I've ridden my bike to work on and off. There's an art to wearing a skirt on a bicycle, and obviously heels won't do.
Wearing sweatpants and carrying good clothing in a knapsack is dicey especially if it behooves one to walk into one's place of business looking reasonably decent.
I think it's probably as simple as that.
Wearing sweatpants and carrying good clothing in a knapsack is dicey especially if it behooves one to walk into one's place of business looking reasonably decent.
I think it's probably as simple as that.
1
One suggestion that would help Citi Bike recruit: NYC should place bike racks on buses. It's done around the country - around the world. Bike racks would encourage cyclists, who don't like to bike ride on busy, dangerous streets to take from the busy streets in NYC to the backroads which are less travelled. Bike racks on buses would also generate more revenue for our transit system since more people would ride public transit.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
2
As a woman who cycled around the City at a time when no one had even conceived of helmets for cyclists, I say - I don't know if they make cycling safer or more dangerous. I mean - Isn't your head more likely to be severed from your neck with a helmet?
1
Maybe another comment like this isn't really needed, but just in case anyone's tallying them up: Bicycling in NYC will be scary and dangerous for people of all genders and ages unless and until the city consistently enforces the rules of the road, both for drivers and cyclists. And motor vehicles are only half the problem. Many cyclists seem to be unaware that the Vehicle and Traffic Law applies to them too. They whizz by at excessive speed; ride against traffic (and seem unaware that there is directional traffic IN THE BIKE LANES as well as on the roadways); fail to even slow down, let alone stop, at red lights; and weave in and out between cars, endangering everyone. I'm all in favor of Citibike, and in fact have been a member since its inception; but for now, I'm walking or taking the subway.
1
I am an older female and joined the first year. I ride carefully and have not felt threatened or pressured by other faster more dangerous riders, they can ride around me if they want to go faster. I was worried when I started that the traffic would be too much for me but I pleasantly surprised at generally how easy that part has been. Even going at a slower speed than most I still get to work in the same time and sometimes faster than if I took the subway. I did have to change my purse to something more bike-friendly. I don't exert myself vigorously so I am not sweaty when I get to where I am going. I don't understand what the issues are with costs, a monthly MTA pass is $116 last time I looked. The first year I rode, I figured out that I paid for my membership in a month and a half. I could go on and on with all the pluses of Citibike. All I can say is it makes the start and the end of my work day pure joy.
My only wish is for more bike lanes in midtown.
My only wish is for more bike lanes in midtown.
3
Today in The Times, I read “A Mission for Citi Bike: Recruiting More Female Cyclists” By Emma G. Fitzsimmons. This article was about how the popular Citi Bikes aren’t appealing to everyone, especially women for numerous reasons. Some include the unsafe roads, hygiene issues, uncomfortable seats, and the neglect for having seats for infants. According to the article, “Today, women take about a quarter of all trips by Citi Bike riders and make up just under a third of its members.” Citi Bike wants to change it so there is a more diverse community of Citi Bike riders. To do that, they have been hosting “Women Cycling Events” to help raise awareness. Then, “In June, the company introduced a newly designed bike that has a different seat and kickstand and feels lighter, which may appeal to women and less bulky riders.” Now all riders can be more comfortable riding on the Citi Bikes. Also, female riders have been giving tips to each other about how staying clean while riding the bikes, like taking it easy for a few blocks before you reach your destination. That will make sure they are clean and hygienic. I feel that more women will use Citi Bikes more because of these changes. They will feel safe and confident on the busy streets of New York City. The reason I chose this article was because I have always seen the Citi Bikes all over the streets of New York City and I was curious about them.
Not sure if anyone remembers this, but when the advertising campaign promoting Citi bike first came out they made a series of posters demonstrating common biking safety mistakes and what NOT to do on a Citi bike- All featuring women as the problematic riders. I wondered at the time about this marketing decision and found myself feeling a bit under-confident after seeing the ads, though I had initially looked forwards to trying it.
Here's an idea for you- if you want a particular demographic to use your service, try NOT singling them out as incompetent in your ad campaign!
Here's an idea for you- if you want a particular demographic to use your service, try NOT singling them out as incompetent in your ad campaign!
I won't ride in the city without a helmet, but don't want to carry mine around. NYC should install inexpensive helmet rental kiosks at all Citi Bike stations, like Boston has recently done.
Let me say what no one wants to hear: NYC is not Amsterdam and never will be and therefore riding a bike here is ALWAYS going to be inherently pretty dangerous here.
