A Guide to Motorcycling for Women
By Esther Shaw
Motorcycling was once a male-dominated activity, and biker chicks rode pillion, but more and more women are now donning leathers and a helmet and jumping into the rider's seat.
The number of females passing their motorcycle test has shot up in the past few years, and the macho world of motorbikes has been forced to surrender to something of a feminine invasion.
In fact, recent figures suggest that as many as 15 per cent (*) of all riders are now female - a total of around 525,000; and this figure is only set to head upwards as more and more girls get hooked on the buzz of a bike.
Why go by bike?
There are a number of reasons for the increase in female riders, including design improvements which have made motorbikes smaller, lighter, simpler to manoeuvre - and safer.
At the same time, bikes are increasingly seen as a nippier and cheaper alternative to a car - not forgetting the fact they are a lot easier to park.
There is also a strong sense of fun and freedom associated with hitting the open road on two wheels.
“Women from all walks of life are now participating in motorcycling,” says a spokeswoman from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA). “Women are increasingly becoming more involved in the world of motorbiking, and there are more reasons than ever for females to start riding, whether it is as a leisure activity, to reduce journey times, or to save money on transport.”
It's also worth noting that motorbikes are exempt from the congestion charge, and that you are doing your bit for the environment, as bikes have lower emissions.
Factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle
Given that physically, women tend to be smaller in mass, height, weight and leg length than men, what are the crucial factors to consider when buying a bike?
First off, you need to look at the height of the seat, as you must be able to touch the pavement when the bike is at rest. You also need to consider front wheel angularity, as this requires upper body strength - so shop around for a model with a moderate amount of angularity.
When riding your bike, you'll need to be able to adjust the controls easily; you also need to bear in mind that some of the hand controls require a great deal of hand strength which can be very tiring.
Controls are getting lighter and lever spans adjustable - making things easier for shorter arms and smaller hands - so look out for these features when selecting your bike.
Women bikers might also want to opt for a model with a lower centre of gravity for easier handling.
What are the best makes and models for women?
There are now a vast range of motorbikes to choose from, and while there are no specific “motorcycles for girls,” there are plenty of models that are suitable for women.
Modern sports motorbikes, for example, are incredibly light, powerful and easy to steer, and tend to be the most popular type of bike for women riders.
Models recommended by the Superbike Buyers Guide include the Aprilia RS125, Honda RVF NC35, Suzuki GSR600, the Triumph 675 and the Yamaha YZF-R6.
But make sure the bike you buy suits you; it may be an all-singing, all-dancing machine, but unless it's right for you, there's no point buying it.
Stay safe on the road
Findings show that safety is a key issue in motorcycling and almost half (**) of women riders said they were interested in improving their skills through further training; consider taking an advanced training qualification, such as the one run by the Institute of Advanced Motorists
Girls pay less in premiums
It's also worth noting that as a female rider, you may be entitled to a discount on your insurance, as according to various insurance providers, women are statistically much safer on two wheels than men - which means less risk to the insurer.
It may be possible to find an insurance policy discounted by up to 15 per cent if you take the time to shop around.
Notes:
(*) Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA)
(**) MCIA
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