where do you live?:
Newport, RI

how would you classify your riding (commuting, leisure, competitive):
commuting, fitness, and leisure

how long have you been riding a bike in the way that you do now? did you pick it up again after years of not riding?:
I started riding 4-5 years ago. I was never seriously into riding before. Owned a bike, but only rode during summer vacations.

what type of bike(s) do you have?:
I have 2 road bikes.

do you notice more females on bikes in recent years than before?:
Yes, I notice them more now that I am into riding, but I'm not sure whether there are more riding or not. Whenever any road bike goes by, I perk up.

do you notice more focus on females who bike in the media recently?:
Yes, I notice there are a few tv commercials that show women on road bikes. There's a car ad (Volvo I think) that shows a woman tackling a huge climb, with her family cheering her on, and offering support when she flats. Haven't noticed much in print, like stories about women riders or such.

do you think there are female specific concerns in cycling? what would they be? (buying appropriate bike/equipment, stigma, safety):
Saddles are a big concern. Comfort. We've had threads about feeling nervous about riding alone on some rodes, carrying weapons, so I'd say safety is an issue.

general comments and ideas:
I get the sense that there's a large group of us who are over 30 who have taken up the sport after years of never being on a bike. It will be interesting to see how we age on the bike. In senior years, what types of bikes will we be riding? Will I still be able to ride my road bike in 30 years? I hope so.