How to Make Friends at a Women’s Motorcycle Event (Even If You Came Solo)
We have a TON of riders who come solo to each Babes Ride Out events and the most common feeling they all have is "NERVOUS". We hope this blog eases those feelings of all the new gals we will welcome in 2026!
Facts: Walking into a women’s motorcycle event for the first time can feel intimidating. New faces. Loud bikes. Tight-knit groups that look like they’ve known each other forever. But here’s the truth most riders won’t say out loud:
Almost everyone is hoping someone talks to them first.
Whether you’re brand new to riding or you’ve been in the saddle for years, women’s motorcycle events are one of the easiest places to make real, lasting friendships—if you know how to approach it. Here’s how to show up, break the ice, and leave with more than just photos.
1. Arrive With the Right Mindset
You don’t need a plan or a personality overhaul. You just need to remember this:
You already belong there.
Everyone came for the same reason—to ride and connect. Instead of thinking “OMG everyone is staring at me and I have no idea what's happening” try “Who might I connect with today?” That shift alone makes conversations feel natural instead of forced.
2. Compliment the Bike (It’s the Universal Icebreaker)
Motorcycles are basically social magnets. A simple:
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“I love your paint job—what year is it?”
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“That seat looks comfy, how do you like it on long rides?”
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“Is that your first bike or an upgrade?”
…can turn into a 30-minute conversation before you know it. Bike questions are easy, genuine, and instantly give you common ground.
3. Go to the Group Stuff (Even If It Feels Awkward at First)
Workshops, activities, new rider meet-ups, etc. —these are where friendships happen. Standing on the sidelines makes it harder to connect, so say yes when you can.
Pro tip: Sit next to someone who looks like they came alone too. Chances are, they did—and they’ll be relieved you said hi.
4. Feel Free to Be Honest About Being New
You don’t need to pretend you’ve done this a hundred times. Saying:
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“This is my first women’s riding event”
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“I came solo and wasn’t sure what to expect”
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“I’m still pretty new to riding”
…actually makes you more approachable. Vulnerability builds connection faster than confidence ever will.
5. Ask About Their Riding Story
People love sharing how they got into riding. Ask things like:
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“What got you into motorcycles?”
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“What’s been your favorite ride so far?”
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“Do you mostly ride solo or with a group?”
These questions open the door to shared experiences—and often lead to “You should ride with us sometime.”
6. Don’t Try to Meet Everyone—Find Your Few
You don’t need 500+ new friends. Or do you? JK! One or two solid connections can change your entire experience. Focus on quality conversations :)
And if a conversation doesn’t click? That’s okay. There are plenty of other women there who will.
7. Follow Up After the Event
Friendships don’t end when the engines shut off. Follow each other on social, send a message, or comment on a ride photo. A simple:
“So good meeting you this weekend—let’s ride soon!”
…goes a long way.
Final Thought: You’re Not Interrupting—You’re Invited
Women’s motorcycle events exist to build community. You’re not crashing anything. You’re not “too new,” “too quiet,” or “too different.”
You’re exactly who these spaces are made for.
Show up. Say hi. Compliment the bike. The friendships will follow. 🖤🏍️
