There is no such thing as a women-only motorcycle. Motorcycles don’t care much about your gender and your looks. Yet, some models are believed to be more convenient for women, especially if this is their first vehicle in this category. Below, we will explore some general tips on how to choose a beginner motorcycle for women and some of the best models to look at.
Women's Evolving Role in Motorcycling
For quite some time, motorcycling was a male-dominated industry. And as in every such case, women had to claim their place on the road and break through the hurdles of gender biases.
It all started in the early 20th century when, in 1915, mother and daughter Avis and Effie Hotchkiss became the first women motorcycle riders to ride cross-country through the US. Then there were many other brave women who followed in their footsteps: from Bessie Stringfield and the Van Buren sisters to Linda Dugeau and Dot Robinson. Dugeau and Robinson went on to found the Motor Maids, North America’s first women’s motorcycle club, which fostered a strong and lasting community for female riders.
With the arrival of the 21st century, women on motorcycles are no longer a rarity. A female rider no longer turns heads in surprise. Bikes have become part of everyday life for many women in cities around the world. Recognizing this growing audience, manufacturers have begun to adapt their models and marketing to meet the demand.
Guide to Choosing the Right First Motorcycle for Women
For beginners, the phrase you’ll hear most often is, “Start small,” and it’s usually right on point. But it's not only the size of the vehicles that matters. Let’s go over some major features to consider.
Weight and Size: Finding the Right Fit
The best first motorcycle for women should be light and preferably small. If you choose, let’s say a 300-kg cruiser as your first bike, you will most likely drop it on the very first ride. And that hurts – a lot. So, we don’t recommend it. Ideally, a beginner bike should be no heavier than 180 kg and no bigger than about 210 cm in length, 85 cm in width, and 110 cm in height – average dimensions of a middle-sized bike.
Seat Height: Better Stability and More Comfort
Seat height is another important factor of comfort. The bike should feel approachable in every way. A rider should be able to put at least one foot flat on the ground to feel stable and in control. For most women riders with an average height between 160–165 cm, a seat height between 700 and 780 mm is considered comfortable. Some adventure and Enduro bikes are slightly taller (85+ cm) and, therefore, may feel intimidating.
Engine Performance: Matching Power to Experience
Just as with size and weight, the same advice goes here as well. The less, the better. Your first motorcycle shouldn’t be intimidating. Don’t rush to jump on something above 500cc. We believe the best first motorcycle for women should be a small-displacement model, that is, between 200cc and 400cc. Give yourself some time to learn and adjust. Your next season may well be on something more powerful and capable, but your first riding season should be, above all, safe.
Design and Functionality: Balancing Style and Practicality
Style is cool, but definitely not the first thing to chase when it comes to your first bike. Reliability and functionality – that’s what a good motorbike for women should be about. Focus on practical factors like fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance, and the availability of spare parts. First, you need to get comfortable in the saddle and build your skills; style can come later.
Safety Features Every Woman Rider Should Consider
We can’t overstate how crucial it is to be extra cautious and safety-conscious, especially at the beginning of your motorcycle journey. And here, let the modern tech features work for you. Whatever you choose, get it with the ABS. Think of antilock brakes not as training wheels, but as your backup plan. Rain, gravel, even a squirrel darting across the road — ABS gives you a better chance of staying upright. Bikes with it are involved in fewer fatal crashes, and honestly, we wouldn’t make a habit of riding without it. Of course, all the essential safety gear like helmets, boots, gloves, leg protection, etc. goes without saying. It is a must-have for all riders regardless of their experience.
Top Motorcycle Models Recommended for Women
With so many choices available, there are plenty of good motorcycles for women in the UAE. In this vast sea of models and brands, we have hand-picked some of the best options that are both beginner-friendly and well-suited for women riders.
Modern Classic and Vintage Vibes
For ladies who value the timeless retro style, Sharmax Motors has an entire lineup of road bikes under the RR series. Thus, the RR 301 Ultra ticks all the boxes we mentioned above. It’s light and maneuverable (164 kg) with a seat height of just 700 mm. It has dual ABS for extra stopping power, and it is pretty capable at 250cc while still staying approachable and easy to handle. The wide plush seat and relaxed, upright riding position add extra comfort. Style-wise, it leaves nothing to be desired — sleek, bold, and unmistakably premium, and all these at a very affordable price. And this is how the RR 301 Ultra takes its rightful place among the top motorcycles for women.
Naked and Street Bikes for More Aggressive Looks
Beginner-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring. Naked and street bikes bring agility, bold looks, and just the right dose of excitement. The Sharmax RST 150 Ultra is another contender for the best beginner motorcycles for women. Again, it’s light and manageable, the seat is 780 mm and the weight is just 117 kg. The top speed is capped at 110 km/h which is exactly what is needed for a beginner. The build is pretty simple, making the bike easy to maintain and perfect for learning the basics.
Adventure and Touring Ready Bikes
Modern women go everywhere they want and need, and this may be beyond the paved road. If this is your case, you'd better look for bikes with some off-road capabilities like the Sharmax Enduro 300. A little bit taller than we mentioned (850 mm) but not terrifying, with great balance, tech, and travel comfort baked in. It is still quite light, though –145 kg – which makes it easy to handle and maneuver. An ADV-styled motorcycle for women in the UAE that’s smooth and easygoing on and off the road.
Where to Buy Motorcycles for Women in the UAE
The myriad of dealerships in the UAE doesn’t make the choice any easier. But Sharmax showrooms, conveniently located in three major emirates such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, are always ready to welcome you with friendly advice and professional expertise whenever you need it.
Apart from the best motorbike models for women, Sharmax also offers 3 years of warranty with them and ongoing support on all levels. You won’t be left on your own with any maintenance or handling issues that may arise. Our supporting staff and community will always be at your service. Availability of original spare parts means that repairs are hassle-free and you won’t waste time searching for replacements.
Tips for Choosing Your Motorcycle
To round it up, let’s summarize the tips for choosing your first girl's motorcycle.
Start small. This goes for everything in a motorcycle: the weight, overall size, seat height and power. Take it easy and don’t push yourself onto big, punchy machines too soon. Excitement will come later when you gain enough confidence and practice.
Don’t stick to a particular style or design. Your first bike could be anything: a sports bike, a roadster, a naked bike, or an enduro. Just make sure you feel comfortable and in control of it.
When choosing your “iron horse,” test it. Sit on it. Try the bars, the pegs, test the lean. Every reputable dealer allows a test drive, so make use of it too.
Safety is everything. Choose models with ABS, even if they cost a little more — it’s worth it. And never cut corners on good riding gear.
Frequently asked questions
Why do women like motorcycles?
Well, for the same reasons men do: freedom and mobility, a relatively affordable entry point, and, of course, the lifestyle it brings with it. Finally, the undeniable thrill of speed and adrenaline.
Are there motorcycles specifically designed for women?
No, there is no such thing as women-only motorcycles. They are all for everyone but it’s true that some models are considered to be a better fit for women, especially beginners.
What is the best beginner motorcycle for women?
Any model that is light and easy to maneuver and handle. Basically, anything a woman feels comfortable with.
What common mistakes should women avoid when purchasing their first motorcycle?
Chasing some particular styles, looks or the idea of being cool at the expense of safety. Going for a too powerful bike. Buying a bike for later and thinking, “I’ll grow into it.”
At the end of the day, the best motorcycle for women isn’t about pink paint or labels — it’s about freedom, confidence, and choosing a ride that fits you.