NewATBikeComute

This is not just a theoretical suggestion; I found a listing for a bike that seems really nice, but it's a women's geometry.

I am looking for a bike for commuting 7 - 10 miles each way, to save wear and tear on my road bike; I want to add fenders and possible a rack; generally want to extend commuting to include rainy days.

The bike is a Specialized Vita Sport 55cm medium, price is $300.

I don't care about riding a women's bike because I'm concerned about any one's comments, just about the fit. It's a bit of a drive just to test out the bike as well.

I am 5-7, about 29" inseam, and generally prefer a slightly relaxed geometry; would even go to a more upright position just for variety's sake.

So my question is, is the difference so much that I shouldn't bother, or is it really all about try it and see?

Edit: bike sold, so discussion would be informational only at this point.

FiftySix

I personally don't know, but there was a recent thread on Specialized Women's bicycles recently that touches on that subject.

https://www.bikeforums.net/general-c...c-designs.html

Kedosto

Shorter top tube for reduced reach (but not always).
Smaller grips for smaller hands (but not always).
Women's specific saddle designs (but not always).
"Girly" colors, sparkles, and/or flowers & butterflies (usually, but not always).

If it fits and you like it... ride it. Simple.


-Kedosto

Darth Lefty 

Depends on the company. Often enough it’s just slightly different stem, bars, saddle, and paint

rumrunn6

reminds me, a few years ago, I bought a used straight bar hybrid from a woman for $50. she was the same height as me exactly, 5' 11 3/4". it was fun riding that bike w/o making any adjustments

chas58

In my (male) experience, the biggest benefit for women (who tend to be shorter) is having a 650b option in smaller sizes. Ya just have to do wonky things with frame design to try to get handling like the standard size if you are working with a small frame and 700c tires.

alan s 

WSD bikes usually have a rear view mirror with lights for applying makeup at lights.

fietsbob

Bring our the tape measure and check. (?)

bbbean 

The engineers argue that there is more individual variation among members of either gender than there is between the genders as a group. If you find a bike that fits and suits your needs, use it.

wipekitty

Last I checked Trek's geometry on road bikes, the WSD and men's/unisex frames were exactly the same. I have not been ambitious enough to check all the other major companies or styles of bikes.

I have three men's bikes and one women's bike that fit well. The main difference (other than differences due to the style of bike) is that the women's bike is, um, pink.

Korina

Yup. That's why I love my 26" wheel commuter/vintage mtb. more than my modern 700c hybrid.

Korina

Hey, my mirror doesn't have lights! What a gyp!

Oh wait, I don't wear makeup. Nevermind!