Women Motorcyclists in the UK: Who’s Riding, What They Ride, and Why It’s Growing?
Motorcycling in the UK has long been viewed as a male-dominated activity, but the reality is slowly changing. While women remain a minority of riders, their numbers are increasing, their presence is becoming more visible, and their influence on the motorcycle market is growing.
This article looks at the latest UK statistics on female motorcyclists — who they are, what they ride, and why more women are choosing two wheels.
How Many Women Ride Motorcycles in the UK?
Women currently account for around 8–13% of UK motorcyclists, depending on how the figures are measured (licence holders, insurance data or vehicle ownership).
To put that into context:
- The UK has approximately 1.4–1.5 million licensed motorcycles
- An estimated 70,000–100,000 motorcycles are owned or regularly ridden by women
- Female riders represent around 8% of UK motorcycle insurance policies
- Several thousand women complete a CBT or full motorcycle licence each year
While women remain under-represented overall, the data consistently shows gradual year-on-year growth, particularly among new riders.
Are More Women Riding Now?
Yes — slowly, but consistently.
Women make up a larger share of new riders than they did a decade ago, even as overall UK motorcycle ownership has remained relatively stable. Growth is strongest in:
- CBT and entry-level licence candidates
- Urban commuters
- Lifestyle and leisure riders rather than performance-focused segments
Importantly, women are entering motorcycling faster than they are leaving it, making them one of the few growth demographics in UK riding.
What Age Are Female Motorcyclists?
Female riders span all adult age groups, but industry data shows clear trends.
Most common age ranges:
- 25–34 years – the largest group of new female riders
- 35–54 years – a strong and growing segment, including returning and late-start riders
Unlike historic trends, many women now start riding later in life, often once careers, finances or family commitments allow greater flexibility.
Motorcycling is no longer seen solely as a young person’s activity — particularly among women.
What Motorcycles Do Women Ride?
Women’s bike choices are shaped by confidence, ergonomics and purpose — not gender stereotypes.
Common categories include:
125cc and learner-legal motorcycles
- Most common entry point
- Popular for commuting, training and urban use
- Lightweight, economical and confidence-building
Mid-capacity road bikes (300–700cc)
- Standards, modern classics and parallel twins
- Favoured for balance, seat height and everyday usability
Cruisers, classics and touring bikes
- Particularly popular with older or returning riders
- Comfort, stability and styling often outweigh outright performance
Overall, women ride the same variety of motorcycles as men — choosing what suits their needs rather than expectations.
Why Do Women Choose to Ride?
Surveys and rider interviews show women’s motivations closely mirror those of male riders, with several recurring themes.
Freedom and independence
Motorcycling offers autonomy, escape from traffic and a strong sense of personal control.
Enjoyment and wellbeing
Many riders describe biking as a stress-reliever, confidence booster and positive influence on mental wellbeing.
Empowerment
Learning to ride, passing tests and mastering a motorcycle is frequently cited as personally empowering, particularly in a traditionally male-dominated space.
Community
Women-focused riding groups and clubs have grown rapidly, creating stronger social networks and support systems.
Practicality
Lower running costs, easier parking and faster urban commuting make motorcycles an attractive alternative to cars.
Challenges Still Facing Female Riders
Despite progress, barriers remain:
- Limited availability of properly fitting riding gear
- Persistent stereotypes within parts of the industry
- Training and club environments that can feel unwelcoming
- Fewer female role models in mainstream motorcycle media
That said, manufacturers, retailers and training schools are increasingly responding with better gear ranges, more inclusive marketing and women-friendly initiatives.
What This Means for the Motorcycle Industry
Women may still represent a minority of UK motorcyclists, but they are:
- One of the few growing rider demographics
- Influencing motorcycle ergonomics and gear design
- Expanding the lifestyle and leisure side of motorcycling
- Helping modernise riding culture and perceptions
The future of UK motorcycling depends on attracting new riders — and women are clearly part of that future.
So what are the key Takeaways?
- Women make up around 1 in 10 UK motorcyclists
- Female rider numbers are slowly but steadily increasing
- Riders span all adult age groups
- Bike choices are driven by practicality, comfort and enjoyment
- Freedom, empowerment and community are major motivations
No comments:
Post a Comment