Many people wonder why women ride motorcycles. And lets be honest, a woman rider will turn some heads. Women who don’t ride usually don’t get it. “Why would you want to ride a motorcycle when you can be in the comfort of a nice car?” they ask. So today I’m asking, what are some of the reasons why women choose to ride a motorcycle? I’ve come up with a few thoughts of my own…

Some women ride for the sheer excitement of riding. Feeling the wind whip by, the pavement so close, the speed. It can certainly be exhilarating. And riding can be fun, especially if you’re riding with a large group. Being able to tour the country on just a small bike can be very attractive for some women.

A few women I know ride to save money. Though they may not have began riding for this reason, they typically find themselves riding more often, and for more than just a hobby as the economy goes down and costs rise. Motorcycles will get great gas mileage, and aside from some minor tune-ups, they typically cost less than a car to maintain. And insurance for motorcycles is far less than insurance for a car or truck.

Women ride for the challenge, or to “be one of the guys.” Most people immediately associate men with riding, all the more reason for women to prove that notion wrong. Some women really enjoy taking part in things that are typically geared towards men. It empowers them. And riding can definitely be a challenge. Riding takes practice, and getting used to balancing and handling. Riding a bike can make one feel more “in control” then just driving a car.

Of course, women ride for a variety of different reasons, some, which I’m sure they can’t even name. But I often wonder, when it’s pouring or stifling hot, do you think, “What am I doing? Why do I even ride?”

So tell us, why do you ride?

-Julie