Annie Brokaw

Annie Brokaw: The Trailblazing Motorcyclist Who Defied Limits

A Passion Ignited

Annie Brokaw's journey into the world of motorcycling began in 1947, rooted in the family business—her father’s motorcycle shop in Florida. Surrounded by the rumble of engines and the thrill of two wheels, Annie developed a passion for motorcycles that would span decades and encompass nearly every facet of the sport. From East Coast road tours to participating in an enduro, trials, and even a few drag races, Annie's early experiences set the stage for a lifelong love affair with motorcycling.

In her quest for knowledge, Annie earned a Triumph Mechanic Certificate, rounding out her impressive skills and solidifying her dedication to the craft.

Building a Family Legacy

At just 19 years old, Annie married Bill Brokaw, who shared her passion for motorcycling, having also grown up in a motorcycle shop. The couple soon embarked on a family business journey in California, where they would operate for 35 years. In the mid-1960s, they relocated to Colorado Springs, yet Annie's commitment to motorcycling never waned.

When she wasn't busy managing the family business, Annie was busy competing. She thrived in Colorado, where she blossomed as a motorcyclist, often taking her daughters, Kerrie and Kelly, along for trial rides. Annie loved road riding, but her competitive spirit pushed her to new heights.

Champion of Competitions

As Annie's skills developed, she advanced to semi-expert in trials and turned her attention to ice racing during the winter months, famously winning a national women’s championship on bare tires. However, it was on screw tires with her Champion-framed flat tracker that her true talent emerged. Annie triumphed in state championship dirt track races, earning an expert ranking.

Despite being in her 40s, Annie fearlessly competed against riders half her age, challenging the status quo and proving her mettle. Her journey into road racing with a 500cc Yamaha saw her consistently placing among the top competitors in a male-dominated sport. Unfortunately, her racing career came to an abrupt halt following a crash.

Embracing New Adventures

In her mid-forties, rather than giving up her passion, Annie shifted her focus to ice racing, trials, and road tours on her Ducati, while also enjoying trail riding. She discovered a newfound love for Dual-Sport riding, which took her on breathtaking adventures to the Arctic Circle and Copper Canyon in Mexico.

The spark of competition reignited in Annie’s 61st year when she boldly declared her intention to race in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. With her KTM ready and practice bringing her speed back, Annie became the oldest competitor—both car and bike—to tackle the legendary mountain. For the next two years, she charged up Pikes Peak, earning respect from a younger generation of riders. Even in her later years, Annie remained an inspiring figure, famously stating, “Unfamiliar dirt roads are explored nearly every ride. As a 68-year-old lady, it is rewarding to still be able to tackle really tough trail rides. The future looks good!”

A Lasting Legacy

Sadly, Annie’s incredible journey came to an end on December 22, 2007. She left behind a legacy as one of the most versatile and accomplished motorcyclists in America. Annie Brokaw’s story is one of passion, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of adventure, inspiring generations of women and men to embrace the thrill of riding.

Her spirit lives on in the trails she rode and the countless lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey in the world of motorcycling.