One more "why women don't cycle" article

[PamNY]

I go all kinds of places when I'm cycling. It would never cross my mind to worry about sweat or less-than-perfect hair in a store.

An experience like Crankin describes -- someone exhibiting fright because of sweat? -- is close to incomprehensible to me.

New York is not at all like people think. Maybe in some environments -- very conservative business or very high-end boutiques -- entering the building in cycling attire might be an issue, but in general it wouldn't be. If anybody reacted, it would be a tourist.

If I cycled to business appointments hair would be problem. It would be hard to make sweaty hair look professional. This is less of an issue for men because their hair is usually shorter. I also think the planning of clothing and hygiene supplies that Crankin mentioned would be an issue.

Another point about NYC: subway stations are a steam bath during a heat wave. Except for helmet hair, you would arrive at your destination less sweaty if you traveled by bike. And remember -- you WALK to the subway station, so more sweat.