What Women Want

As “an ‘indicator species’ for bike-friendly cities” – women being more risk averse than men – perhaps planners should consider what women find important.

Until women feel it is safe and easy to jump on a bike and head through town, the North American ratio of men: women cyclists (now 2:1), isn’t going to inch towards Europe’s ratio (1:1) anytime soon. As the lack of women riders generally indicates relative safety, this is a big part of the reason why North American statistics for trips by bicycle are also so poor compared to those of Europe. Less than 2% of trips are by bicycle in North America, while many European cities are well into double digits.

Have a look at this article from Scientific American.

Thanks to a feed via Momentum Magazine for sourcing this article.

1. Yvette says:

   October 22, 2009 at 10:01 am

   Could you do a survey? I have access to some women’s groups if you need them. Great idea to get input. And great for women to have a Strida bike. I love your concept at savedbybikes, and I love my Strida. I actually feel safer being able to speed along than just walking…
2. Melissa says:

   October 22, 2009 at 12:54 pm

   I am(mostly)good with my daily ride. I know where I am going and how to behave. Toronto has a long way to go on bike lanes.

   What’s with 3 major thoroughfares into downtown: King, Queen, and Dundas, none with a bike lane?

   Message to Taxis: give us a little room on your right
3. Ula says:

   October 26, 2009 at 9:01 pm

   I feel safer on my Strida than I do walking! It’s a long way to the market to get my deep discounts, but my Strida makes it faster and safer!