8 March 2024

Women in racing

Women in motorcycle racing: strength, passion and assertiveness on two wheels

Motorsport has always been dominated by men, but for some time now a remarkable change has been noticeable. More and more women are opting for a career in motorsport or motorcycle engineering, proving that they are just as passionate and talented as their male counterparts. In the past, women were often seen as a marginal phenomenon, but they are now an integral part of both fields. In the motorsport scene, the versatility of women is evident, whether as racing drivers or behind the scenes as mechanics, product developer or design engineer. In doing so, they send a strong signal for equal rights and appreciation of all women in motorsport and with technical interests.

Whether they grew up among motorcyclists or turned their hobby into a career - more and more women are also active in motorcycle technology. They work as mechanics, engineers or designers and make a significant contribution to the development of new technologies. In the alpha Racing workshop, Jenny and Theresa ↗ prove every day as two-wheel mechanics that they have the passion and dedication as well as the complex technical understanding and craftsmanship to build and repair a wide range of motorcycles and test their own, new components. In doing so, the two bring a special precision and care that characterize the sophisticated quality and longevity at alpha Racing.

Even after work, they dedicate themselves to motorcycles. While they both enjoy the freedom and adventure of the road, Jenny seeks out competition on the race track. Faster, further, better - in endurance races, she holds her own against her competitors and regularly achieves victories and personal best times. But despite her enormous commitment, she regularly has to deal with insults and hurt pride from her competitors. She is then told that the light weight of the petite woman on a powerful machine is a guarantee of victory. Unfortunately, they turn a blind eye to the proven technique and muscle power that Jenny has to use to bring the M 1000 RR into a sideways position in every bend. Despite these successes, they are often underestimated or not taken seriously. When she dismounts, she puts her own hands on her bike. Comments such as "You've never ridden that time yourself", "You don't look like you can do this" or "Women don't tear anything up in this profession anyway" are familiar to Theresa and Jenny from both their private and professional lives. They deserve the greatest respect for claiming their place in these areas and not being discouraged by such negative comments.

Despite the growing interest of women in riding and working on motorcycles, everyone needs a "thick skin" and must not let derogatory comments get them down. Many strong women are defying prejudices and clichés now more than ever and showing that gender plays no role in this demanding profession. It is inspiring to see women gaining a foothold in this traditionally male-dominated field and proving their skills. Compliments and appreciative conversations give a lot in return and show that men are also open to development. After all, judgments are not always made at first glance. An exciting exchange among like-minded people and mutual help make for positive memories and fun on the subject of motorcycles. It is encouraging to see how the role of women in motorsport and motorcycle technology is constantly evolving. They prove day after day that they are just as passionate, talented and competent as their male colleagues.

It is important that women in motorcycle motorsport and as motorcycle mechanics are visible and receive recognition for their achievements. Through their presence, they help to break stereotypes and show other women and girls that they too can be successful in these fields. Hopefully, this positive trend towards more diversity and equality in motorsport and motorcycle mechanics will continue and women will be offered the same opportunities as their male colleagues. Ultimately, it is not gender that counts, but talent and passion for the sport and technology.

So far, it has not always been easy for women in motorsport world, but motorcycles are far too fun to be left to men alone.

#internationalwomensday
Author: Theresa Siglreithmaier