Last Update: 6 March 2025
The 2024 International Female Ride Day® (IFRD) once again proved why it’s a staple in the global motorcycling and powersports calendar. On Saturday 4 May women riders from 120 countries came together to celebrate the power, independence, and unity of motorcycling, motorsports, and powersports. With the mantra “Just Ride”, IFRD inspired thousands to hit the road and make their presence known—on two (or three) wheels.
International Female Ride Day A Global Movement
This year’s event brought an incredible sense of unity as riders from diverse cultures and riding styles joined forces. Whether navigating the busy streets of metropolitan cities or exploring scenic countryside routes, women showcased their passion for riding. Group rides, solo journeys, and community events created unforgettable moments across continents.
Highlights Included:
- Europe:Scenic rides through Italy’s Amalfi Coast and community meetups in the Netherlands celebrated camaraderie and adventure. Across the UK, women rode in all parts of the country, from the bustling streets of London to the scenic routes of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, showcasing the strength and spirit of the female riding community.
- North America: Women gathered for rallies in cities like Toronto, Los Angeles, and Austin. The diversity of motorcycles—from cruisers to sportbikes—was a true spectacle. The Litas hosted an IFRD Hotel Takeover in Vegas.
- Founder Vicki Gray joined women in Winnipeg Manitoba to celebrate in true Canadian style. Hosted by MotoQueens Canada, Litas Winnipeg, MachineGirl Motorsports, with support from Headingly Indian and Harley-Canada, fun was had by all.
- Mexico saw major participation, particularly in Mexico City, where women riders took to the streets in large numbers, celebrating unity and the thrill of motorcycling.
- Asia and Oceania: Vibrant celebrations took place in countries like India, Japan, Mongolia, and Australia, with riders making statements of empowerment.
- Africa: From South Africa to Kenya, women embraced the day with pride and inspired the next generation of female riders.
- South America: Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia saw joyous parades of motorcycles sweeping through cities, highlighting the passion for motorcycling in the region.
Social Media Exploded
IFRD’s impact was amplified on social media, where hashtags like #IFRD2024, #IFRD,#JustRide, and #internationalfemalerideday trended throughout the day. Photos and videos flooded platforms, capturing everything from pre-ride meetups to sunset group shots. Riders shared their stories, underscoring the day’s empowering message. The increased visibility of female riders on social media also highlights their significant economic impact on the motorcycle industry as consumers of bikes, gear, and services. Key influencers and brand ambassadors played a crucial role in spreading awareness about IFRD and encouraging participation, further amplifying the event’s reach.
Supporting Causes
This year, many IFRD participants rode to support charitable causes, from raising funds for women’s shelters to promoting road safety initiatives. The ride was not just about celebrating motorcycling but also about giving back to communities.
Inspiring Stories
The stories of resilience and triumph were abundant. Riders shared personal journeys of overcoming challenges, finding freedom in motorcycling, and inspiring others to join the community. IFRD continues to be a platform for women to express themselves, break stereotypes, and forge lifelong connections.
Embracing the Theme: IFRD EVERY WOMAN
The 2024 theme, #IFRDEveryWoman , was truly embraced by riders worldwide. This year’s focus emphasised inclusivity and celebrated women from all walks of life, showcasing that motorcycling is a space for everyone. Riders used the theme to highlight the diversity, strength, and unity that IFRD represents, making it one of the most impactful years yet. Learn more about the theme here.
Partner Spotlight: Polaris
Polaris and all its brands went above and beyond for IFRD 2024, hosting activations at every dealership across North America and around the world. These events brought women riders together for engaging activities, exclusive promotions, and community-building experiences. The scale and reach of Polaris’ involvement were truly remarkable, showcasing their unwavering commitment to supporting women in motorcycling. It was a huge highlight of this year’s IFRD and a testament to the power of collaboration in making the day unforgettable.
Partner Spotlight: Indian Motorcycle
Indian Motorcycles made an unforgettable mark on IFRD 2024, delivering unique experiences that celebrated and empowered women riders globally. Through vibrant dealership events, engaging group rides, and exclusive opportunities, Indian Motorcycles fostered connection and camaraderie amongst women riders. Their innovative approach and steadfast support not only elevated the IFRD celebration but also underscored their commitment to championing diversity and inclusion in motorcycling.
Partner Spotlight: BRP Can-Am
Can-Am BRP demonstrated strong support again for IFRD 2024, engaging with riders through a variety of initiatives. Dealerships hosted special promotions and events, offering exclusive deals and opportunities for women riders to experience the thrill of Can-Am vehicles. The Can-Am On-Road group organised exciting rides in various locations around the globe, fostering a sense of community and adventure amongst female riders. These efforts showcased Can-Am BRP commitment to empowering women in motorcycling and creating memorable experiences for all riders.
Photo Sweepstakes Success
The annual IFRD photo sweepstake was once again a resounding success, with enthusiastic participation from riders worldwide. The winning entries showcased the spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of riding. The winners were thrilled with their prizes, further enhancing the excitement and celebration surrounding IFRD 2024. However, even the official photo sweepstake gallery cannot fully capture the incredible volume and diversity of photos shared globally across individual social platforms. It was truly phenomenal to witness how women geared up and joined in the celebration, creating a visual tapestry of empowerment and unity.
A Downer: Unnecessary Interference by Ducati
Regrettably, for 2024, Ducati has once again launched its promotional campaign, “We Ride As One,” with an identical call to action — most notably selecting the very same date that International Female Ride Day (IFRD) has proudly held for 18 years. This decision is particularly troubling given that the manufacturer had been previously confronted about this issue. While Ducati claimed thousands of participants in their event, the reality is that these riders were already mobilised by IFRD. This move has left women riders worldwide disheartened and frustrated, as it is widely seen as an attempt to capitalise on IFRD’s long-standing success.
The day has always focused on expanding women rider segments globally, a mission that has been widely supported across the industry. It is particularly troubling that Ducati, a well-resourced entity, remains the only manufacturer to diverge from this united effort. Research shows that women are often encouraged to default to passive responses, which perpetuates systemic barriers to achieving equality and equity. Actions like these only serve to reinforce those challenges, preventing progress for women in motorcycling and beyond. Such behaviour underscores the critical need to protect and respect initiatives that empower communities, ensuring they remain focused on their goals rather than diverted by those seeking to overshadow or exploit their success.
Your continued support for IFRD is essential to preserving its mission of empowerment and progress, ensuring it remains a platform that uplifts women riders and strengthens the motorcycling community worldwide.
Call To Action For Men
Male riders played a vital role in creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for women in motorcycling. By supporting and celebrating IFRD, breaking down gender barriers within the community, and actively promoting inclusivity, men can contribute significantly to the continued growth and success of women’s motorcycling initiatives. This includes acknowledging the invaluable contributions of women passengers and embracing the reality of women’s equity and equality within the motorcycling and motorsport community, where women lead and participate as primary riders.
What’s Next?
As we look ahead to 2025, the momentum of IFRD shows no signs of slowing. Plans are already underway for next year’s event, promising to be even bigger and more impactful.
Join the Movement
IFRD is for everyone and stands as a unique and powerful force within the motorcycling and powersports world. Join in on Saturday 3 May for the 19th annual International Female Ride Day and experience the thrill of riding alongside women from around the globe.
Thank you to all who participated, organised, and supported IFRD 2024. Together, we’ve made history again and strengthened the bond of the worldwide female motorcycling community.
Just ride!
