HARLEY-DAVIDSON SURVEY REVEALS MEN & WOMEN SHARE SIMILAR RIDING EXPERIENCES
Men and women may be diametrically opposed in many regards, but when it comes to riding a motorcycle, they share some very similar opinions and experiences. According to a nationwide survey commissioned by Harley-Davidson to find out what motivates men and women to grab life by the handlebars – and remain in the saddle – the opposite sexes enjoy many parallel motivations.
For one thing, the survey found that 77% of the male and 67% of the female riders interviewed agreed that learning to ride a motorcycle was a life-altering experience because it increased the freedom and adventure in their lives. More than 3 in 4 riders, both male and female, also responded that freedom and adventure continues to be the reason they keep on riding.
"This survey confirms what we've been hearing for years, that women and men both are seeking the freedom and adventure the sport of motorcycling can offer," said Leslie Prevish, Women's Outreach Manager for Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "That said, while men and women ride for many of the same reasons, the survey did confirm that a large percentage of women riders feel the sense of empowerment, strength and increased confidence."
The survey found that nearly half of female riders said they love seeing the surprised looks on men's faces when they realize they're a female rider. "That moment has definitely become one of life's little joys," added Thorne.
While spotting a woman behind the handlebars still isn’t as commonplace as a spotting a man, the gender gap is closing fast as woman account for 23% of all riders now, up from 18% five years ago, reports the Motorcycle Industry Council. In fact, today’s female riders account for 12% of all new motorcycle sales, and Harley-Davidson sells more than 11% of its new motorcycles to women, which is an 8% increase in the past decade.
'Harley Girls' Promote Women Ridership
Harley-Davidson is leading the way in promoting female motorcycle ownership and riding, according to Leah, 24, from Brooklyn, N.Y., spokesperson for the newest sensation from the Motor Company. They are the “Harley Girls,” or more correctly the Motor Street Team from Harley-Davidson, Inc. “Our purpose is to promote and showcase female motorcycle ridership for Harley-Davidson,” adds Leah, as the group parked their bikes – various 2010 Harley-Davidson models – along Main Street in downtown Sturgis, the group’s first official gig.
Leah said that she and the six other members of the team went through an interview process to be selected. “All of us have at least five years of motorcycle riding experience,” she said. The team made special appearances throughout Bike Week, including rides to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse monument, the Vet’s Don’t Forget Fall River Freedom Ride parade, and a stop in Rapid City, S.D., where Harley-Davidson celebrated “Women’s Day” with special activities at the Civic Center. “Since this is our first time together, we are getting to know each other too,” Leah told a local newspaper. “All of these ladies are so talented. I am really happy to be a part of it all.”