Women's vs. men's geometry; how different
#1
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Women's vs. men's geometry; how different
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.
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.
Last edited by NewATBikeComute; 06-16-19 at 08:11 AM.
#2
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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
https://www.bikeforums.net/general-c...c-designs.html
#3
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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
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
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#4
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Depends on the company. Often enough it’s just slightly different stem, bars, saddle, and paint
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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
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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.
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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
https://www.bikeforums.net/general-c...c-designs.html
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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.
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.
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Yup. That's why I love my 26" wheel commuter/vintage mtb. more than my modern 700c hybrid.
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