8 Women Who Have Shaped the History of Motorcycling

Last March 8 marked International Women’s Day. To commemorate this important date, from NG BRAKES we want to dedicate a space to all the women who are part of this industry. In this case, with a special mention for those who made history by breaking down the barriers that society imposed on them simply because of their gender. Today, we bring you 8 women who have shaped the history of motorcycling.

1. Della Crewe

Della Crewe is considered the first woman to cross the United States on a motorcycle, a feat she achieved in 1915. At a time when it was far from common to see a woman riding a motorcycle, her achievement attracted significant media attention despite the social norms of the era.

2. Augusta and Adeline Van Buren

One year after Crewe’s incredible achievement, sisters Augusta and Adeline Van Buren traveled for two months from New York to Los Angeles. They did so riding two Indian Powerplus motorcycles. The nearly 9,000 km journey was not without obstacles, as they were even arrested simply for wearing trousers.

3. Nancy and Betty Debenham

The sisters Nancy and Betty Debenham made history not only for their passion for motorcycles or for competing on them, but also for having their own column in the publication Cars and Motor-Cycles in 1927. They used this platform to advocate for women’s presence in the industry and to fight for acceptance.

4. Bessie Stringfield

One of the women who faced the greatest challenges was Bessie Stringfield, who was not only a woman but also the first African American woman to ride a motorcycle. She did so in 1927, at just 16 years old. Nearly 30 years later, in 1953, she won a race disguised as a man, but the prize was taken away once her gender was discovered.

5. Dorothy Robinson

Dorothy Robinson is known for fighting for women’s right to compete in motorcycle racing during the 1930s and 1940s. She also founded the Motor Maids motorcycle club in 1940, the first women-only motorcycle club in the world. At just 18 years old, she won a 100-mile endurance race. Her remarkable career earned her a place in the American Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame.

6. Theresa Wallach and Florence Blenkiron

Almost 45 years before the Dakar Rally was founded, in 1935, Theresa Wallach and Florence Blenkiron—two friends sharing the same passion—embarked on the adventure of crossing Africa by motorcycle, despite opposition from their families. They became the first women to do so. Although they sought sponsorship, they ended up making the journey on two Phelon & Moore Panther motorcycles, a lesser-known brand. No major manufacturer trusted that women could complete such a challenge. It wasn’t until millionaire Lady Astor and speed racer Sir Malcolm Campbell agreed to support them financially that they were able to set off.

7. Sally Halterman

Sally Helterman made history as the first woman to obtain a motorcycle driving licence, which she finally received in 1937. She spent 10 years trying to get it, having ridden motorcycles without a licence for years and sitting the exam countless times. She was often failed due to her height, weight, or simply because the examiner refused to test her.

8. Laia Sanz

Looking for a more contemporary role model, we find one of the most successful Spanish women in motorcycling: Laia Sanz. She is a fourteen-time Trial World Champion and a six-time Enduro World Champion. Without a doubt, she is a true inspiration for women who are passionate about motorcycling today, especially in off-road disciplines.