More women are discovering the joys of bike riding every day. It’s so great to see ladies of all ages, sizes, shapes, and abilities enjoying this great sport.
Women riders of all ages enjoy riding on the Bike Va tour.
I’ve been a rider for over 20 years and spend a lot of time getting new riders into the sport, helping women overcome the common fears and things that intimidate us. That experience is one of the things that makes me love Bike Virginia. I’ve been Executive Director for 6 years of the tour. Each year I see so many women smiling, laughing, and enjoying the event whether traveling alone or in groups.
Here’s what some of our lady riders have to say:
Gayle, long time Bike Va Tour rider: One of the great things about Bike Virginia is that you never have to ride alone. So, if you are a woman and concerned about being left behind, not being able to keep up, or just feel like doing a slower pace, there is always someone around. This allows you to feel safe while cycling. At the other end of the spectrum, if you feel like really hammering, there is always someone to do that with too!
Christy, Bike Virginia participant and volunteer Board Member: I have met lifelong friends on cycling adventures with my girlfriends! We ALWAYS have each other’s backs and are aware of everyone’s locations, abilities on any given day, and food preferences!! And always great tips on where to get cycling gear (full disclosure: I am a Terry skort hoarder) and conversation about many common interests.
Thanh, on her first time ride with Bike Va: I rode Bike Virginia in 2011 and it was a blast. At that time in my life I had not participated in many bicycling events and had only done events which were single days and less than 40 miles. I was originally going to ride Bike Virginia with a friend, but she was unable to come on the ride with me. I had the choice of bailing on the event or riding on my own. I decided to ride on my own and can say that I never felt alone. I ended up meeting others while riding or when we went out in the evenings who I did not know before the event, who happened to be on the way to the same restaurant or biking at a similar pace I was. As with all other cycling events I’ve participated in now (which are non-competitive events), I find cyclists at these events to be friendly and very helpful. Strangers would ask if you needed help changing a tire, fixing a chain, and and strangers would cheer you on and encourage you, you as you would do for them too, while you climbed up that big hill that never seemed to end. Bike Virginia was a lot of fun.
Jarla, repeat rider that volunteers too: As a medium to slow rider, I especially like that BVA’s bike tours are non competitive. Just get out and ride. I always come along someone who’s riding at my pace and is good company. The camaraderie keeps me going. Women are willing to share their training tips. I get lots of good ideas from talking to other women at the rest stops, in the shower line, etc. Everyone is very supportive.
Safety for Women Camping and Biking
Women who come riding on the tour often say they feel safe. It’s a fun environment of camaraderie, where you’ll be camping in an open space with lots of other riders. Our staff and volunteers help take care of all your needs when you are at headquarters and on the route. If you prefer hotel accommodations you can also take our shuttle buses and lodge with other riders so you’ll never be far from people enjoying the tour.
Women Cyclist- Biking Pace
There’s so many riders on Bike Virginia that you’re sure to meet other people that ride your pace. If you prefer to ride alone there’s plenty of space for that too. It’s nice to know though that there are other people looking out for you all along the route. If you’ve never ridden on a bike tour before we can show you the ropes.
Women Biking Together: Make New Friends
It’s a great time to make new friends who love the sport too. Share your stories, learn great tips, or just enjoy the company of all the Bike Virginia family. You’ll enjoy seeing many of them year after year.
A Great Bike Tour for Any Woman Rider
Woman rider enjoying a nice cruise on Bike Virginia 2012.
I know that as a woman rider heading out on the road can be intimidating. We strive to take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy in an environment where you can shine…or cruise along and smell the roses.
You don’t have to be one of the guys on the tour, we have designated showers for you, women’s bike jerseys and routes you’re sure to love.
Come alone or with friends. You can even sign up for a single day if you’d like to come check out the event.