Bike Belles
The Bike Belles Guide for women who want to cycle more
Riding a bike offers women so many benefits, yet Sustrans' research shows that women are much less likely to cycle than men. Sustrans is keen to redress this cycling gender imbalance and is leading the way in encouraging more of you onto your bikes. This essential guide is packed full of ideas, tips and advice to help you enjoy riding your bike. You'll find sections on buying a bike, choosing accessories, how to look good, staying safe, cycling during pregnancy and much more. Containing numerous real-life quotes from women cyclists, it's an invaluable guide for anyone who wants to cycle more. Download the Bike Belles guide (pdf)
Want to know where to cycle?
Request a free information pack to discover great places to cycle near you. Many of the rides are on routes free from traffic, so perfect if you want to build up your confidence in safe surroundings.
Or visit our online mapping to find out where to walk and cycle from your home. Just tap in your postcode and we'll show you local walking and cycling routes as well as bus stops, train stations and connections to local destinations such as shops, schools and sports facilities.
Shop with us
Visit our online shop for a great choice of maps, guides, cycling accessories and clothing, including a range of items specifically for women.
Kids love cycling too
Children love bikes and love to ride. Pick up useful tips and advice about how to make cycling fun for all the family.
- Download Cycling with children booklet (pdf)
Getting more women cycling
When research carried out by Sustrans in early 2009 found that 79 per cent of British women never cycle at all, we embarked on a year of activities to raise awareness of the issues and encourage more women into the saddle. Activities included:
- Providing advice and information through the Bike Belles website about everything from how to start cycling, to where to go, to what to wear
- Hosting a women's panel to encourage discussion and the sharing of ideas and experiences
- Asking 600 women to 'mystery shop' their local bike store and feeding back the results to the bike trade
- Running a petition calling on UK governments to prioritise the creation of safer cycling. Signed by 9,000 people and backed by organisations including Mind, the National Federation of Women's Institutes and the Townswomen's Guild, the petition was presented to transport ministers in England, Scotland and Wales in January 2010.
To find out more about our work during 2009 to get more women cycling email info@sustrans.org.uk