Women Specific Bicycles

The factors that lead to the recognition of the need for women specific bicycles are:

Differing anatomy

It is a common notion that women have longer legs and shorter torsos when compared to men. The design of women specific bicycles is such that the distance between the seat post and the handle bar is reduced to ensure a comfortable riding position for women.

Shoulders

Most women have narrower shoulders when compared to men. The ideal positioning for one's arms while holding the handle bar is shoulder width. Women specific bicycles are designed to have shorter handle bars to address this vital requirement.

Saddle

Women tend to have wider sit bones and hence require a broader saddle. Saddles vary in design and gender specific options are available. Women specific bicycles are fitted with saddles that are meant for women which ensure a comfortable ride.

Reach from levers to bars

Most women have smaller hands. This could make the reach, i.e. the space between the shifters and the grip on the handle bar, far off to shift gears comfortably while riding. Women specific bicycles are designed in such a way that the reach is smaller and hence easier to shift gears while pedaling.

Frame weight

On an average, women tend to be smaller built and lighter than men. The frame of Women specific bicycles is designed with materials that make it lighter and easier to handle.

While taking the above mentioned points into consideration, it is also possible to make adjustments to a unisex bicycle to make it more comfortable to ride on. The following are some ideas to make adjustments you a unisex bicycle.

Frame size

If you are on the shorter side, go for a smaller frame and get a bicycle fit done to suit your body's dimensions. Changing your wheels to 650C wheels could help reduce the toe overlap.

Shorter stem

If you find that the top tube on the bicycle is too long, try replacing the stem with a shorter stem. This reduces the length of the bicycle, though it tends to change your riding position a bit.

Narrower handlebars

Change the handle bars from the handlebar on the unisex bicycle to a narrower, more female specific handle bar. Though, this will add to your budget while buying the bicycle as they will come at an additional price.

Women