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Sue Fish, a pioneering female motocross racer, left an indelible mark on the world of motorsports as one of the first women to compete and excel in this thrilling and demanding sport. Born in November 1958, Fish’s passion for motorcycles was ignited at a young age by her father, who himself had participated in dirt track and hare scrambles races.
Mary McGee was an American motorsport racing pioneer. She was the first woman to compete in motorcycle road racing and motocross events in the United States. McGee’s career spanned from 1960 to 1976, and she achieved remarkable feats along the way. She was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018.
Lillian La France (1894–1979) was a trailblazing woman who made her mark as the world’s foremost female motorcycle stunt rider during the 1920s and 1930s. Born Agnes Micek in Kansas, USA, she would go on to achieve great success and become an inspiration to women in a male-dominated field.
Vivian Bales (1909–2001) was a pioneering figure in the world of motorcycles and an icon of women’s history. Born in Florida and raised in Georgia, Bales made a lasting impact in the 1920s and 1930s with her long-distance motorcycle rides and daring stunts.
Gloria Tramontin-Struck, the matriarch of the women’s motorcycling community, has left an indelible mark on women’s history. With over 75 years of riding experience, she has transformed her life through her passion for motorcycles. From her shy beginnings to becoming an influential figure in motorcycle clubs and a pioneer for women riders, Gloria’s unwavering love for motorcycles has inspired generations of women to pursue their dreams on two wheels.
Margaret Wilson, a trailblazing female motorcyclist in post-World War II America, began her journey in 1946 when her husband surprised her with a Harley-Davidson. Overcoming physical obstacles, Margaret became an avid rider and covered over 550,000 miles on her motorcycles. Her dedication and impact on changing the perception of motorcycling earned her the nickname “golden gal” of motorcycling. Margaret’s involvement in motorcycle organizations showcased her commitment to the sport, and she was recognized as a Golden Life Member of the Motor Maids. Her passion for safety and achievements led to her being voted America’s Most Popular and Typical Girl Rider in 1958. Margaret Wilson’s contributions to motorcycling have made her a significant figure in women’s history.
Bessie Stringfield, known as the “Motorcycle Queen of Miami,” was a trailblazing figure in American motorcycling history. She became the first African-American woman to ride across the United States solo, breaking down barriers for women and African-American motorcyclists. Her extraordinary achievements and contributions to the motorcycling community have left an indelible mark on history. Stringfield’s love for motorcycles and the open road embodied the spirit of freedom and independence, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and challenge social norms.
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.
Linda “Jo” Giovannoni is an influential motorcycle journalist and rider who co-founded Harley Women magazine, the first national motorcycling publication devoted to women motorcycle enthusiasts. She appeared on various national shows and was featured in the book “Hear Me Roar” by Ann Ferrar. Giovannoni overcame her fear of riding motorcycles and became an active member of the motorcycle community, working in the parts department of a Harley-Davidson dealership and getting involved in organizations such as ABATE and Women in the Wind.
Dot Robinson, a pioneer in promoting motorcycling for women in the mid-20th century, founded the Motor Maids and broke barriers for women in the competition arena. Despite facing opposition, she persisted and paved the way for future women racers. Her legacy as a motorcyclist and advocate continues to inspire and empower women in the motorcycling community.
Mona Ehnes, born in 1939 in Missoula, Mont., has been a long-time champion for off-highway motorcyclists’ rights. She played a crucial role in the fight for motorcyclists’ rights in Montana and has dedicated her life to protecting off-highway vehicle recreation. Her advocacy work has earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2009. Mona Ehnes continues to inspire and motivate others to protect the sport they love.
Becky Brown is an influential figure in women’s history as the founder of the motorcycle riding organization Women in the Wind (WITW). Her dedication and passion for riding brought together women from different walks of life and created a community that not only empowered women but also played a significant role in changing societal perceptions about women and motorcycling.