subject: How Bike Producers Are Addressing The Womens Market [print this page] It's gratifying to see the efforts that major bike manufacturers have made to address the huge women's market that exists for quality performance bikes. And there's nowhere that this applies more, than in the field of hybrid bikes.
You'll tend to find that the designers use the same components on their mens and womens models - items like gears, wheels, brakes, suspension and so on, modifying other features of their models to suit the gender of the rider.
This stategy would seem to make admirable common sense, as the manufacturers can keep their manufacture simple and profit from economies of scale as far as purchases are concerned. It also can help us to make sense of their otherwise quite complicated ranges. Model names, numbers and specifications are difficult enough to understand at times
So the key features that differ between the two versions generally are:-
The frame geometry is perhaps the most apparent area of difference, visually at least. The long dresses that made a step-through frame indispensable in years gone by have possibly long gone - but such a feature is yet widespread. It may not be so pronounced, but a lower, more sloping top tube is clearly popular.A more padded saddle with more width is generally fitted. Theres no getting round the fact that its the region where we have major differences As leisure use is the main aim of these bikes, it's essential that comfort is given the proper priority.The handlebar is another area of difference - given a bit more shape and often a bit wider as well.
Mens and womens versions within the same range are often of different colours, although thats only aesthetic naturally. You're not likely to find the womens version in pretty pink for instance - perish the thought.
You'll see that different producers will approach the issue in different ways:-
Some, like Specialized, have introduced women-specific range names. It's usually the case that every member of these ranges has a matching model in the corresponding mens range. Hence the Ariel has its analogous range, the Crosstrail - bikes that will appeal primarily to those who enjoy exploring off-road. Likewise, the Vita has its counterpart in the Sirrus range of road-friendly bikes.
An alternative stategy has been taken up by other manufacturers like Scott. Their popular Sportster bikes, recognized by model numbers - 60, 50, 55, 40 etc all have mens and womens variants within the one range.
Some womens bikes have no mens opposite number - such as the Pashley Princess Sovereign and the Dawes Duchess for example. Although these are probably better described as modern retros rather than hybrids.
So bike manufacturers have realised that cycling is not just for men - in fact it never has been. Just get out there.
by: Stephen Bailey
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