There’s something about early May in Colorado—the roads start calling a little louder, the bikes come out a little more often, and the riding community reconnects after winter. On Sunday, May 3, 2026, that energy comes together for the 6th Annual Colorado International Female Ride, a celebration of women riders, shared roads, and the freedom that only two wheels can offer.
Hosted by Audrey Paulus and Laurie Montoya, and sponsored by Rider Justice, the ride begins at Mile High Harley-Davidson in Parker and winds its way to the Wide Open Saloon, giving riders a reason to slow down, connect, and enjoy the ride as much as the destination. This year’s event is also a poker run, with plenty of prizes along the way and a relaxed, social atmosphere at every stop.
International Female Ride Day: A Global Movement
The Colorado International Female Ride has always been closely tied to International Female Ride Day (IFRD), a global event founded in 2007 by Vicki Gray and held each year on the first Saturday in May—May 2nd in 2026. IFRD was created to bring visibility to women riders around the world and to remind the motorcycle community that women have always been part of its story.
Respecting Colorado Tradition—and Expanding Support
In Colorado, however, the first weekend of May also holds another deeply respected event: the Chicano Pride Ride, a long-standing tradition with a strong focus on community fundraising and giving back. Rather than forcing riders to choose between two meaningful causes, host Audrey Paulus made a deliberate and inclusive decision.
Instead of competing for attendance, COIFRD moved its ride to Sunday, May 3rd.
The result is a powerful example of what today’s riding culture can be: cooperative rather than competitive. Women riders—and their families—are no longer forced to choose which community to support. They can participate in both, strengthening the broader Colorado motorcycle family while honoring traditions on all sides.
A Ride That Reflects the Evolution of Women in Motorcycling
Women’s participation in motorcycling is often described as “growing,” but history shows it has always been present. From early 20th-century endurance riders to racers, mechanics, club founders, and cross-country adventurers, women have shaped the motorcycle industry—often without recognition.
In Colorado, that legacy is amplified by the landscape itself. Mountain passes, unpredictable weather, and rugged backroads have long demanded skill and self-reliance. Women riders here didn’t just adapt—they thrived. Today’s events, like COIFRD, build on that foundation, offering visibility, mentorship, and community for riders of every experience level.
Poker Run, Prizes, and an Open Invitation
While the focus is on women riders, the invitation is open. Husbands, significant others, friends, and men riders who want to show support are encouraged to join in. The ride isn’t about exclusion—it’s about riding together and celebrating the women who help shape Colorado’s motorcycle culture.
Riders planning to attend are encouraged to pre-register to help with planning and prize coordination. Event information is available on our Facebook page or on our website by clicking on the highlighted links.
Rolling Forward—Together
Starting at Mile High Harley-Davidson in Parker and ending at Wide Open Saloon, the 6th Annual Colorado International Female Ride is more than a route on a map. It’s a reflection of how far women riders have come, the respect they’ve earned, and the intentional choices being made to build a stronger, more unified motorcycle community in Colorado.
On May 3rd, the road belongs to everyone—but the message is clear: women riders are not new, not temporary, and not going anywhere.
