Motorcycles aren't just for men anymore. While women have traditionally sat in the back, Harley-Davidson/Buell is encouraging more to climb onto the driver's seat.
The dealership, on the eastbound side of Interstate 10 near West Ina Road at 7355 N. Frontage Road, hosted a free women's "Garage Party" last Thursday.
About 40 women learned motorcycle basics, such as how to pick up a bike after it has fallen over, how to stay cool in the summer heat and where to go for riding courses.
"One of our biggest goals is to break down the intimidation barriers out there for women," said Michelle Peebler, the dealership's marketing manager. She said women now make up about 23 percent of riders, compared to 3 percent in 1990.
Mike Lektorich, a rider coach from TEAM Arizona Motorcyclist Training Centers, explained the advantages of taking a riding class, even for people who already have motorcycle licenses.
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His beginners' course is useful for people who aren't sure they're ready to ride, because it provides all the necessary equipment. His experienced-rider course helps more seasoned riders refine their skills. Both classes typically help riders get an insurance discount.
"It's very important that you're confident on your motorcycle," he said.
Several members of LOH, Ladies of Harley, said it took them a while to feel confident on a motorcycle.
"I went six months before I rode on the freeway," said Sandy Bean, the group's officer. "I could go anywhere I wanted on a back road."
LOH offers many opportunities for female riders, including group rides, a monthly event called "Play in the Parking Lot" where women can practice safely, as well as a community where they can voice concerns and learn from more experienced riders.
"We're like a family," said member Reggie Krywalski.
The group doesn't discriminate against those who prefer to be passengers. Bean said she rode as a passenger for a long time before she one day decided "I want to to ride beside you, not behind you."
One attendee, Teresa Gaddis, said she went to the event because she was interested in becoming a member of LOH. The group doesn't charge dues, but to join you must be a member of Harley Owners Group, or HOG, which is free the first year when you buy a motorcycle, and $25 per year after that.
"It's a great way to meet people who ride," said Peebler.
After the introduction, women were split into two groups and rotated through four stations.
At the first station Clementine Kohnke, another LOH member, taught women how to lift their bike if it falls over. She stressed the importance of using your leg muscles rather than back muscles to lift bikes, which can weigh between 500 and 1,000 pounds. She had each woman try it once, and the group applauded when each succeeded.
Kohnke then demonstrated how to pack a small bag for weekend trips. She said fitting everything in was hard at first.
"I love shoes, and my husband would only let me take one pair," she said, then added, "tight pants are real cute when you're walking around, but when you're riding - loose pants."
Kohnke also recommended clothing for hot summer months, such as a wet long-sleeve shirt over a tank top.
Frank Barrera, a parts consultant at the dealership, led the third station. He told the women how easy it is for them to customize bikes depending on their preferences. Riders can buy new seats and handlebars to fit different heights, and accessories such as windshields or back rests can be added for comfort.
Barrera said people often make fun of his bike, which is heavily decorated with tassels and beads.
"Always remember you can put whatever you want on your bike," he said. "It's your bike."
The final station was in the apparel department, where employee Amanda Villa briefed the women on proper riding attire. She demonstrated minor details, such as vents in leather jackets and gel padding in gloves that make garb more comfortable for riding.
Peebler said she was pleased with the turnout and the mix of women who showed up. "I want women to leave this event and feel the power."
She plans for the dealership to host another Garage Party in about six months.
Melody Bartholomew is a University of Arizona journalism student apprenticing at the Star. Contact her at 807-7776 or at starapprentice@azstarnet.com
