Best Motorcycles for Women: 11 Top Models for Newbies & Seasoned Riders

Believe it or not, women riders will take the motorcycle market by storm in the coming days.

How do I know?

Just check out the motorcycle ownership stats that reveal the steadily rising number of female riders across the country.

Honestly, there’s no single answer to the question “which motorcycle is best for ladies?”

The answer depends on individual preferences and skill levels. Technically speaking, there aren’t many motorcycles that are specifically made for women. But depending on the design features and the set height, some motorcycles are more suited for female riders.

To start with, we have picked the best beginner motorcycle models for women. Then we have six more options for more experienced female riders who are ready to broaden their rising horizons.

What is a Good Motorbike for a Woman?

The simple answer: it all depends on your individual style and preferences.

Motorcycle riding isn’t about proving that size doesn’t matter. To make riding fun, you need to be comfortable and able to handle the bike safely. That means, you should have full control over the motorbike and not the other way round.

And one of the first aspects of safety is that your feet should reach the ground while sitting on the motorbike. This helps when you have to stop at a traffic signal or while parking the bike. If you can’t, the seat of the bike is too high for safe riding. 

So consider your inseam length as in the video below for choosing a motorcycle with the right seat height. In addition to that, take into account the type of motorcycle boots that you’re wearing.

It goes without saying that a super heavy motorbike is more difficult to maneuver, especially at low speeds. Picking up a heavy motorcycle in case you drop it, is also a tough challenge.

If you are around 5 feet, riding a behemoth like the Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide ( it weighs around 831 lb.) isn’t the best option. It will probably feel like riding an anti-aircraft missile, or even worse. 

So does this mean that women of short stature can’t ride big bikes?

That depends on the rider’s skills and experience. There are many short(ish) women who are trained to handle heavy cruisers without much effort. However, for first-time riders or occasional fun seekers, it isn’t the ideal choice.

If you’re still mulling over how to choose your starter bike, take a look at our earlier article addressing at length all potential concerns. So let’s dig into specific models!

5 Best Beginner Motorcycle Models for Women

1. The Triumph Speed Twin 900

I may be a dude, but personally, I love the retro styling of the Triumph Street Twin. And Triumph is one brand that always pays attention to detail. So the fit and finish are premia.

At just above 30 inches, the seat height is on the lower side and the fuel tank isn’t too wide either. Weight-wise, it’s around 476 lbs. And that makes it good enough for any “average” female rider. 

The riding position is comfortable enough and the overall ergonomics are well-proportioned. Reaching the handlebars and managing the motorcycle won’t be an issue for smaller riders.

The liquid-cooled 900 cc engine delivers a modest 64.1 bhp but the performance is surprisingly sporty. The engine responds sharply to the twist of the throttle and the handling capability is good too.

If you are looking for fast acceleration, this isn’t the right motorcycle. But it’s agile enough to make riding through twisty roads fun. Also, there’s enough tech to provide a rider-friendly feel without overwhelming newbie riders with information.

The Speed Twin 90 isn’t a typical ‘ladies’ motorcycle by any means. But Triumph has managed to make it a solid option for female riders as an entry-level all-rounder.

2. Honda Rebel 500 ABS

The Honda Rebels have been around for decades and still remain among some of the best beginner’s motorcycles for newbie riders, female or male. And the Rebel 500 with its all-black version has a badass look with an appeal you can’t ignore.

The 471 cc liquid-cooled engine is a smooth performer that inexperienced riders will love. It won’t growl aggressively when you press the throttle, but there’s enough low-speed acceleration to move fast through traffic. Moreover, the light gearbox is easy to use.

The ultra-low seat height of 27.2 inches means the center of gravity is low. And that makes this one of the best motorcycles for short riders. Besides, the low height makes it easy to control the 408 pounds curb weight. The neutral riding posture, backswept handlebars, and comfy saddle make the ride more comfortable. 

That said, it’s a bit too small for riders around six feet. Also, the suspension is on the softer side.

To sum up, the Rebel 500 is a forgiving bike with excellent rider ergonomics. And the cheap price tag makes it a great learner bike that can take all sorts of punishment. While it’s a great option for newbies, intermediate riders too will love jumping on this motorbike for some fun. 

3. BMW G 310 R

If you are looking for a reliable city bike that’s affordable and easy to ride, the G 310 R ticks all the right boxes. And since it is based on the BMW S 1000 R, the bare design is balanced with a sporty look.

The seat height of 30.9 inches ensures that even if you are on the shorter side, you will get your toes on the ground. However, since it only weighs 362 lb, it’s easy to control even if you have a single foot planted. The riding position is comfortable and the controls are easy to reach too.

Initially, you may not feel inspired by the 20.6 lbs-ft of torque output from the 313 cc single-cylinder engine. But the fast delivery will surprise you, thanks to the high power-to-weight ratio. 

But don’t expect a refined performance from the engine. After all, this is an entry-level motorbike. There are vibrations at higher revs that might be bothersome during long rides.

Besides, the good maneuverability and easy handling make it a great choice for occasional off-road trips as well. The comfort and handling dynamics are good and you get ABS as standard.

