While the gear may not look too different, women’s mountain bikes do have some major differences from the ones they make for men.
Anything related to mountain bikes can and often is designed just for women. Glove and shoe sizes are just the most obvious examples. But while many women can ride a standard mountain bike, this core element often changes its image for the female cyclist as well.
Women cyclists often have as much stamina and skill as any man. But, on average, men have more upper body strength and larger thighs. As a result, bikes are sometimes shortened in various ways.
A women’s mountain bike is made from lighter materials to keep weight to a minimum. The frame’s ground clearance is slightly lower to account for its shorter average height. The larger 29er wheels that men sometimes prefer are rarer on women’s mountain bikes. Head angles tend to be more acute to accommodate shorter arms and torsos.
The seat can undergo a transformation. Women’s pelvic bones are wider, so the saddle will widen to compensate. Butterfly seats (a triangular design) are much more commonly found on a women’s mountain bike than a men’s. Gel packs are most common on women’s bike seats to accommodate sharp ‘seat points’.
Even the cuffs can be tailored for women. With (again, on average) smaller hands, a smaller diameter grip is helpful. Special winged grips on the ends increase the amount of control and require less wrist and finger strength to produce the necessary results.
Hydration systems can also be geared specifically towards a woman’s needs. The amount and type of fluid intake for them is somewhat different. Both sexes need a replacement of water and minerals during the trip, but the amount of potassium, sugar and more is modified to meet their specific needs. Smaller diameter bottles are also an option.
Women have slightly different internal body temperatures, on average, than men and generate heat at a slower rate. As a result, riding shorts and shirts are created with the two different genders in mind. The location and degree of absorption, the locations of the padding, the degree of movement in the back and more, receive special treatment.
It’s certainly possible for women to ride a man’s mountain bike, use the same seat, wear the same clothes, and more. In fact, since we’re talking about averages, that may be the right decision for a specific woman. But for most, to optimize their ride, it’s best to look for bikes, gear, and clothing with a woman’s attributes on display.