Rev Up Your Writing Career: 7 Lucrative Motorbike and Cycling Markets

In today’s world, two-wheeled transport is gaining traction faster than a Tour de France sprint. Whether it’s the roar of a motorcycle or the quiet whir of bicycle gears there is a growing demand for quality content in this niche.

For writers looking to pedal their way to success or cruise into new territories, the motorbike and cycling industry offers a wealth of writing opportunities. Let’s gear up and explore seven paying markets that could transform your freelance writing career.

Table of Contents

Adventure Cycling: Where Words Meet Wanderlust

Adventure cycling has exploded in popularity, creating a goldmine for writers who can blend the thrill of the open road with practical advice. This niche combines the best of travel writing with the specific needs of cyclists.

Market Demand and Content Types

The adventure cycling market craves content that inspires and informs. Editors are on the lookout for:

Route guides: Detailed descriptions of cycling routes, including difficulty levels, scenery, and points of interest.
Gear reviews: In-depth analyses of bikes, accessories, and camping equipment.
Personal narratives: Engaging stories that capture the essence of long-distance cycling adventures.

Publications to Target

Several cycling publications are hungry for fresh content:

Adventure Cyclist Magazine
Bicycle Touring Pro
Cycling UK

These outlets often pay competitive rates, with some offering up to $0.50 per word for feature articles.

Submission Tips

When pitching to adventure cycling publications:

Highlight unique angles or unexplored routes
Showcase your personal cycling experience
Provide high-quality photos to accompany your writing

“The best adventure cycling stories make readers feel like they’re right there on the saddle with you.” – Emma Welton, Editor at Cycling Journeys

Motorcycle Tourism: The Open Road Beckons

The motorcycle tourism sector is revving up, offering writers a chance to combine their love for two-wheeled freedom with travel writing expertise.

Content Opportunities

Motorcycle writing opportunities in this niche include:

Destination guides tailored for motorcyclists
Trip planning articles (routes, accommodations, bike-friendly stops)
Cultural insights from a rider’s perspective

Target Publications

Consider pitching to these motorcycle publications:

Rider Magazine
RoadRUNNER
Motorcycle Mojo

Pitch and Pay

When approaching motorcycle tourism markets:

Emphasize your riding credentials
Pitch ideas that align with the publication’s style and audience
Be prepared to negotiate rates, which can range from $100 to $500 per article

Publication	Pay Range	Article Length
Rider Magazine	$200-$400	1500-2500 words
RoadRUNNER	$250-$500	2000-3000 words
Motorcycle Mojo	$150-$300	1000-2000 words

Technical Writing for Bike Manufacturers: Precision on Paper

In the world of two-wheelers, clear and accurate documentation is crucial. Technical writers play a vital role in translating complex information into user-friendly content.

Types of Technical Writing

Bike manufacturers need various forms of technical content:

User manuals
Specification sheets
Product descriptions
Maintenance guides

Breaking into the Market

To enter this specialized field:

Develop a strong understanding of bike mechanics
Familiarize yourself with industry standards and terminology
Create a portfolio showcasing your ability to explain complex concepts simply

Salary Expectations

Technical writers in the cycling industry can expect competitive compensation:

Full-time positions: $50,000 – $80,000 annually
Freelance rates: $40 – $100 per hour

Cycling and Fitness Publications: Pedaling Towards Health

The intersection of cycling and fitness is a booming niche with plenty of room for writers to make their mark.

Content Areas

Major Publications

Consider pitching to these established and emerging platforms:

Bicycling Magazine
VeloNews
Cycling Weekly
Souke Sports (online platform)

Submission Process and Pay

When submitting to cycling and fitness publications:

Study each outlet’s submission guidelines carefully
Provide credentials or certifications related to fitness and cycling
Expect pay rates ranging from $0.10 to $1 per word, depending on the publication and your experience

Case Study: Breaking into Cycling Fitness Writing

Sarah Chen, a certified cycling coach, started her writing career by submitting short tips to cycling blogs. Within a year, she landed a regular column in a regional cycling magazine, which led to assignments from national publications. Her success came from combining her expertise with relatable, actionable content for cyclists of all levels.

Motorcycle Lifestyle Magazines: Capturing the Culture

Motorcycle lifestyle writing goes beyond the mechanics delving into the heart of biker culture and community.

Content Niches

Publication Opportunities

Both print and digital outlets are hungry for quality content:

Easyriders
Iron & Air
BikeEXIF

Establishing Yourself

To become a regular contributor:

Immerse yourself in motorcycle culture
Develop a unique voice that resonates with riders
Network at motorcycle events and online forums
Start with smaller publications to build your portfolio

“The best motorcycle lifestyle writers don’t just know bikes; they live and breathe the culture.” – Jack Harper, Editor at Throttle Life

Sustainable Transportation Advocacy: Writing for Change

As cities worldwide embrace eco-friendly transportation, writers play a crucial role in advocating for sustainable mobility solutions.

Writing Opportunities

Content needs in this sector include:

Policy briefs on bike infrastructure
Community engagement materials
Grant proposals for cycling initiatives
Educational content on the benefits of bike commuting

Non-Profit and Government Initiatives

Consider writing for organizations such as:

People for Bikes
League of American Bicyclists
Local transportation departments

Compensation and Career Growth

While pay rates may be lower than commercial markets, this niche offers:

Stable, long-term contracts
Opportunities to influence public policy
Potential for career advancement in urban planning and policy

Freelance Writer Pay Rates in this sector typically range from $30 to $50 per hour, with full-time positions offering salaries between $40,000 and $70,000 annually.

E-bike and Micromobility Tech Blogs: The Future of Urban Transport

The e-bike and micromobility sector is buzzing with innovation, creating a need for tech-savvy writers who understand the nuances of this evolving market.

Content Needs

Hot topics in this niche include:

E-bike and scooter reviews
Industry news and trend analysis
Urban mobility solutions and infrastructure
Regulatory updates and their impact on the industry

Emerging Publications

Keep an eye on these up-and-coming platforms:

Electrek
Micromobility Industries
Electric Bike Report

Positioning Yourself as an Expert

To succeed in this cutting-edge niche:

Stay updated on the latest micromobility technologies
Attend industry trade shows and conferences
Develop relationships with manufacturers and tech startups
Craft content that bridges the gap between tech specs and user experience

Conclusion

The world of motorbike and cycling writing offers a diverse landscape of opportunities for freelance writers. From the adrenaline-pumping world of motorcycle tourism to the eco-conscious realm of sustainable transportation advocacy, there’s a niche for every interest and expertise level.

The key to success in these niches is to combine passion with professionalism. Whether you are crafting a technical manual for a cutting-edge e-bike or penning a heartfelt essay about a cross country motorcycle journey your words have the power to inspire, inform, and ignite the two-wheeled dreams of readers around the world.

Nieka Ranises