Granted, it’s not one of those exciting tech-loaded motorcycles that you’d normally associate with the BMW badge. But the G 310 R is a zippy and affordable machine and a confidence-inspiring choice for newbies.

4. Kawasaki Ninja 400

Kawasaki has designed the Ninja 400 for newbie riders gaining confidence and looking for more speed and supersport looks. The motorbike comes in three color options with some eye-catching graphics. While it’s a user-friendly motorbike, true to the Ninja DNA, it has an aggressive edge too.

The output of the 4-stroke parallel-twin engine is 44 HP and the ABS version of the Ninja 400 measures a svelte 366 pounds.

The result?

A whacking torque to weight ratio that allows it to out-accelerate competitors like the Yamaha R3. Besides, the power delivery is smooth and there’s plenty of bottom-end torque available. And once you move to the top end of the rev-band, it offers just the right amount of action.

A seat height of 30.9 inches is approachable and the riding position is comfortable too. It might not be as comfy as sinking into your favorite armchair, but it’s close enough! On top of that, the handling is excellent and the twin-cylinder’s crescendo can get addictive over time.

You know what? 

There’s only one type of Ninja in the world. The one that’s right behind you.

And that goes for the Ninja 400 too. If you like a healthy bit of grumble from the exhaust, the Ninja 400 will disappoint you. On the plus side, the people next door might be happy with the lack of engine sounds.

5. Harley Davidson Iron 883

Many consider the Iron 883 as one of the best Harley-Davidson for women. And not without a reason or two.

In terms of looks, the Iron 883 is the Dark Knight of the Harley stable with hardly any shiny chrome elements. That said, it’s an attractive motorcycle with a minimalist style.

That doesn’t make it a light motorcycle though. At around 545 lb, it can be a pain in the neck for a five-footer during low-speed maneuvers. 

However, the sub-30-inch seat height allows you to plant your feet and the bucket-style seat design along with a narrow frame helps in straddling the bike effectively. The comfortable riding position also makes gripping the handlebars an easy task.

The 883 cc engine delivers 51 HP with the unmistakable Harley sound. Besides, unlike your average Harley potato-potatoing down the road, this one boasts an excellent fuel economy as well. While the power output doesn’t seem much, the 883 has plenty of acceleration to not just make you happy but occasionally thrill you as well. The ride quality is decent and the straight-line stability is terrific.

The 883 isn’t a touring motorcycle. But it’s ideal for waddling through city traffic and heading out for some weekend fun. If you are thinking of dumping the naked bike and making your first move toward the HD culture, the Iron 883 is a good option.

6 Motorcycles for Experienced Women Riders

1. Harley Davidson Softail Low Rider S

For veteran lady riders looking for a road trip-friendly motorbike, this hog is a solid option. Obviously, it’s a stunning-looking motorbike that will command attention on the street, especially the all-black version.

At 27 inches, the Low Rider S has one of the lowest seat heights in the Harley Davidson lineup. However, the arms-wide riding position may get uncomfortable after a few hours if you’re not supermodel tall.

Also, you will feel the weight of 679 pounds while pushing the bike in the garage. But on the road, the bike handles the weight well and feels deceptively light.

The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine churns out a solid 125 ft-lb of torque. While that delivers plenty of power, this machine isn’t fast enough to compete with a nimble sportbike. 

However, the engine delivers a super smooth performance that feels like a tamed beast. A simple flick of the wrist will deliver plenty of acceleration when you need to move fast. Besides, the stability is top-notch and the bike remains rock-solid in strong crosswinds. 

And once you get used to the rising dynamics, you can throw the bike aggressively in corners with confidence.

Honestly, the Softail Low Rider S isn’t the motorcycle that will appeal to all riders. But this is a bike that has a distinct character and enough practicality for those looking for something special.

2. Suzuki SV650

Admittedly, the SV650 special is a rare mechanical creature. It’s an easy-to-ride option for learners but is fun enough for riders past the learning stage. In the 2022 edition, Suzuki has preserved the classic street design which might make the bike look a bit dated for some riders. But strictly speaking, that’s not a con, but a matter of personal preference.

The power delivery from the 645 cc 4-stroke engine is super smooth. And veterans swear that this V-twin can withstand anything you can throw at it, even nuclear holocausts. It’s got enough grit and paired with the low curb heft, you get plenty of torque in the low and mid rev ranges.

But what about ergonomics?

Pretty impressive, let me tell you! At 432 pounds, it’s not too heavy and the modest seat height of 30.9 inches will allow you to get your toes on the ground. 

The upright riding position is comfortable and the clutch and brake levers are easy to squeeze: perfect for those with a weaker wrist. For regular riders, a windscreen accessory could be a practical addition.

Even with the modest price tag, the SV65 has enough modern conveniences to assist riders. These include ABS and the one-touch Easy Start System from Suzuki. To prevent newbie riders from stalling, there’s also Low RPM Assist.

If you want an easy-going motorbike that’s not difficult to maintain, the Suzy SV650 is easy to fall for.

