Gear up for with Women on Wheels

Women on Wheels

Women across Greater Manchester are being encouraged to get on their bikes next month with series of female-friendly cycling events across the region.

With men currently outnumbering women four to one in the UK for cycling to work, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) with the help of its partners has launched Women on Wheels (WoW) to help narrow the gap.

The month-long celebration of cycling takes place throughout March and includes more than 50 group rides, social gatherings, art workshops and taster sessions for women and girls.

Women’s cycling groups across Greater Manchester will help run the group rides, which range from gentle traffic-free leisure cycles to challenging hill climbs, with something to suit everybody.

There’s also the chance to try out the Manchester Velodrome track, train to become a ‘ride leader’ and learn bike maintenance basics with other women.

Taking place in the same month as International Women’s Day (8 March), WoW aims to change perceptions about cycling and get more women back in the saddle or out on two wheels for the first time.

Helen Ramsden, TfGM’s Head of Active Travel and Travel Choices, said: “Women on Wheels is all about inspiring more women to get out and enjoy all the benefits cycling has to offer, from keeping fit and making new friends to saving money on your daily commute.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or if you haven’t been on a bike since you were young – I’m sure there will be a fun activity that’s right for you.”

She added: “You don’t have to be competitive or spend a fortune to ride a bike – cycling is for everyone and I hope this month of activity will help give more women confidence to enjoy life on two wheels.

“All the events offer an easy way to get on your bike and have some fun.”