Men typically take more risks than women, so the gender disparity in Citibike usage doesn't surprise me. I bet that overall in NYC, whether private bike or Citibike, a study would find that more men ride bikes.
Women are less likely to subject themselves to danger, including possibly being maimed or even killed. Then there's arriving at work sweaty - or dragging an extra outfit WITH you on the bike. Add in the usual harassment, etc. and you can see why many women will not take part!
Men typically take more risks than women, so the gender disparity in Citibike usage doesn't surprise me. I bet that overall in NYC, whether private bike or Citibike, a study would find that more men ride bikes.
Women are less likely to subject themselves to danger, including possibly being maimed or even killed. Then there's arriving at work sweaty - or dragging an extra outfit WITH you on the bike. Add in the usual harassment, etc. and you can see why many women will not take part!
2
Seriously? NYC wants gender 'equal-ness' in signups to ride in the Citi Bike program?!! Why and who cares? How is this a mission?
How about letting individuals decide whether they want to ride a bike or not; without any social gender analysis or studies?
How about letting individuals decide whether they want to ride a bike or not; without any social gender analysis or studies?
5
I'm a female bike commuter and it's very clear that far fewer women bike than men. I'm fortunate to spend most of my commute on the Hudson River Greenway. That said, if you want more female riders, citibike should focus on getting more designated bike lanes in the city. And I don't just mean lanes with painted bike lines (cars park in them all the time), but with a lane divider like on Columbus Avenue. NYC has come along away but if we want to make it truly biker friendly we need safe bike-only places to ride.
I don't get this. It's a bike-rental program, not some super duper sociological equalizer slated to fix all the societal ills of New York. I couldn't care less about any male-female disparity in ridership, let alone the race and income issues the story hints at. If women don't want to ride let them not. Or do something innovative, like designing side-saddle bikes, painting the bikes pink or offering any would-be lady rider a free sex change with a monthly rental program. All of which are as silly as obsessing of the "gender gap." Maybe sometimes a bicycle is . . . just a bicycle, right?
9
Indeed. It's rough out there riding with unconscious or aggressive maniacs behind the wheel of tons of steel. It might be that women simply don't fit into this aggressive physical scenario. What's so wrong with women's desire to be safe? Why try to persuade them it's all pretty and nice with celebrity PR? How manipulative and disgusting. Nothing is going to make it "safe." These are NY city streets. Put simply: It's risking your life.
Add to that this idea about not wanting to get sweaty before work and you have a losing battle.
Add to that this idea about not wanting to get sweaty before work and you have a losing battle.
As some have noted below, would really like to see much more emphasis and funding on improving subway and bus public transportation and preserving mass stransit fares - and not worry about Citibike demographics.
Also, at least in Manhattan, most cyclists seem to disregard pedestrians - cycling through red lights and going the wrong way. Cyclists even block MTA buses!
Also, at least in Manhattan, most cyclists seem to disregard pedestrians - cycling through red lights and going the wrong way. Cyclists even block MTA buses!
2
Does this article say anything more than women tend to be more risk averse than men, and that they have greater child care responsibility?
2
The Citibikes are too large for me as a small woman - even with the seat lowered all the way, I can't get my feet down to stop at a light. If they were smaller/more appropriate for women's stature, I would ride.
Well, at the same time, they're not ideal for tall men. Judging from my wife, who's 5'4", I could see how maybe at 5'1" and less they'd be too big. However, in actuality, your foot should not be able to be fully on the ground while seated, but just a tiptoe, so you're also likely putting your seat too low from proper biking.
1
Suggestion: Move uptown as has been promised since the bikes were introduced. I have been a member of citibikes since launch because I believe in the system. I live in the E. 60s and work in the W. 60s. Citibikes WOULD be my best option, if stations were above 60th street. Instead, stations were populated downtown first, where streets are closer together and it's much easier to get across town. I renewed my membership in year two because there were (more) promises of new uptown stations. That still hasn't happened. And yet membership prices continue to increase. ALSO: Weekend trip length for daily riders should be increased to an hour.
2
Please look at the male nepotism within the offices of motivate. You got Dan Doctoroff's son and former Citibike General Manager who put Citibike into almost bankruptcy, Justin Ginsburg.
I have a helmet, I don't mind being sweaty, and I'm not afraid of traffic (although we need more protected bike lanes & educated car drivers, for sure).
