Police, Industry and Riders Unite for International Women’s Day Motorcycling Event

Women riders from across the regions gathered at BMW Motorrad Chester to celebrate International Women’s Day with a special event focused on community, rider development and road safety.

Hosted in partnership with Cheshire Police, the event welcomed female riders of all experience levels and provided an opportunity to connect with fellow motorcyclists while learning more about improving riding skills.

The event was organised by Jen Whelan of Cheshire Police’s Motorcycle Unit. PC Whelan is currently the Constabulary’s only female police motorcyclist and previously became the first woman within the force and only the fifth woman nationally to pass the National VIPEX course, which qualifies officers to escort high-profile individuals including royalty and international dignitaries.

According to the event announcement, this year’s International Women’s Day theme of “Give to Gain” helped inspire the initiative, bringing together women riders while also highlighting the role of motorcycling within policing and the wider community.

The day was delivered with the support of several partners including Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, National Highways, BikeSafe and BMW Motorrad.

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for female riders to take part in BikeSafe taster sessions delivered by police motorcyclists. These guided rides offered participants a brief introduction to the BikeSafe programme, combining a short observed ride with constructive feedback on roadcraft, hazard awareness and riding techniques.

Max of Women on Wheels commented: “It was fantastic to see so many women riders attend for International Women’s Day and take part in the BikeSafe taster sessions, working with Cheshire Police to support their rider development. Such a brilliant day in bringing the female biker community together”

Louise Lunt, who attended as a female representative of Merseyside and Cheshire Blood Bikes, said: “There was a really good vibe of community and I was really pleased to see such a mix of ages and abilities all coming together and celebrating women in motorcycling. The female biking community is growing and it’s really exciting to see and be a part of.”

The BikeSafe initiative, delivered by police forces across the UK, is designed to help motorcyclists further develop their riding skills through guidance from advanced police riders.

For many riders, BikeSafe can also act as a stepping stone into further rider development. Those looking to progress may choose to undertake advanced training programmes such as the BMF Blue Riband Advanced Motorcycle Course which focuses on refining roadcraft, machine control and rider awareness through structured coaching and assessment.

The British Motorcyclists Federation welcomes initiatives such as this that encourage rider development, road safety awareness and greater participation across the motorcycling community.

As the number of women taking up motorcycling continues to grow, events like this highlight the importance of supporting riders at every stage of their journey while encouraging continued learning and skills development on the road.

Written by MJ

All images courtesy of Louise Lunt and MJ