What Is The Difference Between Men And Women Bikes?

So, you’ve probably prepared yourself to get a bike but don’t actually know about what is the difference between men’s and women’s bikes, right?

Don’t panic! It’s a very common issue, and I was also confused before getting the proper knowledge about that.

Indeed, the physical structure of men and women are not alike. So, it’s clear that the frame structure, seat shape, handlebar, and overall outlook will be different too if you compare a women’s bike with a men’s bike, get it?

Well, I can confidently say that you’re very lucky because I’m here to break all the secrets to let you know how you can notice the differences of a bike at first glance.

Stay tuned!

Why Are Males and Females Bikes Different?

It’s a very common question. Unlike women, men usually have wider shoulders, long arms. So, a female can’t get adequate comfort if she uses a male’s bike for riding. This is why the current market offers a lot of bikes designed particularly for a specific gender.

Differences Between Women and Men Bikes

So, without more chit-chat, let me show you the differences between the men’s and women’s bikes. Though a couple of models look almost alike, these are designed for different genders. Let’s get started:

The shape of the Seat

This is one of the most important areas where you’ll have to provide attention while selecting bikes. Around the current market, you’ll get a few brands that offer unisex saddles in order to fit perfectly with both women’s and men’s bikes.

Though it’s comparatively cheaper, it works for those who’re looking for a shorter ride. Consequently, if you’re wondering about riding for hours and hours at a stretch, you’ll have a hard time riding with comfort.

So, I think a woman should always use a bike particularly designed for females. The seat will be a bit wider than usual to suit their sitting bones and pelvis comfortably.

Talking about the men’s bikes, the seat is comparatively narrower and longer.

The difference in Frame Structure

As you know, a male is usually bigger compared to a lady and has long legs and arms. So, it’s natural that the distance between the handlebar and the seat will be a bit bigger on a men’s bike.

On the flip side, a female requires a bike that includes a shorter tube (top) as well as a little distance between the handlebar and seat. It helps a female rider to stay in a comfort zone while riding.

Be sure that you can comfortably hold the handlebar as well as keep your back always in a straight position while riding the bike. In case you bend your spine, you’ll have to deal with back pain or spinal issues.

In general, a men’s bike includes a specific horizontal bar in the frame while a women’s bike is built in diagonal shape for which she can ride smoothly even after putting on long dresses and skirts.

Handlebars

This is another area where you’ll find a minor difference. Basically, the handlebar is designed according to the shoulder width of a person.

Considering the matter, the handlebar of a male’s bike comes in a wider shape that measures around 42 and 44 cm (wide).

When it comes down to the female’s bike, it’s engineered to suit narrower shoulders. So, the measurement should be about 38 and 40 cm (wide).

You’ll also notice that the handle stem (in a male’s bike) is relatively longer to match perfectly with long arms. And unlike the men’s bike, the female’s handlebar stems appear a bit shorter.

Length of the Stem

According to my research, a female cyclist feels very uncomfortable and unsafe while taking a ride with long stems.

A couple of women might get a bike that already equips a longer stem. It’s not an issue at all since anyone can replace it with a shorter stem.

Again, the stem that’s a bit longer makes a woman feel unstable while riding for long. But it won’t create any problems at all if you’re a male rider.

Length of the Crank

The crankset of your bike plays a significant role in improving the pedal’s comfortability and flexibility. Generally, it comes in a variety of lengths depending on the type of bike.

You can measure the length of the crankset from the axle center to the spindle center of the pedal.

Talking about a female’s bike, it’s generally 165 millimeters while the male’s bike is about 170 millimeters long.

Do you know why these are different? Well, it allows both men and women to reach the bottom of their bike’s pedal stroke without much effort.

Space Between Bars to Levers

Speaking of a female’s bikes, it gets curved shifters that you’ll notice around the bar. With its assistance, a woman who has smaller arms can easily handle her bike’s gear levers and brakes.

• Overall Appearance

There is no surprise that you’ll find some differences between male and female bikes in terms of outlook. If you have a better or at least minimal knowledge concerning the different styles of bikes, you can find out the differences all by yourself.

The bike of a woman is equipped with cute colors, aesthetic designs with a comparatively lightweight frame.

On the other side, men’s bikes are mostly included with a masculine structure, making them super-durable and capable of tolerating heavyweights.

• Gripping Area

Generally, the males’ hands are a bit bigger than their counterparts, including their fingers as well. This is the reason why the handle of a men’s bike is often longer and wider. It enables a guy to get a stronger grip so that he can ensure maximum control while riding.

