Sturgis Rally 2026: Women’s cross-country rides to culminate at Pearl’s Jam celebration
Two nationwide women’s motorcycle rides will conclude during the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, bringing hundreds of women riders together for the annual Pearl’s Jam celebration at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame on Aug. 10.
The event will unite participants in the Women Riders World Relay (WRWR) and Shantell’s Sisterhood Ride to Sturgis, two long-distance motorcycle journeys that celebrate women in motorcycling and highlight the growing influence of female riders across the powersports industry.
Women Riders World Relay
The Women Riders World Relay is led by co-founder Liza Miller and long-distance rider Wendy Crockett on a 13,000-plus-mile coast-to-coast ride. Women riders from across the country have joined individual legs of the journey as the group attempts to complete a GPS-tracked route spelling “WRWR 2026” across the United States.
Sisterhood Ride
Shantell Williams’ Sisterhood Ride to Sturgis has traveled from Florida to South Dakota, honoring pioneering motorcyclist Bessie Stringfield, known as the “Motorcycle Queen of Miami,” ahead of her induction into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame. The ride also marks Williams’ return to cross-country riding following her recovery from a serious motorcycle crash.
Pearl’s Jam
Both rides will culminate at Pearl’s Jam, an annual event celebrating women in motorcycling, held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. The program includes rider presentations, book signings, appearances by motorcycle personalities, a group photo and activities recognizing the museum’s 25th anniversary.
For motorcycle dealers attending the 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the event underscores the continued growth of women riders, one of the industry’s fastest-growing segments. Manufacturers and dealerships have increasingly invested in rider training, community events, apparel, accessories and marketing initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining female motorcyclists.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame houses more than 80 vintage and custom motorcycles. Its Hall of Fame recognizes nearly 300 individuals whose contributions have helped shape the motorcycle industry and riding culture.
