Advice for Women Thinking About Their First Motorcycle
Over the past 24 years of riding, I’ve had countless conversations with women who are curious about motorcycles but aren’t sure where to start. Some are excited but nervous, while others simply wonder if riding is something they could actually do.
If you’ve ever thought about learning to ride, you’re not alone. More women are entering the motorcycling world every year, and the riding community is becoming more welcoming and diverse because of it.
Here are a few things I often share with women who are thinking about getting their first motorcycle.
Start with Training
One of the best first steps is taking a motorcycle rider training course. These courses are designed to teach the basics of motorcycle control, safety, and confidence in a controlled environment.
Rider training allows new riders to:
learn proper riding techniques
build confidence at their own pace
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understand safety fundamentals before riding on public roads
Many riders — both men and women — say their training course was one of the most valuable experiences in their riding journey.
Choose the Right Bike for You
When choosing a first motorcycle, comfort and confidence matter far more than size or power.
A good beginner motorcycle should allow you to:
comfortably reach the ground with your feet
easily control the bike at low speeds
feel confident while learning
The goal is to choose a motorcycle that helps you build skill and confidence. As your experience grows, you can always move up to something different later.
Invest in Proper Riding Gear
Safety gear is one of the most important parts of riding. Fortunately, there are now more options than ever designed specifically for women.
Quality riding gear includes:
a properly fitted helmet
protective jacket and gloves
riding boots
riding pants with protection
Good gear not only protects you but also makes riding more comfortable and enjoyable.
Find a Supportive Riding Community
One of the best parts of motorcycling is the community. There are many riding groups, classes, and events that welcome new riders and help them grow their confidence.
Having supportive riders around you can make the learning process more fun and less intimidating.
Take Your Time and Enjoy the Process
Learning to ride is a journey, not a race. Every rider develops skills at their own pace.
The most important thing is to enjoy the experience, build confidence gradually, and remember why you started in the first place — the freedom and excitement that comes with riding.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycling is an incredible experience that offers freedom, focus, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match.
If you’ve been thinking about learning to ride, don’t let intimidation hold you back. With the right training, the right motorcycle, and the right mindset, riding can become a lifelong passion.
And the growing number of women riders proves that the road truly is open to everyone.