In cycling terms this means women may require different saddles and a different angle of saddle tilt. Furthermore the obvious anatomical differences in this area need appropriate consideration in terms of position and clothing. Women tend to have relatively longer legs in comparison with their height than men, with the thigh often accounting for a greater percentage of leg length. These factors need to be taken into account when setting up a female cyclist s position or ordering a frame. Long thigh bones mean the saddle will need to be further back and the seat angle shallow.
Women also tend to have a shorter reach and weaker upper body than men of a similar height.
As women are naturally more flexible a greater seat to bar height difference can usually be accommodated. Too many women are wrongly advised, purchase too larger frame and compensate by pushing their saddle forward and using a short stem. Thus the handling of the bike and the potential power output are impaired. Women also tend to have smaller feet than men. Very little work has been published on the role of foot size in cycling but it certainly has an effect on rider position.