3. Indian Scout Sixty

The Scout Sixty is a smaller version of the Indian Scout and offers excellent value to experienced female riders looking for a reliable cruiser. And as expected from Indian, it’s a beautifully crafted machine with a solid road presence. 

In theory, this is an entry-level motorcycle aimed at new riders. But be warned: there’s plenty of torque available and the V-twin delivers a peak output of 78 Hp. And once the RPMs rise, this bike can rip through trails like the Pacific Coast Highway or the Monument Valley. 

But unlike the original Scout, the power will not blow your helmet off. The nimble handling will give you enough confidence to enjoy the impressive acceleration.

Let not the weight of 543 pounds discourage you. The set height of 25.6 inches makes the Scout Sixty easy to steer at low speeds. The riding position is comfortable, thanks to the bucket seat and the wide handlebar.

Any cons?

Well, the ride quality isn’t exactly plush and you will feel some of the bumps. But, considering the overall performance, this is a shortcoming that can be easily overlooked.

4. Ducati Scrambler Icon

For those who dream of becoming a Ducatiste, this member of Ducati’s Scrambler family is a great choice. No, the Scrambler Iron doesn’t come in the exotic red shade that you might associate with a Ducati. But you can customize the base in three different colors. And honestly, the black visage with a matte-black finish looks super cool.

The 803 cc engine delivers 73 hp and combined with the six-speed gearbox, the torque is evenly spread across the power band. 

Honestly, this isn’t a bike that will leave you gasping for breath with its acceleration. Intermediate riders will love the user-friendly performance while there’s enough punch to keep the veterans engaged.

The thing is, the air cooled-engine won’t transfer heat while the bike isn’t moving. So, you may feel uncomfortable if the Scrambler is idling for too long. In such scenarios, hit the kill switch and let the engine cool off. 

The comfy seat and wide handlebars make the riding posture relaxed and the Icon is ideal for long hours of commuting. The seat height is 31.3 inches but you can lower it to 30.7 inches by using the below seat accessory.

At around 408 lbs. the lightweight chassis and relaxed geometry make it fun to drive on the twisties. The steering geometry is sharp, making the Icon a breeze to maneuver.

Overall, with the Scrambler Icon, Ducati has found the right balance between fun and intimidating.

5. Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster

Based on the Bonneville Bobber platform, this Speedmaster is a great choice for touring or commuting. At first glance, this is a beautifully crafted motorcycle with classy old-school features combined with modern features.

What about ergonomics?

The narrow design of the tank and the low seat height of 27.75 inches makes it easy to control. The “beach bar” handlebar makes it easy to steer the bike and keeps the controls well within reach for those without XL-sized hands. Also, the deep-scoop saddle has a thick layer of foam for extra cushioning so your rear end won’t get sore after a riding spree.

The 1200 cc parallel-twin engine is torquey and delivers 76.9 bhp. In short, there’s plenty of grunt that transforms into a soothing rumble from the exhaust. The snappy throttle response feels great and a torque-assist clutch makes life easier at low speeds.

6. BMW S 1000 RR

If your skill levels allow you to step into the world of big horsepower, the BMW S 1000 RR will deliver the rush you are looking for. And the best part is, BMW has managed to blend performance with top-notch road-friendliness.

Here are the numbers: the 999 cc 4-cylinder engine delivers 205 hp and 83 lb-ft of torque. Surprisingly, even with so much power, the bike feels super easy to ride. And once you push the engine above the 8000 RPM mark, it comes alive to make you mutter “holy sh*t” under your breath.

The chassis stability and maneuverability are simply mind-blowing. The electronics package has a plethora of features including five different riding modes, Brake Slide Assist, and DTC Slide Control assistance systems

The superbike has a flat riding position and once you are on the seat, it feels lighter than the actual curb weight of 434.3 pounds. The narrow frame makes it easier to grasp the fuel tank and the seat height is 32.4 inches. 

Note, the cushioning on the seat is on the lower side. So, it’s not the most comfortable option for long rides.

And make no mistake about it. This is a bike that is a race animal at its heart and offers much more than what an average street rider needs. Pushing this bike without the right skills can be a recipe for disaster. 

But for experienced riders who know how to stay in control, it’s a ton of fun on two wheels.

With a weight of 580 pounds, it’s not a light motorbike. But once you get going, it doesn’t feel too heavy. And the Speedmaster has a reassuring stability allowing you to handle the twisties with confidence. 

That said, the rear suspensions don’t offer the best cushioning over bumps. So this isn’t the best motorcycle for riding a pillion.

With its good looks and stellar performance, it’s no wonder that this comfortable cruiser has got a thumbs-up from so many female riders.

Bottom Line

So these are some of the best women’s motorcycles for riders of all abilities. 

My advice is, don’t get carried away by what someone else is riding. Choose a motorbike that offers the best comfort for your body and makes the ride enjoyable as per your preferences.

And let’s not forget, the art of motorcycling is extremely unforgiving of ignorance, incompetence, or carelessness.

So, no matter the bike you choose, make sure to choose the right helmet and other safety gear at all times.