$149 is too expensive. That's why I won't be re-upping my membership.
$149 is too expensive. That's why I won't be re-upping my membership.
After reading this article and some of the comments, i've concluded that this was a really stupid story. I'm sorry, but this was just ?? why ?? What does it matter how many women are using CitiBike? How about this -- get Citibank to make a deposit into my checking account every time I use it?
Biking in NYC is nothing short of dangerous. I am personally aquainted with a woman whose father was killed (he was a skilled bicyclist) by a bus while riding; and another, a dear friend who was sent about 4 feet into the air when a car door opened in front of him as he coasted down a major thoroughfare in the bike lane.
So, women -- stay off citibikes. they're cautious, and rightly so.
Biking in NYC is nothing short of dangerous. I am personally aquainted with a woman whose father was killed (he was a skilled bicyclist) by a bus while riding; and another, a dear friend who was sent about 4 feet into the air when a car door opened in front of him as he coasted down a major thoroughfare in the bike lane.
So, women -- stay off citibikes. they're cautious, and rightly so.
1
I love Citibike! Riding a bike to do the errands is fun! I just wish there were bikes in Brooklyn in Red Hook and around Prospect Park. (57 year old female)
1
I ride all the time...to work, to drinks, to dinner.
Tips for the ladies:
-just try it! take note of bike lanes before your first ride
-wear bike shorts underneath dresses and skirts (they are cheap and you can't see them when you're off the bike, also fit easily in most handbags)
-layer up! wear a tank for the trip and put your top layer in the basket area
-you can bike in heels, flats, and platforms...clogs maybe not so much
Tips for the ladies:
-just try it! take note of bike lanes before your first ride
-wear bike shorts underneath dresses and skirts (they are cheap and you can't see them when you're off the bike, also fit easily in most handbags)
-layer up! wear a tank for the trip and put your top layer in the basket area
-you can bike in heels, flats, and platforms...clogs maybe not so much
2
Protected cycling lanes, segregated from traffic and free from trucks, taxis, buses, police cars, double-parked cars, pedestrians, strollers, et al.
Protected bike lanes will bring thousands more women... and men... and kids.
Protected bike lanes will bring thousands more women... and men... and kids.
6
Women have kids, and don't feel safe riding with the crazy cab drivers on the roads.
That is why Uber will replace the obsolete taxi business model.
My experience, Uber drivers are worse in regards to cyclists.
1
You couldn't pay me to ride a bike in Manhattan. New Yorkers are not civilized enough and our streets are full of potholes and in terrible shape. I save my biking legs for Europe where cars respect bikers, and the lanes are safe and well marked.
5
Too bad for you!
1
If you listen to some of the reader's, you'd think riding a bike in the city was like surfing a 100 -foot wave. I rode for many years in Manhattan, and it's not as dangerous as it might look. You need to anticipate problems--e.g., doors possibly opening if a vehicle is stopped, vehicles turning into your lane without looking--signal your intentions, use a horn or whistle and lights at night, and don't be in such a rush that you put yourself in harm's way. Safe riding requires a certain degree of aggressiveness so that drivers are clear about what you're doing--consider "taking the lane" instead of riding to close to parked cars or the curb--but too much and you're heading towards a accident or an argument. I didn't ride much with a helmet, but we won't settle that debate here. Let's be careful out there.
2
I would tend to agree that the main issue is the danger or perceived danger of sharing the road with enormous, deadly vehicles traveling at lethal rates of speed, a risk increased by not wearing helmet, along with other reckless cyclists riding aggressively, running lights and going the wrong way. Women in general are more cautious then men. Also, possibly this has to do with how people dress? Many women wear skirts or dresses and high heels when going to work or out for the evening; those clothing articles don't lend themselves to bike riding. Men's work and going out clothing is more functional for bike riding.
3
I'm afraid of the cars and trucks!!
8
I wouldn't call not wearing a bike helmet "risky behavior." There have been over 50 million trips on bike share bikes throughout the country, mostly helmetless, all in traffic-clogged cities. The fatality rate on these bikes? Zero in fifty million. The fatality rate for automobiles is about one in ten million trips. Do you wear a helmet when you drive a car?
