What Does Real Progress for Women Motorcyclists Look Like Beyond Visibility?

I recently was asked this question and it's probably one of the best questions I have ever been asked. Over 13 years, my answer has evolved and become crystal clear. Real progress for women motorcyclists goes far beyond being seen in marketing campaigns or social media feeds. Let's dive in...

Visibility matters — but equity, access, safety, and influence matter more.

Here’s what real progress looks like to me:

1. Equal Access to the Industry

Not just women in ads — but women:

  • Designing bikes

  • Leading dealerships

  • Owning gear companies (I miss you so much Atwyld)

  • Building aftermarket parts

  • Sitting in executive rooms

When brands like Harley-Davidson or KTM consult women during product development — and not as an afterthought — that’s progress. 

True progress is when women’s feedback shapes the machine itself.

2. Gear That Fits — and Performs

We’ve moved beyond “shrink it and pink it,” but we’re not done.

Real progress looks like:

  • Protective gear built for female body geometry

  • Boots that account for calf size and ankle flexibility

  • Armor placement designed for women’s impact zones

  • Full technical options — not just lifestyle pieces

When a woman can walk into a dealership and choose from multiple performance-ready options instead of one token jacket, that’s progress.

3. Normalized Leadership in Riding Spaces

Progress looks like:

  • Women leading group rides

  • Women coaching track days

  • Women hosting ADV trainings

  • Women running rallies and events

It’s not radical. It’s normal.

Events like Babes Ride Out helped build that visibility — but the next phase is women not needing a “women-only” qualifier to be respected. 

4. Psychological Safety on the Road & Online

Progress looks like:

  • Fewer harassment stories

  • Safer dealership experiences

  • Mechanics who don’t talk down

  • Riding spaces where women aren’t “tested”

When a woman can show up solo to a rally and not feel like she has to prove her legitimacy — that’s cultural evolution.

5. Multi-Generational Growth

The biggest marker of real progress?

Young girls growing up assuming motorcycles are for them.

When a 6-year-old girl throws a leg over a dirt bike and no one calls it “brave for a girl” — that’s the future shifting.

Not exceptional. Just expected.

6. Representation in All Styles of Riding

Progress includes:

  • ADV

  • Track

  • Motocross

  • Enduro

  • Touring

  • Commuting

  • Stunt riding

  • Overlanding

Not just curated Instagram desert shots — but the full spectrum of skill and grit.

7. Policy & Structural Change

The ultimate form of progress?

  • Equal access to training programs

  • More women instructors in MSF programs

  • Insurance structures that don’t penalize women-owned businesses

  • Industry data that actually tracks women accurately

When institutions evolve — not just culture — that’s permanence.

Beyond Visibility: The Shift from Invitation to Ownership

Visibility says:
“You’re welcome here.”

Progress says:
“This is yours too.”


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