Mountain biking 101: How to get women into the sport

August 20, 8:29 AMMichigan Mountain Biking ExaminerDiane Ursu

Guys love their bikes.  They love to ride their bikes.  They know that mountain biking is a fun, healthy activity that reduces stress levels and simply brings a smile to one’s face.  It is fun.  The guys want to share that experience with their significant others, but the question remains:  how do you get women into the sport?

Women like to do things with their guys.  They also do not want to hold them back or get in the way.  This is one of the most common reasons women cite for not riding with their guys.  Many women, like men, do not really want to be nitpicked or told what to do all of the time.  For whatever reason, many people do not want to be taught by their significant others.  This article will not address the reason why, but will tell you how to work around it.

It can be a slippery slope, but there are some general guidelines you can follow to get your girl into the sport.

1. Set her up with a comfortable bike.  If the bike is awkward and does not fit, she will not be able to enjoy the ride to the full experience, and probably will feel much less comfortable on descents and climbs.  
2. Help her choose the right clothing.  Comfortable clothing is a must if a woman is going to enjoy her ride.  The clothing must not be an issue if she lacks confidence with how she looks.  Of course, a nice compliment from her guy does not hurt.
3. Do not give her pointers unless she asks, at least for the first ride.  She needs to simply ride, get her bearings, and simply find joy in the activity.  When she feels more confident on the bike, she may ask you questions, or she may look for answers in books and magazines.  You need to respect her choice of information sources.
4. Let her lead.  If she is in front, she sets the pace.  This keeps her from riding beyond her ability and feeling slow. 
5. Do not ride her rear tire.  Give her some room.  Leave two or three bike lengths between your bike and hers.  The closer you get to her bike, the more pressure she will feel to go faster because she will feel like she is holding you up.
6. After a week or two, take her on some group rides with other beginners and women.  These people will be her source of advice. 

Eventually, she may become your best riding partner.  To truly ride like a girl often means fast and aggressive.  Some guys find that their girls become faster than them.  They are pretty cool with that because they know that other guys wish they had a girl that mountain biked.

• Team Estrogen Forum - a forum for women about cycling, including mountain biking
• Michigan Mountain Biking Examiner - provides tips and information about mountain biking in Michigan