2
In a study done in NYC of bicycle user deaths, it found that more than 90 percent were not wearing helmets,and more than 70 percent had head injuries. Wearing a helmet decreases dramatically the risk of serious head injury, Simply put, it is dangerous to ride in city traffic without a helmet, and dangerous in general to ride a bike without a helmet. Even if riding slowly on a protected bike lane, ramming your head into a solid object like a curb, lamppost or tree could injure you or kill you, Anti-helmet zealots are irrational. My father, a veteran city rider, once rode a bike a short distance without a helmet--a truck ran a read light, and hit him. Luckily he survived, but had 70 stitches in his head and a concussion--both would have been avoided if he had worn a helmet.
2
From what I've read over the years, the science is not clear on the efficacy of helmets. In some countries, mandatory helmet use was followed by an increase in fatalities. Where is the science showing that helmets "decreases dramatically the risk of serious head injury"?
I've been an avid biker for decades and you couldn't pay me enough to go without a helmet.
2
Some commenters are claiming that the bikes discriminate against the elderly, but that’s not true.
I’m only 73, so while not really old certainly moving in that direction, and have taken over 1500 citibike trips in last 2 years, and looking forward to riding for another 10 or 20 years.
I encourage everyone in my age cohort to get back on a bike, it’s as much fun now as it was when we were kids. What a relief to wrest some independence from crowded, slow, unpleasant busses and trains, and a big cash saving over the year, too. And every errand, every trip to the store, gets festooned w some ribbons of pleasure.
The one thing that does discriminate against the elderly is the dangers created by careless, speeding, failing-to-yield motor vehicles--especially private garbage trucks, tow trucks, and Access-a-Ride vehicles--all emboldened by the enormous failure of NYPD to enforce the laws against their truly dangerous actions.
Old people are not as agile or resilient as the young. It’s crucial for us that NYC make the streets really safe for cycling, undue the distortions to traffic flows, roadways, and rules that crept in over the past century of unhealthy worship of motor vehicles. We need to get our representatives to reform the laws, and our police to enforce them against the real dangers out there.
I’m only 73, so while not really old certainly moving in that direction, and have taken over 1500 citibike trips in last 2 years, and looking forward to riding for another 10 or 20 years.
I encourage everyone in my age cohort to get back on a bike, it’s as much fun now as it was when we were kids. What a relief to wrest some independence from crowded, slow, unpleasant busses and trains, and a big cash saving over the year, too. And every errand, every trip to the store, gets festooned w some ribbons of pleasure.
The one thing that does discriminate against the elderly is the dangers created by careless, speeding, failing-to-yield motor vehicles--especially private garbage trucks, tow trucks, and Access-a-Ride vehicles--all emboldened by the enormous failure of NYPD to enforce the laws against their truly dangerous actions.
Old people are not as agile or resilient as the young. It’s crucial for us that NYC make the streets really safe for cycling, undue the distortions to traffic flows, roadways, and rules that crept in over the past century of unhealthy worship of motor vehicles. We need to get our representatives to reform the laws, and our police to enforce them against the real dangers out there.
5
Oh, come on ladies, it's not that bad. I'm a fortysomething woman and my mom is a senior citizen and we both love Citibike. My purse fits neatly in the basket and if I need to lug more stuff around, I use a backpack. I don't own a purse so huge it doesn't fit in the front; I often put tote bags and other various satchels in there. It does take a little getting used to, to ride in busy traffic, but you have to study the bike lane maps and stick to bike lanes whenever possible, and use a bit of "defensive cycling." I will say that the Citibikes are quite heavy and cycling a 45-lb bike over 5 miles to work, I ended up getting very sweaty. Aside from the obvious difficulties of trying to get a bike during rush hour. If the bikes were lighter, they wouldn't be as sturdy and probably end up being replaced more often. So now I ride home from work, and ride around the weekends, but I've also memorized the bike lanes and don't let the other cyclists push me around. I don't see this as a gender parity issue. Men are simply more willing to risk their lives on bicycles, whereas I happen to like living. I obey traffic laws, never ride on pavement, never enter the crosswalk, stop at red lights, and generally act like a civilized person on a bicycle, and
One thing that is wonderful about Citibike is that is spares me the aggravation of the subway. I'd rather some quiet time pedalling on a bike than shoved on a subway with endless irritation for 30 minutes or more each morning.
One thing that is wonderful about Citibike is that is spares me the aggravation of the subway. I'd rather some quiet time pedalling on a bike than shoved on a subway with endless irritation for 30 minutes or more each morning.
6
No one should have to use "defensive cycling". I never used defensive cycling when I lived in Switzerland. Ridiculous. We need to have segregated bike lanes, period.
2
You're not in Switzerland anymore.
