Choosing the Right Mountain Bike for Women

Website design By BotEap.comWhile the gear may not look much different, women’s mountain bikes do have some major differences from what they make for men.

Website design By BotEap.comAnything related to mountain bikes can and often is designed just for women. Glove and shoe sizes are just the most obvious examples. But while many women can ride a standard mountain bike, this centerpiece often makes a makeover for the female cyclist as well.

Website design By BotEap.comWomen cyclists often have as much stamina and skill as any man. But on average, men have more upper body strength and bigger thighs. As a result, the bikes are sometimes scaled down in various ways.

Website design By BotEap.comA women’s mountain bike is made from lighter materials to keep weight to a minimum. The frame’s ground clearance is slightly lower to account for its shorter average height. The larger 29″ wheels that men sometimes prefer are rarer on women’s mountain bikes. Head angles tend to be sharper to accommodate shorter arms and torsos.

Website design By BotEap.comThe seat can undergo a transformation. Women’s pelvic bones are wider, so the saddle will widen to compensate. Butterfly seats (a triangular design) are much more commonly found on a women’s mountain bike than a men’s. Gel packs are most common on women’s bike seats to accommodate sharp ‘seat points’.

Website design By BotEap.comEven the cuffs can be tailored for women. With (again, on average) smaller hands, a smaller diameter grip is helpful. Special winged end grips increase the amount of control and require less wrist and finger force to produce the necessary results.

Website design By BotEap.comHydration systems can also be specifically geared towards the needs of women. The amount and type of fluid intake for them is somewhat different. Both sexes need a replacement of water and minerals during the trip, but the amount of potassium, sugar and more is modified to meet their specific needs. Smaller diameter bottles are also an option.

Website design By BotEap.comWomen have slightly different internal body temperatures, on average, than men and generate heat at a slower rate. As a result, riding shorts and riding shirts are created with the two different genders in mind. Location and degree of absorption, padding locations, degree of movement in the back, and more all receive special treatment.

Website design By BotEap.comIt’s certainly possible for women to ride a man’s mountain bike, use the same seat, wear the same clothes, and more. In fact, since we’re talking about averages, that may be the right decision for a specific woman. But for most, to optimize the ride, it’s best to look for bikes, gear and clothing with the attributes of a woman on display.