So… I’m presenting at this Thursdays Pecha Kucha at the Museum of Art. I’m speaking about how critical and vital we as women are, when riding our bicycles. Men, don’t get it twisted, I love that you’re out there but the drastic gender gap with women bicycle riders here in the U.S. is pretty significant. Women create this sense of vibrancy when we’re on the roads looking chic, heading into work or bicycling their kids to school or just running everyday errands. We help reinforce the ‘normalcy’ that the bicycle is.
I read this fantastic article this morning: http://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site/index.php/site/blog/advocates_launch_effort_to_double_number_of_women_and_girls_who_ride_bikes/
I’d love to find time where I can mirror efforts like this here. ’The needs and desires of bicyclists differ by gender.’ Couldn’t agree more. Having more women become LCI’s (I’ll finish mine in April) and then using that knowledge to teach girls in school as well as other women who are interested but may feel a bit intimidated can make all the difference in the world. Knowledge is power. I’m so proud of WobSoCal team! All types of beautiful women making change!
The bicycle is Human Powered transportation. Part of the “normalcy” comes from understanding that a ride from point A to B is not necessarily about doing “a workout” anymore than taking the stairs instead of the elevator might be. Sure it gets your heart beating and you feel alive and good, but no need to get all “kitted out” for the experience. Just ride and smile! It is not always a race… that’s why I like seeing everyone out on their bikes. It is good for community, for the planet, for each of us and builds a sustainable future. Pedal for the moment, that’s where we live!
You couldn’t have said it better! I love just seeing ALL types of people out! We need more of it
Thanks for your response.
I think it would be awesome for someone to start a “Heels on Wheels” ride. A women-only leisurely ride around Columbus, no spandex or those silly reflective glasses, maybe ending somewhere for coffee or a casual drink (say, Cafe Apropos) I think if women see more ladies together on bikes it would become very empowering and inspiring.
Funny you mention this b/c a friend of mine has begun a ‘heels and wheels’ up in Cleveland. When she found my blog, she wanted me to expand it down here. I definitely plan to once weather becomes alot better
I know a lot of folks are ‘fair weathered’ riders. Totally down with HEELS on WHEELS.