Pioneers

Stories on women motorcycling pioneers including the Van Buren sisters, Vivian Bales, Della Crewe, Hazel Kolb, and more!

Elspeth Beard: One of the First British Woman to Ride a Motorcycle Around the World, Alone

In 1982, at just 23 years old, Elspeth Beard set off on a 2-1/2 year, 35,000-mile solo adventure around the world on her 1974 BMW R60/6 motorcycle. With almost no money, but a voracious appetite to experience faraway cultures by way of two wheels, she became one of the first British woman to accomplish such a feat. Read about this incredible pioneer and find out how you can join WRN on a ride with Elspeth.

Elspeth Beard: One of the First British Woman to Ride a Motorcycle Around the World, Alone

Effie Hotchkiss —  Pioneer for Women in Motorcycling Honored by AMA

More than a century ago, Effie and Avis Hotchkiss set out on their Harley-Davidson 11-F sidecar rig from Brooklyn, New York, to complete their 9,000 mile, two-month trek to San Francisco and back. The harrowing journey was a first for women, who weren’t even allowed to dress the way they wanted back then. WRN congratulates Effie’s family with her recent induction to the AMA Hall of Fame.

Effie Hotchkiss —  Pioneer for Women in Motorcycling Honored by AMA

Book Review: The MotoLady’s Book of Women Who Ride: Motorcycle Adventurers, Racers, Builders, Pioneers & More

The MotoLady’s new book highlights women motorcyclists from around the globe who have contributed to the heritage of motorcycling in a big way. Colorful imagery and words honor female racers, stunters, customizers, creators, influencers, and history-makers.

Book Review: The MotoLady’s Book of Women Who Ride: Motorcycle Adventurers, Racers, Builders, Pioneers & More

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