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Trailblazers on Two Wheels: How South Africa's Female
Superbike Duo is Revolutionizing Motorsport for Women
The Power of Two: Meet South In 2016, Mo broke barriers by Nicole has also served as a brand
Africa's Female Superbike Icons becoming South Africa's first black ambassador for both Ducati South
female superbike racer, a milestone Africa and BMW Motorrad South
Morongoa “Mo” Mahope and Nicole
van Aswegen, better known in racing that brought her into the spotlight. Africa, underlining her standing as
circles as Mo83 and Nix21, represent That same year, she was appointed a one of the most influential female
the face of a new era in South African brand ambassador for Motorsport racers in the country.
motorsport. Together, they are the South Africa, recognizing her Beyond Racing: Building a
country's only female superbike potential and influence. Later, she M o v e m e n t w i t h B a s a d i i n
racing duo, but their ambitions joined the ranks of Ducati South Motorsport
extend far beyond personal success Africa's ambassadors, and most Mo and Nicole's impact is not
on the track. recently, she became a BMW
Motorrad South Africa ambassador. confined to race day. Together, they
Mo and Nicole are more than racers; established Basadi in Motorsport, a
they are passionate advocates for Mo's journey is a testament to the fact non-profit company with a clear
women in motorsport, founders of that it's never too late to chase your mission: to engage and inspire
the non-profit organisation Basadi in dreams, no matter the obstacles or women in South Africa to take up
Motorsport — 'Basadi' meaning societal expectations. m o t o r s p o r t , p r o m o t e r i d e r
'Women' in Sesotho — and tireless N i c o l e ' s L e g a c y : R a c i n g development, and lead safety
champions for increasing female Trailblazer and Champion awareness campaigns targeted at
participation in a sport still female riders and novices alike.
overwhelmingly male.
Why Basadi?
Mo's Journey: From Novice Rider The choice of the name Basadi is
to Superbike Pioneer
significant. It embraces the cultural
heritage and identity of women in
Southern Africa while serving as a
banner for empowerment and
inclusion.
Nicole explains, “Our main focus is
to encourage women on the road and
those dreaming of racing to step
forward. If Basadi can become a
strong advocate for women in
motorsport, it will help grow the
female rider community in South
Africa.”
Addressing the Gender Gap
South Africa faces challenges in
gender representation within
motorsport. Female participation has
Nicole van Aswegen's motorsport declined over the years, lagging
pedigree runs deep. She's a true behind many other countries where
legend in the South African women's motorcycling is thriving.
motorcycle racing scene. Nicole was
the first woman ever to compete in “There is much work to be done,”
the national 600cc championship Nicole acknowledges. “We want to
back in 2009 — a breakthrough in a increase female rider numbers and
fiercely competitive environment. eventually create female-only race
categories. This would provide more
Mo's story is one of late blooming Not only did she compete, but she opportunities and visibility for
p a s s i o n a n d i n c r e d i b l e also made history as the first female women on the track.”
determination. She only learned to rider to reach the podium in a national
ride a motorcycle at age 30, an age Supersport race. Her accolades Programs and Initiatives:
when many professional athletes are include winning the Ladies 600 class Creating Pathways for Women
well into their careers. Yet, what at the 2010 Northern Regions Basadi is not just a name or a symbol
began as a new hobby quickly Motorcycle Championship. — it's a movement backed by
transformed into a burning ambition.
Lady Rider Magazine 16 June 2025
