Get on your bike for Ride2Work Day
Women across Australia are being encouraged to leave the car at home and jump on their bike for Bicycle Network’s National Ride2Work Day on Wednesday, 17 October.
An analysis of commuter bike rider count data has found that less than a third of those who ride a bike to work are female and Bicycle Network is committed to increasing female participation across all types of bike riding.
Bicycle Network spokesperson Leyla Asadi said that National Ride2Work Day is the perfect time for people of all ages, genders and backgrounds to jump on a bike and give riding to work a go.
“Riding a bike to work can seem daunting, but it is actually quite easy. You don’t need lycra or a flash new bike to get involved, you just need to feel comfortable,” said Ms Asadi.
“And with thousands of other people taking part in National Ride2Work Day, it will be easy to find a friend or someone you work with that can show you just how convenient and fun riding a bike really is.”
Not only does riding a bike to work mean you avoid the stress of congested roads and busy public transport, it is also an alternative to the gym, saving both time and money.
“A 5km to 10km ride to work can take between 15 and 30 minutes, which is enough to get your daily dose of exercise. You can then forget about waking up early for the gym.” added Ms Asadi.
Free community breakfasts for commuter bike riders are being held in cities and suburbs around the country on National Ride2Work Day, with anyone who pedals encouraged to attend.
Data on women bike riding has come from Bicycle Network’s recently completed gender participation report which looks at the growth and variation of female ridership across Australia.
The Northern Territory has more women riders than anywhere else, with 31.3 per cent of riders being female. This is well above the national average of 23.9 per cent. Victoria and Tasmania also sit above average, with 25 per cent and 24.2 per cent respectively.
More information and registrations for Ride2Work Day can be found at ride2work.com.au, as well as free tips and resources to answer any questions and help you get going on the day.
Riders who register for Ride2Work Day go into a draw to win a $1,000 Flight Centre travel voucher.
