4 Ways Motorcycling is Becoming More Diverse
October is Global Diversity Awareness Month, a celebration of different cultures, ideas, beliefs, and inclusivity around the world. These values go hand-in-hand with motorcycling, as biking promotes pride, community, and camaraderie. The lifestyle is only getting bigger and better through diversity and the common bond of passion for motorcycles. As part of the celebration of Global Diversity Awareness Month, Cycle Trader is sharing four ways motorcycling is becoming more diverse.
1. There’s More Diversity Among Motorcycle Riders
The biker identity is changing and while there’s still more that can be done to welcome new bikers, the motorcycle community is starting to make strides to promote different backgrounds, cultures, and lifestyles. For example, 20% of riders now are women, and younger riders such as Millennials (Gen Y) and Zoomers (Gen Z) are turning to bikes for commuting and recreational riding. Riders are joining motorcycle clubs like Buffalo Soldiers, the world’s largest African-American motorcycle club, Redrum, an Indigenous motorcycle club, various LGBTQ motorcycle clubs, and motorcycle clubs for military veterans.
2. Motorcycling is Getting Behind Causes
As a biker, showing up and fighting for important issues shows strength, toughness, and unity. Around the country, motorcyclists are getting out in the street, riding for different reasons while embracing changing values and accepting one another. This includes community rides, rallies, parades, and charity fundraisers to show support for a number of diverse causes. From riding events that tackle issues surrounding social justice and civil liberties, to fighting for a cure for diseases like cancer, bikers are making a lot of noise – in a good way!
3. The Motorcycle Market is Changing
As the biker community becomes more diverse, the motorcycles industry is too. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and dealers are discovering the potential of reaching a new market of buyers by manufacturing and promoting bikes for more riders, extending beyond the normal consumer base. That means creating a greater variety of bikes with more accessible sizes, seat height, easier access to handlebars, and new gear. While there’s much still to be done, women riders in particular have voiced their opinions, and are calling for change from individual motorcycle brands. Further, the advent of electric motorcycles and their availability on the market reflects a shift in beliefs towards the potential of these bikes for everyday use.
4. Riders are Trying Other Bike (Life)Styles
Since the onset of the pandemic, there have been many new riders trying out bikes for the first time, and returning riders purchasing new types of motorcycles that are different from the previous bike(s) they already own. With the purchase of a new bike, riders can get more involved with other riding communities or various riding cultures, and more exposure to a diverse group of motorcyclists. For example, a weekend warrior used to riding a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy has more thrills and power to look forward to with the purchase of an off-road dirt bike or sport bike they can use on a racetrack. This offers you a chance to meet another community of fellow riders, learn new skills, and become a better motorcyclist.
This October, celebrate Global Diversity Awareness Month with your motorcycle. Get involved with a cause you care about with a fellow group of riders, check out new biker communities, and learn more about different biking lifestyles. And if you’re ready to purchase your next new or used motorcycle, see all the nationwide listings online at CycleTrader.com.
Ryan Miller
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