Women get behind bars: Cycling trend booms globally

Women are getting on their bikes, with a recent study showing a huge increase in the use of bicycles globally for women.

Lead by Intrepid Travel, the study reveals a whopping 294 per cent boost year-on-year in females looking to explore a new city on two-wheels.

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Females also now make up 56 per cent of the total travellers on cycling itineraries.

The travel company has saw an increase of 287 per cent in cycling adventures in the last 12 months and is now offering six cycling-specific itineraries in five countries in 2016 to 27 itineraries in 28 countries in 2018.

Showing that cycling is for all ages, the small-group adventure travel company has also seen an increase in trips across age ranges with those aged 30-50 years old up 299 per cent and the over 50 set up 338 per cent.

To meet this demand, Intrepid is offering new cycling tours in Iran, Bali, the Baltics, Jordan, the French Alps and Peru including the chance to ride through the Sacred Valley and visit Machu Picchu.

Frank Cheshire, Intrepid Travel’s Cycling Brand & Product Manager said, “The architecture, history and scenery of Iran are amazing but being on a bike is the perfect way to break down cultural and communication barriers.

“A cyclist in Iran is viewed as a friend, not a tourist nor a threat. Having the privilege to ride through a country as misunderstood as Iran is a truly memorable experience.”

Historically, the most popular cycling destination has been Vietnam for its combination of diverse cycling, friendly people, amazing food and warm weather.

Europe has a well-established love of cycling and Provence and Tuscany have traditionally been cycling hot spots for travellers.

With Cuba changing rapidly, cycling is also a popular way to explore smaller places and meet locals.

Intrepid attributes the rising trend to the fact cycling tours have become more affordable and the design of cycling itineraries has allowed various fitness levels to participate.

For instance, the majority of Intrepid cycling tours have a support vehicle that cyclists can use to rest for an hour or a day. Some even have an e-bike option for those worried about their fitness.

As part of its commitment to responsible and sustainable travel, Intrepid carbon offsets travel for its travellers as well as donating a portion of each cycling trip booked to Bicycles For Humanity.

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