Biography:
Cris Sommer Simmons, a trailblazer in the world of motorcycling, is known for her unmatched passion and devotion to the two-wheeled machines. Her lifelong love affair with motorcycles began at a young age when, at nine years old, she eagerly climbed onto her step-father’s motorcycle as a passenger. By the age of 14, she acquired her first motorcycle, a Yamaha Twin jet 100, and at 19, she proudly owned her first Harley. Since then, Cris has never looked back and has been riding motorcycles ever since.
As a testament to her dedication to the motorcycle community, Cris became a long-standing member of the Women’s International Motorcycle Association and played a pivotal role in founding both the 2nd Chapter of Women in the Wind in 1984 and the world’s first motorcycle magazine for women, Harley Women, in 1985. For over five years, she served as co-publisher and editor of the magazine, often venturing cross-country on her motorcycle to uncover stories about women riders.
It was during one such journey in 1989 that Cris had a serendipitous encounter that would change her life forever. She crossed paths with her future husband, Patrick Simmons, a renowned rocker and avid motorcycle enthusiast from the band Doobie Brothers. Their shared passion for motorcycles bound them together, and they embarked on a journey of love and adventure.
Throughout the late 1980s, Cris garnered considerable recognition as a representative and advocate for the increasing number of women who rode their own motorcycles. Her captivating presence led to numerous appearances on national newspaper articles, radio shows, and television talk shows, further solidifying her influential role in the motorcycling community.
In recognition of her immense contributions, Cris received an Honorary Lifetime Membership to Women in the Wind in 1988. Her devotion to motorcycles continued as she became a member of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America, a Lifetime Harley Owners Group (HOG) member, and a Motor Maid. Additionally, she spent 25 years as an active member of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA).
In 1990, Cris earned a well-deserved honor as a pioneering woman motorcyclist when the American Motorcycle Association included her in their Women in Motorcycling exhibit at the AMA’s museum in Westerville, Ohio. This recognition solidified her status as a trailblazer and paved the way for future generations of women riders.
Having established herself as a prominent figure in the motorcycling world, Cris sold her interest in Harley Women and transitioned into a 15-year career as a freelance motorcycle journalist. She contributed extensively to renowned magazines such as American Iron, Motorcycle Collector, Iron Works, Easyriders, and V-Twin. Her expertise also reached beyond U.S. borders as she wrote for magazines in Japan, Spain, and Australia. For over 12 years, Cris became a household name in the popular Japanese Harley magazine Hot Bike Japan, where she penned her own column.
In 1994, Cris took her talents to the realm of children’s literature and authored the critically acclaimed book, Patrick Wants to Ride. This award-winning children’s motorcycle book earned her the prestigious Brighter Image MVP Award from the AMA. With the book now in its third printing and over 12,000 copies sold, Cris left an indelible impact on young readers and motorcycle enthusiasts alike.
Her prominence in the motorcycle world continued to grow, as she was featured in the original Turner Broadcasting documentary Biker Women in 1995. The documentary, which highlighted four women motorcyclists, garnered widespread praise and set viewing records for an original documentary that year.
In 2003, Cris achieved a significant milestone in her career as she was inducted into both the National Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Anamosa, Iowa and the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Westerville, Ohio. These prestigious accolades recognized Cris as a pioneer and trailblazer in the motorcycling community, further solidifying her unparalleled contribution to the world of motorcycles.
Her impact on the motorcycle world was further cemented in 2008 when she joined the ranks of the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame. This recognition honored her exceptional dedication and influence on the motorcycle community, particularly for her efforts in promoting women’s involvement in the sport.
In July of 2009, Cris released her highly acclaimed book, The American Motorcycle Girls 1900-1950. This remarkable publication remains one of the top-selling motorcycle books, offering a glimpse into the often-overlooked history and contributions of women riders.
Cris Sommer Simmons’s unwavering passion, groundbreaking initiatives, and unwavering commitment have not only left an indelible mark on the motorcycling world but have also inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to embrace their love for motorcycles and defy gender stereotypes. Her trailblazing spirit and tireless advocacy continue to shape the landscape of women’s history in the world of motorcycles.
Awards:
– Honorary Lifetime membership to Women in The Wind (1988)
– Brighter Image MVP Award from the AMA for Patrick Wants to Ride (1994)
– Inducted into the National Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Anamosa, Iowa (2003)
– Inducted into the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Westerville, Ohio (2003)
– Inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame (2008)