanced gives females a sense of group belonging.
More women get into riding motorcycles each year. Whether to confront a personal challenge, break societal stereotypes about motorsports and gender, or to simply face a fear and get back on the bike after a crash. Female motorcyclists are leaving their mark on the motorcycle community.
With each passing season, they’re increasingly embracing adventure and the thrill of riding on two wheels, with zero intentions of slowing down anytime soon.