So, Is It a Must to Get a Gender-Specific Bike?

If you, as a woman, want to get the maximum benefit from riding a bicycle, then yes, it’s very important to get a gender-specific bike.

Since there are some differences between the male and female bikes, a woman cyclist won’t feel that much comfort if she drives a bicycle designed particularly for guys.

Listen, you can adjust every single bike, whether you’re a male or a female. But the flexibility, performance, and convenience will definitely decrease if you don’t prioritize the gender-specific bikes, bear in mind!

A Couple of Things to Keep in Mind Before You Start Cycling

Doesn’t matter whether you’re a grown-up adult or just a kid, it’s essential to consider a couple of things before you start to learn cycling.

So, come with me, and let’s get familiar with the things that you should keep in mind to make your ride safer, comfortable, and even better.

• Pick Up a Safe Place

Yep, the place you’re going to choose to learn cycling should be safer and out of crowds. I don’t think you want to put yourself in danger while riding on a road that’s loaded with traffic. But if you still want, then you can go and play with fire!

So, I’d suggest selecting a place that’s equipped with shorter grasses. Though it’ll be a bit tricky to drive, the chances of getting hurt will be almost zero if you accidentally fall.

Also, remember that the road should be wider

• Choose the Right Clothes

No matter you’re a male or female, my personal suggestion is to put on comfortable clothes, especially if you’re riding for the first time.

If you’re a guy, stay away from wearing shorts; why? You’ll most likely end up having a ‘boo-boo’ if you accidentally fall from your bike.

Joggers and closed-toe shoes might be your go-to choice when you’re preparing to learn cycling.

Be sure to avoid loose trousers and baggy t-shirts.

• Put on Safety Equipment (It’s a MUST!)

I don’t think you should’ve to be a beginner to wear safety gear before you start cycling. Whether you’re a fresher or a professional cyclist, it’s always safe to put on the necessary gears.

In that case, ensure to spend some cash on a piece of helmet, elbow and knee pads, etc. These things can protect you from getting minor to major injuries.

• Adjust the Seat

Before you begin cycling, be sure you’ve adjusted the saddle’s height properly. That should be in the lower position if you’re very new in the world of cycling. Once you become a skilled rider, it’ll be as easy as pie to ride the bike even after increasing the height of the seat.

• Check the Brakes and Gears

I won’t advise you to change the gears if you’re a new rider. It’s safe and even better to begin riding with the first gear. Keep in mind, safety is more important than speed!

Full Face vs. Half Face Helmet – Which One Is the Best for Cycling?

So, you have a personal bike but confused about picking up a particular helmet between the full-face and open-face (half-face), right?

Well, let me explain which one is ideal for you.

Full-Face Helmet

As the name suggests, a full-face helmet is designed to cover your entire face from head to chin in order to make sure of maximum protection, especially when you’re involved in hardcore mountain biking. It lets you keep your full face safe and out of danger even if you accidentally fall to the ground while riding.

But wearing a full-face isn’t always necessary, yep. If you’re an average person like me who uses a bike just for spending pastime or moving from one place to another, putting on a full-face helmet isn’t a must.

Besides, when it comes to commuting, I think an open-face helmet will be more than enough to keep you protected from minor to major injuries.

Advantages

• Full-face ensures full protection
• Protects you against bad weather conditions
• Offers better insulation

Disadvantages

• Costly
• Not that comfortable for some users

Compatibility: Ideal for both men and women

Half-Face Helmet

Indeed, an open-face (half-face) helmet is unable to cover your entire face; however, it’s much efficient for those who’re just using a bike for casual riding or commuting.

So, if you’re not involved in mounting biking or road cycling, the half-face helmet is here to fill your cup. Unlike the full-face helmet, it’s very comfortable to put on, and you can get this one without breaking your bank (though some models cost a small fortune!)

Advantages

• Lightweight and comparatively cheaper
• Ideal for the summer season
• Comfortable than the full-face helmets

Disadvantages

• Unable to protect your whole face
• Not that stylish

Compatibility: Suits both men and women

Wrapping Up!

I guess now you know what is the difference between men’s and women’s bikes. Without a doubt, having gender-specific bikes come in handy for all passionate cyclist. So, it’s a wise decision to get a bike, depending on your gender.

Yep, it’s true that you can get yourself any random bike if you choose to. However, getting something that’s made for you and you only? Oh boy, that’s something you don’t want to miss.

MORE: The Benefits of Cycling