International Female Ride Day 2026

International Female Ride Day 2026: History, Meaning, and How to Participate 

On Saturday, May 2nd, women riders worldwide will take to the streets for local rides, events, and gatherings celebrating the 20th annual International Female Ride Day. At Journey MotoGear, we’re proud to support and uplift the women motorcyclists who play a vital role in shaping the motorcycle community and industry. 

But International Female Ride Day is more than just a group ride. It is a global movement that highlights the growing presence of women in motorcycling. Here’s a closer look at the history of IFRD, why it matters, and how you can take part in 2026. 

What is International Female Ride Day? 

Held on the first Saturday in May each year, International Female Ride Day is a globally synchronized initiative that brings together women riders of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. The day highlights and empowers women in motorcycling, motorsports, and powersports, while encouraging more women to begin their own two-wheeled journeys. 

IFRD runs on the mantra “Just Ride!”, a simple but powerful message that unites women in motorcycling across borders and cultures through a shared passion for the ride. Whether riding solo, with friends, or at an organized gathering, every participant becomes a visible role model, representing the rising presence and impact of women in the riding community. 

The History of International Female Ride Day 

The first International Female Ride Day took place on May 4th, 2007. Created by Vicki Gray, the movement was designed to recognize the increasing number of women motorcycle riders and to set aside a day for women everywhere to get on their bikes and “Just Ride!” What began as a nationally promoted campaign in Gray’s home country of Canada quickly proved to be a success. 

By the following year, the movement had gained international momentum, with women organizing rides and events across the United States, England, Australia, Greece, the Netherlands, and even Russia. 

Who Created International Female Ride Day? Meet Vicki Gray 

Vicki Gray is a pioneer in the motorcycle world. A lifelong rider, instructor, and advocate, she has spent more than four decades empowering women motorcyclists and creating a world where every female rider is visible, celebrated, and connected through their shared passion for two wheels. 

In 1998, Gray founded RaceGirl Motorsport, a nonprofit training and support community designed to help women in motorsports expand their skills and confidence. Through courses, workshops, and online resources, the platform offered education, inspiration, and a space for female riders to connect. 

Following its success, RaceGirl Motorsport evolved into MOTORESS in 2005. Today, MOTORESS is the longest-running global community for women motorcycle riders, providing education, resources, and connection while continuing to inspire and support female riders worldwide. 

Shortly after MOTORESS was established, Gray launched the first-ever International Female Ride Day, which has become a worldwide movement celebrated by women motorcyclists in more than 120 countries. 

How International Female Ride Day Became a Worldwide Event 

International Female Ride Day began as a grassroots initiative in Toronto, Canada, and quickly grew into an international movement spanning more than 120 countries. Originally held on the first Friday in May, the day was later moved to Saturday to make it easier for riders with weekday commitments to participate. 

As participation expanded, industry support followed. Recognizable motorcycle brands and local dealerships have increasingly joined the celebration. In 2019, Polaris Inc. and its subsidiaries — particularly Indian Motorcycle — began supporting the movement with annual events hosted at dealerships. In 2021, BRP became an official IFRD partner, working alongside Can-Am’s Women of On-Road program to further champion women riders.