Harley-Davidson and Buell Announce Presenting Sponsorship of 2009 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference

Harley, Buell and AMA Partner to Celebrate Women Riders

MILWAUKEE, December 22, 2008: Harley-Davidson and Buell are thrilled to announce their Presenting Sponsorship of the 2009 American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) International Women & Motorcycling Conference. From August 19-22, women will celebrate the freedom and control that comes with taking to the open road on two wheels at the fifth AMA Women's Conference in scenic Keystone, Colo.

This will be the second time the Motor Company has been the Presenting Sponsor of the conference, which will offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for thousands of women riders to come together and enjoy the camaraderie, scenic roads and informational seminars during the conference.

According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, women now account for 12.6 percent of all motorcycle riders, a 29 percent increase since 2003. As a reflection of this trend, the AMA has seen an increase in conference attendance over the years and anticipates that it will double at the 2009 event with more than 2,200 participants.

"Harley-Davidson and Buell are excited to be very involved with this incredibly important -- and fun -- event to bring together thousands of women riders," said Leslie Prevish, Women's Outreach Manager, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "The Motor Company has been committed to encouraging women to ride for decades -- even marketing the 1920 Sport model as 'The Woman's Outdoor Companion.' Being the main sponsor of the AMA conference is another example of how Harley-Davidson continues to promote and support women in the sport of motorcycling."

"The AMA could not be more pleased to welcome Harley-Davidson and Buell as the presenting sponsors of the fifth AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference," said AMA Marketing and Special Events Manager Tigra Tsujikawa. "This highly anticipated event brings the very best of the motorcycling world to women motorcyclists. It's going to be a first-class conference, and we are excited to align ourselves with the world-class products and people of Harley-Davidson and Buell."

In addition to a wide range of daily workshops, conference attendees will have the opportunity to demo new bikes, shop for the latest gadgets and gear at the vendor marketplace, and enjoy after-hours social activities. The conference is not restricted to women only -- attendees are encouraged to register their spouses, partners, family and friends. Keystone is located just 90 miles west of Denver. With the picturesque Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, riders will be able to take advantage of the scenic riding opportunities in the area, including some legendary two-lane, off-road and dual-sport adventures.

Reserve Your Spot

The fifth AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference will be held at the Keystone Resort & Conference Center in Keystone, Colo., on Aug. 19-22, 2009. Lodging reservations can be made by calling (800) 258-0437; mention group code CZ0AMAW. Early in 2009, the AMA will provide conference registration information at WOMEN AND MOTORCYCLES. Sign up for conference email alerts by e-mailing the AMA at info@womenandmotorcycling.com.

What Else Harley's Doing to Inspire Women to Ride

Harley-Davidson's We Ride is a comprehensive and inspirational overview on what a new rider or a woman interested in riding needs to know about getting into the sport. It features information on how and where women can learn to ride with details on the Rider's Edge(R) New Rider Course and the best way to fit a motorcycle for a woman's ergonomic and functional needs. It also includes tips on getting involved and staying active with riding groups, as well as inspirational stories from real women who have answered the call of the open road. The special 48-page riding guide is available for free download at http://www.harley-davidson.com/womenriders and can also be picked up at any local Harley-Davidson dealership.

Harley-Davidson dealerships across the country are hosting women-only Garage Parties to encourage them to get involved in motorcycling. The Harley-Davidson Garage Party event provides a non-intimidating environment for women to learn more about motorcycling and meet others who are interested in riding.

Since Harley-Davidson knows now is the time to ride, and for men and women alike to share the passion for riding with others, they created Share Your Spark(TM): A Guide to Mentoring -- a tool for current and aspiring riders on how to be a resource and support system to others during their motorcycling journey. Share Your Spark mentoring materials consist of a DVD featuring tips on how to become or find a mentor and stories from successful mentoring experiences, a Share Your Spark lapel pin and a Journey Planning & Reflection Guide.