 Cycling is one of the most enjoyable and fun ways to get fit, get places and spend time with your family and friends
Traditionally the cycling sector has not been so good in catering for the needs of women but things are changing as more and more women take up cycling.
The Bicycle Industry through the Cycling Promotion Fund has supported a range of projects and initiatives to promote and encourage cycling for women including the Revolutions for Women research project undertaken by Deakin University.
Research findings have been instrumental in developing a women's cycling website providing information, tips and opportunities for discussion to enable women to draw on the experience of other women.
How to use gears effectively
Gears help you to ride further and faster with less effort. Low gears enable you to spin the pedals easily. They are useful when you're pedalling uphill or for taking off from traffic lights. The very lowest gears, called 'granny gears', help you get up steeper hills.
Higher gears feel harder to push against when you pedal. Once you start to get up some speed, you'll need to change to a higher gear. That way you can increase the resistance that you are pedalling against, so you can go even faster.
For more information on gears click here for a learners guide to using gears from the women's cycling website.
Some tips on braking
It is important to use both front and rear brakes when stopping and also to keep your centre of gravity low by moving your weight back when possible. Apply the brakes before a corner, using your back brakes more than your front brakes, and lean in to the corner slightly.
Riding in traffic
When riding in traffic remember to ride at least a metre from the kerb or parked cars, you are more visable and are able to avoid debris and broken glass. For more tips on cycling in traffic click here. The City Rider Guide that includes tips on riding at night, in wet weather and through roundabouts can be downloaded here.
Finding someone to ride with
Seeking someone to ride with at your own level? Why not join the discussion list on the women's cycling website or look up a club or bicycle user group in your area here.
Did you know that air pressure in your tyres has a considerable impact on your performance?
Check the air pressure in your tyres regularly, recommended pressures are printed on the sidewalls. While your looking at your wheels, check the quick release lever is firmly closed or the wheel bolts are correctly tightened with the correct spanner.
Learning cycling skills takes time and can be improved through regular riding and through coaching and training sessions
Check the section on people to ride with on this website which provides you with information on clubs and bicycle user groups. Some offer training sessions others are happy to provide you with tips.
Does a bicycle need maintenance?
A well-maintained bicycle operates smoothly, is safer, more reliable and more enjoyable to ride. Servicing and repairing your bicycle can be inexpensive compared to looking after a car. By doing some regular maintenance you can reduce the need for future repairs. All bikes should be serviced by an experienced bicycle mechanic at least once a year, more frequently if you ride regularly.
Pip's cycling program
This link will provide you with some practical tips for a cycling program to get you started and to maintain your fitness. Pip is a busy mum and TV presenter and enjoys an active and healthy lifestyle.
Interested in more information about cycling in your state, such as places to ride, people to ride with, road rules, books to read? We have developed fact sheets for each state so you can spend less time searching for information and more time cycling:
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Get Into Cycling 