7 Tips for Female Motorcycle Riders

Women make up an integral part of the motorcycle community. One in five riders now identifies as female, with the number of young female riders growing every year. So, what do women need to know about riding a motorcycle? The basics are essentially the same, but some women may need to adjust their riding style or position to make themselves more comfortable behind the wheel. Every rider also needs proper safety gear that fits their body size. Some gear and accessories may be too large for smaller women. Use this guide to make the most of your time on the road.

Use the Proper Safety Gear

Riding a motorcycle is not to be taken lightly. We’ve all seen photos of women wearing next to nothing on the back of a motorcycle, but that’s just not how it’s done. You will need to cover most of your skin to protect yourself from the elements. That means no riding around in a tank top. You’ll need a thick pair of pants (i.e., jeans), gloves, boots, a long-sleeve jacket, and a riding helmet. You can wear either a full-face helmet or a half-face helmet with goggles.

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Make Sure It Fits

All your clothing should fit properly to limit the amount of excess fabric flapping in the wind. Regardless of which type of helmet you choose, it needs to fit your head properly. The size of your head has little to do with your gender or body size, so make sure you try it on before hitting the road. Finding the right gear and clothing that fits can be a challenge for lots of women riders. You may need to try on several different pairs and sizes before you find the one.

Use Helmet Communication

Pair your helmet with a helmet communication device so you can access the features of your phone or GPS hands-free while riding. We have all become accustomed to using technology just about every second of the day. You never know when you might need to respond to a text or phone for help in an emergency. The device also works as a radio, letting you connect to multiple riders at the same time. It’s perfect for traveling in a group or connecting to your trainer as you learn the ins and outs of riding.

The device should mount directly onto your helmet without making it uncomfortable to wear. If you’re wearing a half-face helmet or skull cap, use a half-face Bluetooth headset with an adjustable microphone to keep in touch.

Use Motorcycle-Friendly Makeup

There’s nothing worse than hopping off your motorcycle only to discover that your makeup is running once you look in the mirror. If you decide to wear makeup while riding, choose a high-quality brand that’s designed to last 24 hours. Your eyeliner and mascara should both be waterproof so you can look your best when you arrive at your destination.

Keep Your Hair Contained

It’s usually best to keep your luscious locks inside your helmet if you have long hair. Anyone with long hair will tell you how frustrating it is to have long strands flying in your face when you’re trying to focus on the road. Consider wearing your hair in a ponytail to keep it out of the way while riding. Avoid using clips and ties that take up a lot of space, as they may make it uncomfortable to wear your helmet. Your hair should be tied at the back. You may need to adjust the helmet or use a larger size if your helmet no longer fits.

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Find the Right Size Motorcycle

Size matters when it comes to riding a motorcycle. Consider your height and body size when choosing a bike. You should be able to sit down and still reach the controls with your feet touching the ground. Most women prefer a middleweight bike, but there’s no reason to start with a smaller engine unless you want to. It all depends on your comfort level, how fast you want to ride and where you plan on driving. Consider using a bike with an adjustable seat to give yourself enough legroom.

Learn Routine Maintenance

You’ll need to learn how to maintain your motorcycle to avoid damaging your bike. This includes changing the oil, cleaning the chain, adjusting the tire pressure and keeping the exterior clean. Check your owner’s manual for more information on how to go about performing these tasks. You may need a few tools and supplies to get the job done, but it’s always much cheaper and easier to repair the bike yourself than to take it to a professional — especially when it comes to minor fixes and tune-ups. You don’t want to get stuck on the side of the road because you neglected an important issue.

It’s never too late to start riding a motorcycle. Men and women have been enjoying the sport for generations. Use these tips to master the art of riding so you can feel the wind at your back.

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