Cycling is a fantastic way to keep fit and commute to work or even a way to enjoy exploring the world from a different view point. However, when it comes to the market of Biking clothing and events we often see that it is heavily aimed at men. But we have noticed in recent years that the awareness of ladies and mixed cycling events and clothing has come to light which makes the sport feel much more inclusive for all parties involved.

Therefore, within this article we are going to see how this new movement in the cycling community is shaping the sport by promoting women’s participation. So if you want to find out how this much-loved activity is evolving or how you can get involved too, then keep on reading.

Benefits of Cycling

Cycling has many benefits on your health and well-being which means that it should not just be limited and encouraged by only one gender. Everyone can reap the number of positive physical and mental effects of biking to improve their lifestyle. So whether it is commuting, regular exercise or exploration which peaks your interest, here is the list of benefits that cycling can have:

  • Improves cardiovascular fitness
  • Helps build muscle strength
  • Enhances flexibility and joint mobility
  • Fantastic mood booster
  • Reduces effects of anxiety and depression
  • Increases cognitive functions
  • Improves posture
  • Strengthen bones
  • Reduces body fat for weight loss
  • Great form of injury and illness rehabilitation

Women’s Only and Inclusive Events

When it comes to improving the awareness of women’s participation in cycling, whether it be casual clubs or organized events, we have seen an increase in popularity over recent years. So if you are wanting to scout out a competition to attend as a viewer or ride or maybe even join a local club, take a look at our lists below. Within this section of the article we have explored the most popular events and clubs across the UK.

Cycling Events

  • Assos Women’s League – South London
  • Thundercross – Kent
  • Rapha’s Women’s 100 and Festive 500
  • White Rose Classic – Yorkshire Dales
  • Dunwich Dynamo – East London
  • LWRL – London
  • Belles of Belvoir – Leicestershire
  • Orro Tour – Sussex
  • OVO Energy Women’s Tour – South England

Top Cycling Clubs

  • HSBC Breeze Rides
  • Velociposse – London
  • Team Glow – Manchester
  • Kent Velo Girls – Kent
  • Rapha CC
  • Isis Cycling – Oxford
  • Belles on Bikes – Scotland
  • Hackney CC – London
  • Brixton BMX – London

In the list above we have only covered the key areas in the UK for organised women’s cycling events and groups. But if you are unable to find any on the list nearer to where you live, you can still take part in organised groups and events by browsing and researching local collectives and competitions closer to where you live.

Specially Designed Ladies Bikes

When it comes to choosing the perfect bike for you, there are a number of things you need to consider before jumping in and purchasing a new bike off the rack. Most commonly standardised bikes are produced for a regulated height range with limited customisation. These are suitable for first time riders if you can find a bike at the suitable height for you.

However, if you want to invest in a customised bike, you can look into a frame more suited for women. These are often lower than men’s as ladies tend to be shorter in height. This would therefore give you a more customised and personal feel when you go out on a ride. And by purchasing a bike at the right size for you would improve your experience and comfort when out and about.

On the market you can find bespoke bikes aimed at women in specific from the make-up of the framework to the additional detailing and attachments. So it is most definitely worth researching what requirements you need from your cycle before heading to the store.

Here are just a few example bikes created by companies especially for ladies:

  • Trek Marlin 5 2019 Women’s Mountain Bike - £395
  • British Eagle Bella 2019 Women’s Hybrid Bike - £250
  • Dawes Duchess 2019 Women’s Hybrid Bike - £350
  • Specialized Dolce 2019 Women’s Road Bike - £ 630
  • Cannondale Synapse Alloy Disc 105 2019 Women’s Road Bike - £1,200

Women’s Cycling Gear

Along with the introduction of events, groups and specialised designed bikes, we have also seen multiple brands step up and create a lady’s range of cycling clothing. As well as this we have also noticed a number of bespoke women’s cycling clothing brands. Whether you are starting your new cycling wardrobe or looking to update it, here is all the things you need to include:

  • High-vis jacket or vest for increased visibility at night
  • Shorts for summer rides
  • Leggings or trousers for cooler climates
  • T-shirts and long sleeve tops for all weathers
  • Sportswear with sweat-resistant technology
  • Clothing with weather-proof enhancements
  • Protection – helmets, gloves, elbow pads

The brands listed below cater for lady cyclists whether that be specifically or inclusive with their men’s collection. These companies create high quality, performance enhancing gear which is built to last and be comfortable throughout you ride:

  • Velo Vixen
  • Loffler
  • Gore
  • Muddy Fox
  • Wiggle
  • Cafe Du Cycliste
  • Endura
  • Tenn
  • Altura
  • Polaris

Feeling Inspired? Get Involved

Within this article we have covered a variety of ways in which the cycling community is promoting women’s participation in the sport. From the introduction of women’s only and mixed cycling events to specially designed clothing and bikes, the biking community has evolved and is still evolving.

So if we have inspired you to lace up your trainers and hop on the saddle or seek out events near you to watch, then let us know over on our social media pages. You can also shop our outstanding range of women’s cycling clothing and accessories to assist you on your new adventure over at Sports Fitness.

This article was written exclusively for Sports Fitness by Loren Astbury