Search results for:

Thanks for that cafewanda. I'll check it out. I'm 5' 2" and considering a 650c ss bike if I can get one but my road bike is 700c so that should be fine too. The ratio that works for me is pretty spinny too but kind to my knees.

[FONT=Arial, sans-serif][SIZE=2]Hi. Bumping this thread in the hope that someone can help. I'm seriously considering getting a ss bike after years of dithering because I live in a hilly area. I've worked out a low gearing combination that works for me from experimenting on my road bike. I like the simplicity for commuting and think it will make me fitter.[/SIZE][/FONT]

[FONT=Arial, sans-serif][SIZE=2]The problem is I can't do math and don't really understand this gear ratio business. Working on the basis of the formula of Gear = Wheel × Chainwheel ÷ Sprocket, I'm assuming that if I get the same gear inches from a different chainring and sprocket combination, the ride will still be the same? Is this right? The middle chainring on my bike is 42t and I'm using that but many ss bikes come with a 46t chainring. Sorry if this is a stupid question. I hoped that if I asked in the friendly ladies forum I might not get bollocked. Thanks.[/SIZE][/FONT]

Hi. Just came across this. I'm an LCC member too. My two bits to add to what's been said on safety, numbers etc:

• Somewhere to store bike clobber and get cleaned up at work. Many women aren't necessarily vain but their employers and society dictates that they get dressed and made up for work. I work in jeans most days but it's not an option for many women. I also agree that showers aren't necessary but people who don't cycle don't necessarily know that so maybe some practical points on commuting by the LCC taking into account women's particular needs?

• Promote the fitness benefits. I hadn't really thought about the point made by hoefla about distance and hills but I've just realised that it's true in my experience. Most of my colleagues who don't cycle are surprised by the distance of my commute and the hills involved. It's really not far or a big deal, but if you don't cycle it seems like hard work and arriving all sweaty doesn't appeal. A number of my women friends also say they aren't fit enough. However, some start to think about doing it when I point out that cycling is my only exercise and by working it into my lifestyle I don't spend any extra time or money to get fit (and I eat as much as I like).

Maybe one more thing and just to be clear, this is purely a personal view and may not be the experience of others: I feel that the LCC scares some people off cycling rather than encourages them due to the amount of emphasis it puts on hazards to cyclists, dangerous roads, accidents and cyclists killed. There are lots of accidents on the roads not involving cyclists. Campaigns to raise awareness and to make cycling safe is important and I do my bit to support but many people cycle for the joy of it first and naturally build it into other parts of their life. Perhaps a little more emphasis on that? I was an LCC member for years but let my membership lapse. Just rejoined last year but I've already stopped reading the magazine.