Observations About Men and Woman Bikers
Over the last couple of years of riding, I have started to notice a few differences between men and women bikers. It really shouldn't be a surprise as we are different in everyday life. That is a good thing. It is our differences that make us stronger and life a little more fun. The observations I talk about in this video are by no means a comprehensive list, and there are always exceptions to each of these examples. These are just a few of the things I have noticed.
El Sancho Loco Taqueria in Newbury Park, CA
1) You are out riding when nature calls. I am talking about you cannot go 1 more mile or hit 1 more bump kinda call.
Men - All y'all need is a little discretion. A tree, a short wall, or maybe just turning your back to the road. I mean, seriously, on the back roads of Texas growing up, the guys would just pee on the tire before getting into the truck.
Women - We need a bit more. It takes some finesse, more balance and leg strength, and a lot more privacy because we practically have to undress. Just sayin'.
2) When getting ready to leave for a ride.
Men - Grab your wallet and sunglasses, helmet on… Let's go!
Women - First we have to decide what to do about the hair. Do we need a headband, a hair sock thing, should we braid it? I mean this stuff takes time! Then the decision of which jacket, which gloves, which sunglasses… You get the point.
3) Lets talk about riding positions… This is completely my opinion…
Men - From street bikes to ape hangers, most bikes are built to fit men. There are some things that y'all modify for comfort, but for the most part you can ride out of the dealership ready to go.
Women - All my experience is on cruisers and touring bikes and I have had to modify just about everything from seats to handlebars to the suspension to the windshield to make it safe and comfortable for me to ride on. Example, I had to change the angle of my handlebars, change out the seat and suspension to be able to acquire the leverage I need. Seriously, I practically sit on the tank!
4) Lets talk packing for a trip. This one is not so much men/women. Almost without exception, when two people are going on a road trip one can pack for a 10 day ride in one saddle bag. ONE! The other needs both saddlebags, expandable motorcycle luggage, and a roll back strapped on top. Okay… That is me. What?!? I like to be comfortable when I travel.
5) Then there are the responses at stops. You step off the bike and…
Men - Others look at what you are riding, sometimes nod, occasionally there are 'nice bike' comments or a conversation about what you have done to the bike.
Women - This happens most when I am riding my Road King… the double takes start and I get one of a few reactions.
Arroyo Hondo Vista Point West of Santa Barbara, CA
There are still a few that will lead go wtih comments that range from "isn't that bike to big for you?" to "dammmmmmmm, you make that bike look good!" Okay Wind Sisters, we have all heard them. It is enough to make a girl forget the manners her mamma taught her.
Sometimes it is some that start a conversation about how he wishes their spouse/partner/bff would ride with them or get their license so they could take trips, etc. These are fun. You can see the real desire to in them to share the love of the road.
Now these are my favorites. When a woman gets brave enough to approach me and ask how I learned to ride, how she can do it, do I have any advice. I love supporting other women who just need that last little bit of encouragement to signup for and take the course.
Can you think of any others? I am sure that we could go on and on about this. The bottom line, being different can be a good thing. It brings different strengths and skills and points of view to our lives. When we embrace them, life is much more colorful and vibrant.
Now get out and ride, have fun, be safe, and catch you in the next post……
