At Up-Cycled U CIC, our goal is to ensure that every donated bike we refurbish is a great fit for its new owner. When you fill out our bike request form, you may notice that we ask for your sex at birth. We understand that this question might seem unusual, but it plays an important role in making sure that the bike we provide is comfortable, efficient, and safe for you to ride.

Why Does Sex at Birth Matter for Bike Fit?

Male and female bodies have different physical proportions, which can impact how a bike fits and how comfortable it feels over long periods of use. While cycling doesn’t require world-class athleticism, a poor bike fit can lead to discomfort, strain, or even injury. To minimize these risks, we take your body proportions into account when selecting a bike for you.

Key Differences in Bike Fit

Here are some of the key factors we consider when matching you with a bike:

1. Saddle Shape: Women generally have wider sit bones than men, so a wider saddle is often more comfortable for female riders. Men’s saddles tend to be narrower to suit their pelvic structure.
2. Top Tube Length and Handlebar Reach: Men typically have a longer torso compared to women of the same inside leg length. As a result, bikes designed for men have a longer top tube, which positions the handlebars farther from the seat. For female riders, a shorter reach helps maintain a more comfortable posture.
3. Handlebar Width: Women generally have narrower shoulders than men, so a narrower handlebar provides better control and comfort. Men’s handlebars are often wider to match their shoulder width.
4. Brake Lever Reach: Some female riders have smaller hands, so we may need to adjust the brake levers to ensure they are within easy reach, improving safety and control.
5. Crank Length and Pedal Positioning: Bikes designed for women sometimes feature slightly shorter crank arms and different pedal spacing to accommodate differences in leg structure and biomechanics.