That was an interesting read, thank you.

I wouldn't be cycling if it weren't for being made redundant whilst on maternity leave, so I've only ever cycled within the constraints of parenting. It is wonderful as she gets older and I get more opportunities to cycle on my own and also that she's starting to get into her own little bike too.

The retail thing is interesting. Bikes are a fairly significant investment, even at the entry level, and I can see that women would be put off if they were sold an inappropriate bike for their needs, or if they encountered a sales environment that was intimidating in one way or another. When I took my first bike in for something or other the bike shop owner said "ooh, you've been riding this!" He couldn't sell me a plain and simple water bottle either, just an over-logo'd sports drink mixer thing. He still looks stunned every time I go into the shop with my helmet. I go somewhere else now, that is far more supportive and helpful.