Wailin’ Wayne Rally: Why Motorcycling Needs the Next Generation

If we want the next generation to be excited about motorcycles, we need to give them something to get excited about. Watching the kids race at Wailin’ Wayne Weekend in Ohio, I couldn’t stop cheering. They were tackling mud, tyres and obstacles, with a crowd behind them willing them on. This is exactly the sort of energy I think motorcycling needs.

I travelled to the rally as a guest speaker and brought Skyla along with her little Strider balance bike. I came away wanting more of the motorcycle world to embrace families, toddlers, children and teenagers. Because the future of biking starts long before someone walks into a showroom to buy their first motorcycle.

Watch my Wailin’ Wayne rally video

Why getting children involved matters

In the video, I talk about my concern that motorcycling needs more younger people coming through. I don’t pretend to have every answer about why some young people aren’t getting into bikes. But I do think we can do more to make them feel included.

If we want someone to love motorcycling in their twenties or thirties, we can help that excitement start much earlier. That might be cheering on a favourite rider, being fascinated by a particular bike, or discovering how much fun two wheels can be. It needs to feel welcoming and enjoyable.

At Wailin’ Wayne, children were part of the action. The crowd was cheering them around the course and celebrating their efforts. Watching a young girl tackle the obstacles, including a properly muddy bog, made the point far better than any speech could.

What made Wailin’ Wayne Weekend stand out

The rally brought together a wonderfully broad mix of riders. I saw Harleys, adventure bikes, dirt bikes, road bikes and even a trials bike. There were routes to download and follow, maps to help people plan their riding, manufacturer demos, evening speakers and entertainment.

During my visit, the event was based at Hocking College in Ohio. Camping was a big part of the weekend, with other accommodation options in the surrounding area. What stayed with me most, though, was the atmosphere: adults enjoying their riding while children had opportunities to get involved too.

The kids’ activities gave families something to share. For a parent who loves motorcycles, that matters. It helps turn an event into something you can enjoy together, rather than having to choose between your own passion and bringing your child along.

Bringing Skyla and her balance bike

Becoming a mum hasn’t made my love of motorcycling disappear. I want Skyla to enjoy her own adventures, and I’m excited about the possibility of sharing more riding with her as she grows.

That’s why her balance bike came to America with us. Her enjoyment and confidence on two wheels matter to me. At this stage, it’s about fun, exploring and being part of what’s happening around her.

If you’re looking at balance bikes for a little one, you can browse through my Strider affiliate link. I may earn a commission if you buy through it, which helps support my content.

Could electric bikes help welcome younger riders?

Electric motorcycles can divide opinion, especially among those of us who love a combustion engine. But in the video I explain why I see an opportunity for younger riders: less noise, less engine heat and a riding experience that can feel less intimidating.

I mention Skyla beginning to explore the throttle on her little RFN electric bike. That’s part of our own experience, rather than a suggested starting age for every child. The bigger point is that there are different ways for children to discover the enjoyment of riding.

More families, more women, more future riders

Seeing young girls out on the course was brilliant. This is about giving more people the chance to find something they love, and making sure they feel they belong in the motorcycle community.

Thank you to Chad and the Wailin’ Wayne team for creating an event that made me feel so positive about that possibility. I filmed this because, standing beside that track, I felt we needed to talk about it.

What could motorcycle events and the wider industry do to welcome more children and families? Watch the video and join the conversation in the YouTube comments. I’d love to hear your ideas.

You can find more of my experiences in the motorcycle events section, or get to know my story as The Girl On A Bike.