Women are shattering glass ceilings in all areas, and building custom motorcycles is no exception. In an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on the amazing female builders who are bringing a new level crafts(wo)manship to this industry. Prepare to be wowed by their metal masterpieces.

1. J. Shia, owner of Madhouse Motors, built her first bike when she was just 15 years old. She comes from a long line of mechanics (all men). Shia thought she'd help out to pay the bills from art school but her passion and skill for the industry took hold and she has been blazing a trail ever since. Madhouse specializes in restoring antique and vintage motorcycles.

@themouseandthemoto

2. Savannah Rose started wrenching on motorcycles at 27, but has been working on fixing up classic automobiles since she was 16. And it shows. You can see how her passion fuels the work she does.

3. Jessica Ruse of Dead Center Cycles has been working in the motorcycle industry since high school. Dead Center has won multiple awards for their custom builds and well known for quality in the Washington motorcycle community. 

4. Shirley Petchprapa started her professional career as an art director and graphic designer. Largely self-taught, she co-owned a fabrication shop for 5 years working with metal, wood and other materials. She left and opened her own fabrication shop, issaralabs, in 2019.

5. Ave Wolff describes herself as an auto mechanic by day, bike builder by night, and an ever-aspiring welder in between. She's mastered her craft by following some key life lessons: step out of your comfort zone, ask questions, and learn from your mistakes (getting it right the first time isn't her main goal). 

6. Karlee Cobb of Klock Werks stands for things that are cool-looking, very functional, and inspirational. Her team puts everything they can into making the best and coolest parts. It all started in 1997 with a couple of small town kids; twenty years later, Klock Werks is worldwide.

7. Jody Perewitz's love for motorcycles began as a child and it has only grown. In 2011, she made her way into the record books while at the famous Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah for being the first woman ever to ride an American V-Twin powered motorcycle at over 200 MPH. Jody doesn’t just ride, she is also the Manager of Marketing for the nationally-renowned Perewitz Cycle Fabrication of Halifax, MA 

8. Suzy Pilaczynski is co-owner and a driving (riding) force of Old-Stf Cycle. In addition to building bikes, this shop manufactures a line of parts and accessories in the USA. Old-Stf is your "mom and pop" type of shop and a place to learn, laugh, and be inspired.