(MONEY Magazine) – LEADERS OF THE PACK. The next Hell's Angel you see could be your sister. Women are now kick-starting 8% of the 400,000 motorcycles that were sold last year, up from 1% in 1960. And even more are revving up: Women account for one-third of the 108,000 pupils enrolled in motorcyclist education classes. "They like the sense of power," explains Gaspar Trama of Trama's Auto School in Woodhaven, N.Y. Which bikes do women buy? Sport models, with low-slung handlebars and high-performance engines. Last year, nearly a quarter of the estimated 3,000 buyers of the Kawasaki EX250 Ninja ($3,299; top speed: 100 mph) were women. While most states do not require lessons for a motorcycle license (except for riders under age 21), a three-day safety course may cut 15% off your insurance bills, which run $100 to $600. Call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (800-477-4700) to find a certified RiderCourse, offered at 1,000 locations. The 16-hour beginner class includes classroom prep and on- wheels training. Classes can be free or can go as high as $350, depending on location and state funding.