Women's Specific Designs

[Asphaltgirl]

Being on the, ummm, short side (under 5ft), with a short reach, finding a road bike was really tough. I was also moving from mtb to road and wasn't sure if I was going to like roading so my budget was based on the fact, that, if I didn't like it, I'd have no guilt leaving the bike in the garage! I did finally find a WSD that had 90% of what I needed for size and comfort. Still had to make some minor adjustments and, now, it's just about perfect. I wish that I had had more options for a WSD bike when I was looking, but, I guess, women don't ride bikes! Or it's difficult to move them out of a bike shop. Not sure what the male thinking is! When I'm ready to upgrade, I'm pretty sure that I would stay with that kind of design.
~~AG~~

[Irulan]

you dont' specify mountain or road.

Where bike companies get into trouble with WSD is when the marketing and shop guys use it as a fix-all for every female fitting issue. It's great for some gals, perfect for some, but some of us fit better on a regular frame. I find the education component lacking - not everyone understands that WSD is for a female of certain porportions, not just any female. I got really annoyed when I was MTB shopping, and most shops were pushing the WSD bikes. In addition, there is usually less choice for good component packages. You have one or two options, and that's it.

this is off my web page:

It's a great concept, geometry and frames just for women. This concept is for a specific body type: women who have a short torso and long legs. I ride a men's 15" Kona which fits me beautifully. I have a longer torso. Don't get locked into WSD, but go ahead and try it and see if it's right for you. For some women, it's exactly what they need. Try lots of bikes until you feel the one that's right for you. Some things you can change out on your bike are smaller brake levers, shorter cranks, and more narrow handlebars.

If your LBS (Local Bike Shop) is insisting that you try WSD, or only WSD, and treating you in a condescending manner - "hey little lady, we know what you need..." Run, do not walk, to a different shop. You deserve better than that. Try lots of different bikes.