Cycling inspiration website Gallivant have a mission to get more of us on bikes. There is a definite gender gap when looking at the sport. Curious as to why many women are put off from cycling a survey was conducted to get answers. The plan is to get women into cycling one way or another.
Chris Gomez co-Founder of Gallivant explains.
“We knew through our own conversations with people that there are many women who would secretly like to start cycling. Whether for themselves or for their family, but have been put off. We wanted to find out more so we can help as many people as possible discover life on 2 wheels”.
Surveys show the overwhelming reason why women are put off from cycling is fear of the roads and traffic. With 37% of survey respondents citing this as their answer.
What Can We Do To Help?
46% of people surveyed suggested that more cycle lanes and dedicated cycle paths are in dire need. 38% of people also asked for more female-friendly cycle rides and events.
Get Some Inspiration
Read about other women who have taken to two wheels and find out how they started. Gallivant support InternationElles, a 10-strong team of female cyclists who are taking on a 3-week challenge of cycling the route of the Tour de France a day ahead of the men’s race. Many of these women started cycling seriously later in life.
The Ride
The team of 10 riders will tackle the 3400 km route of the Tour de France a day ahead of the official race from the 5th — 21st July. In the summer of 2015 a unique event called Donnons des Elles au Velo J-1 arrived. Three French women rode one day ahead of the male pro peloton in the most famous bike race in the world.
Their aim – to raise awareness for gender equality in cycling and to campaign for women’s tours to be held alongside the men’s. If you fancy doing some cycling around the countryside, check out exterioraccs.com who offer some great essentials for your car so you can take your bikes anywhere you go.
Buddy Up
Team member Alex Chart explains…
“Growing up I was the only girl on my street on my bike. I’d ride with the boys around the local parks. I never saw any female cyclists on TV or heard about females using the bike to explore new countries. I want to show every child that a bike is for anyone. Be it to cycle to school, or to work, to visit a friend in the next town or to race at the highest levels. Regardless of gender. Regardless of background. Bicycles should to be enjoyed”.
Check out your local cycle routes on Sustrans. There are great safety tips here too: https://www.sustrans.org.uk
Talk to your friends and see who might buddy up with you to start cycling. It’s surprising when you start chatting to others, you find people who are in the same position.
Collaborative Post
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