Cristine Sommer-Simmons

Cristine Sommer-Simmons: A Pioneering Force in Women’s Motorcycling

Cristine Sommer-Simmons has dedicated her life to blazing trails for women in the motorcycling world. Her love affair with motorcycles began at the young age of nine as an eager passenger on her step-father’s bike. By 14, she was riding solo, and at 19, she bought her first Harley-Davidson. But Chris’s passion for riding didn’t stop there; it propelled her into the world of publishing, advocacy, and ultimately, into the annals of motorcycle history.

In 1984, Cris co-founded the second chapter of Women in the Wind, a national organization dedicated to uniting women motorcyclists. Just a year later, she took a bold step forward and co-founded Harley Women magazine—the world’s first motorcycle magazine for women. During her time as co-publisher, editor, and writer, Cris crisscrossed the country on her Harley, collecting stories and experiences that showcased the strength, resilience, and passion of women riders.

Cris’s work with Harley Women made her a prominent voice in the motorcycling community. The magazine quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality content and honest representation of female motorcyclists, filling a much-needed gap in the industry. As women riders gained visibility, Cris emerged as a true advocate, appearing in countless national newspaper articles, radio segments, and television talk shows to speak on behalf of the growing number of female motorcyclists. Her pioneering efforts made her a beacon for women who aspired to break stereotypes and take to the road on their own terms.

Advocate, Journalist, and Role Model

In 1988, Cris’s impact was formally recognized when she was awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership to Women in the Wind. She also became a Sustaining Member of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), reinforcing her commitment to the broader rights and safety of all motorcyclists. Her contributions were further celebrated in 1990 when she was honored as a pioneering woman motorcyclist in the American Motorcycle Association’s Women in Motorcycling exhibit at the AMA Hall of Fame Museum.

When Harley Women ceased publication, Cris’s journey as a writer didn’t end. She transitioned into freelance journalism, bringing her insights and expertise to major publications like American Iron, Motorcycle Collector, IronWorks, Easyriders, and V-Twin. Her work reached a global audience, as she published articles in magazines in Japan, Spain, and Australia, while serving as a columnist for Hot Bike Japan for 12 years. Her words inspired a new generation of women riders and established her as a trusted voice in the motorcycle community worldwide.

A Children’s Author and Hall of Famer

In 1994, Cris turned her attention to the next generation of motorcyclists. She wrote and self-published the award-winning children’s book Patrick Wants to Ride. The story, which captures the joy of riding through a child’s eyes, struck a chord with families everywhere. The book earned the prestigious AMA Brighter Image MVP Award and has sold over 12,000 copies, currently in its third printing. This accomplishment highlighted her ability to connect with riders and non-riders alike, inspiring people of all ages to share in the freedom and excitement of motorcycles.

Cristine’s dedication to the riding community has been recognized through numerous accolades, including induction into both the National Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation Hall of Fame. She is also featured in Biker Women, a documentary that shines a light on the lives of female motorcyclists and the challenges they have overcome to earn their place on the road.

A Life Lived on Two Wheels

Today, Cris rides a 1988 Harley-Davidson Heritage and a 1934 Harley-Davidson VLD. For her, motorcycling has always been more than just a pastime—it’s a way of life. She and her husband, Patrick Simmons, guitarist and founding member of the Doobie Brothers, share a love for the road that goes beyond words. The two first met in 1989 during a cross-country ride, and have been inseparable ever since, supporting each other through countless adventures on two wheels.

Now living in Maui, Hawaii, Cris continues to be active in the motorcycling community while enjoying time with her family. Her three children—Lindsey, Josh, and Patrick—have grown up watching their mother blaze her own trail, leading by example with grace, determination, and an unwavering love for the ride.

Legacy of Inspiration

Cristine Sommer-Simmons’s legacy is one of inspiration and perseverance. She has shattered stereotypes and paved the way for countless women to take their place in the motorcycling world. Through her work as a journalist, author, and advocate, Cris has shown that women not only have a place in motorcycling—they have a voice, a presence, and a powerful story to tell.

Her journey from a young girl on the back of a bike to a Hall of Famer has been defined by passion, courage, and a relentless drive to empower others. Cris’s story is a reminder that whether it’s in the saddle of a Harley or in the pages of a magazine, there’s no limit to what one determined woman can achieve. Today, the roar of women’s motorcycles is louder than ever, and Cris’s contributions will forever echo in the history of motorcycling.