Kellee Irwin on her mission to grow the female motorcycle community

As the first woman to chair several Canadian motorcycle organizations, Kellee shook up what she calls the “old boys’ club” and brought more female riders to the table. A passionate enduro racer, she lives her life in true ORANGE spirit. In this ORANGE BOARD interview series, Kellee shares her countless adventures and what keeps her riding forward.

Tell us about a special moment, experience, or trip you had with your favorite KTM motorcycle.

This is a tough one after almost 30 years of riding KTM. To me, KTM is more than a brand – It’s a lifestyle and a community. I have a long list of amazing times with family and friends on my KTM.

My first thought was racing – winning my national title after finishing second nine times (that’s a story for another day!) – and riding with my family.

However, I decided to share a different story. I had recently moved to British Columbia and met some incredible riding friends and their families. It was Canada Day weekend, and about 10 riders and friends headed to a little town called Spences Bridge, located in a beautiful canyon in the middle of BC.

The area was very technical and challenging on my KTM 350 four-stroke. There was a massive climb to 6,400 feet above sea level that ended at Cornwall Heights. I decided to tackle the technical climb up the back instead of taking the two-track. The loose shale went on for hours with endless switchbacks.

With amazing encouragement from my friends, I made it to the top – to what felt like the top of the world – with incredible views of mountain range after mountain range. I was proud of pushing hard, staying focused, and showing grit and tenacity. The grin on my face and those views made it all worthwhile.

I think I told the world – or at least my social media – and it remains one of my favorite bench-racing stories.

What do you think should be the outcome or influence of the ORANGE BOARD – and what’s your role in that?

From my perspective, our role is to provide input and be the voice of the customer and the community. It was evident from our first meeting that the leadership team is sincere and committed to listening to us, the riders.

What does being part of the ORANGE BOARD mean to you?

It truly is an honor to have been chosen for the Orange Board. For me, this reflects being a third-generation rider in Canada. I’m proud to represent Canada and female riders.

Being one of the first generation of women enduro riders in Canada decades ago and now part of the Orange Board has been a rewarding journey. KTM is part of my lifestyle, and orange is present in almost every aspect of my life. 

What’s your life outside of the ORANGE BOARD like?

By day, I’m a senior insurance executive and volunteer for several boards. I spent 21 years chairing and volunteering for the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada, the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame, and the Ontario Federation of Off-Road Riders.

To be a stronger rider, I train with a women’s boxing program called Girls Just Wanna Box. In Canadian winters, you’ll find me skiing in Whistler, BC. I enjoy the theater and collect great wines and Fluevog shoes.

What makes the KTM community special in your eyes?

The people. You just meet the nicest people. I’ve been engaged in the motorcycle community my entire life, and it’s the people plus the adventure that make it special.

KTM has allowed me to spend time with family and friends and travel the world on two wheels. It’s more than a motorcycle to me.

What’s the best advice you’d give to someone just starting out with motorcycles or motorcycling?

My advice is to start with professional training. Where I live in Toronto, we’re lucky to have two great off-road training facilities for new riders within a couple of hours’ drive, along with on-road training programs in the city.

For new female riders, I have a list of go-to dealers that treat them with respect and help them find a bike that builds confidence. I’m always happy to go bike shopping with new women riders.

Do you have a favorite riding playlist, ritual, or superstition?

An interesting question! I’d say my ritual is how I pack my gear bag. I pack it the same way every time so I never forget anything.

After the first meeting – would this still be your answer to why you wanted to be an ORANGE BOARD member?

As a rider for over 50 years and a former enduro rider including a women’s national title, the voice of female riders who ride multiple disciplines is an important voice for today and in the future.  Women riders need a voice at the table.

I would say yes, but maybe I would add a little something: I have two KTMs in my garage and have been riding Orange for over 25 years. KTM – and being an ORANGE BLEEDER – is part of who I am. Professionally, I lead a travel insurance company and manage risk. It may sound strange, but those two worlds balance out very well.