1
No kidding. Defensive biking is a very smart approach, just as defensive driving is taught to new drivers. Remaining aware of your surroundings, including other traffic, is a habit that can prevent injury or worse. The more NYers using bikes, the safer streets will become. Create demand. In the meantime, be predictable.
As for the suggestion of carrying a change of clothes--oh dear. Women commuting to work carry so much gear as it is, particularly if they visit the green market on the way home. A wardrobe change is not in the cards for most of us. Wipes and powder are ways to cope with NY summers and they serve a bike commute, too. It's doable, and fun.
As for the suggestion of carrying a change of clothes--oh dear. Women commuting to work carry so much gear as it is, particularly if they visit the green market on the way home. A wardrobe change is not in the cards for most of us. Wipes and powder are ways to cope with NY summers and they serve a bike commute, too. It's doable, and fun.
2
The main reason women use citibikes so much less than men do is that NYC has just begun to take the measures needed to make biking on our streets as safe as it should be.
The reforms most urgently needed are to cure the apparent 99+% failure of NYPD to enforce traffic rules against motor vehicles (particularly regarding failure to yield and speeding) and to rewrite our motor vehicle laws so as to hold any driver who harms a cyclist or pedestrian properly liable (starting, for example, by recognizing that any claim to have failed to see the cyclist or pedestrian is evidence of failure to operate motor vehicle with appropriate care).
The reforms most urgently needed are to cure the apparent 99+% failure of NYPD to enforce traffic rules against motor vehicles (particularly regarding failure to yield and speeding) and to rewrite our motor vehicle laws so as to hold any driver who harms a cyclist or pedestrian properly liable (starting, for example, by recognizing that any claim to have failed to see the cyclist or pedestrian is evidence of failure to operate motor vehicle with appropriate care).
3
Let's see, nobody in the photos for the article is wearing a helmet...and the gentleman in the last photo is biking the wrong way (south) on 4th Avenue in Manhattan. Enough said.
6
Why are people so fixated about wearing a helmet? No one does in any other country.
4
the nanny state evolves in different ways in different countries.
3
Safety is first and foremost about protected bike lanes, not helmets. Nobody wears a helmet in Copenhagen or Amsterdam, and yet their death and injury rates are far far lower than New York's. Not surprisingly, more women ride bikes than men in those cities too.
9
It is extremely easy to fall off a bike and hit your head. Head injury is serious business. You're a fool if you don't wear a helmet. There may be plenty of fools around the world but that's no excuse.
1
So, woman aren't using Citibike in 'sufficient' numbers. Why should the rest of us care? This is not a problem seeking a solution; its a choice being made that confounds certain silly would-be social engineers.
6
put a quota on male riders until the desired level of male to females is reached.
" certain silly would-be social engineers. " you have insulted quite a few nyt readers.
" certain silly would-be social engineers. " you have insulted quite a few nyt readers.
1
Another woman here joining the fray to say that it is ABSOLUTELY UNSAFE TO RIDE A BIKE IN NYC. I would love to ride a bike for those middle distances that are too short to justify a subway fare but are more than half an hour to walk. I will do so only if there is a dedicated bike lane, protected from traffic by a cement barrier or lines of parked cars. Making a Citi Bike cuter isn't going to cut it.
Other people have said the bikes need to be adapted for shorter users, have bigger baskets (or bags), and have more flexible pricing. Hear hear, but unless there is a safe bike path, forget it.
NYC was making great strides in creating bike paths. Why has it stopped?
Other people have said the bikes need to be adapted for shorter users, have bigger baskets (or bags), and have more flexible pricing. Hear hear, but unless there is a safe bike path, forget it.
NYC was making great strides in creating bike paths. Why has it stopped?
13
"The bike-sharing service is looking at more than just the safety concerns that seem to nag more at women than men, who insurance actuaries long ago concluded are more likely to engage in risky behavior, such as not wearing a bike helmet." I guess those insurance actuaries don't live in Europe, where not wearing a bike helmet is not considered a risky behavior.
4
How about NOT pushing biking as a transportation alternative? We live in an extremely dense city, yet lanes are taken away from traffic that is necessary for business, public transportation and safety (firetrucks, etc), for bicycles.
Bicycle riders are on the whole, lawless in this city, and have no consequences since they don't have licenses, registration or insurance and can commit driving crimes over and over again with impunity.
Citibike is probably not going to be solvent any time soon and despite it's pleas to women to join, will require public tax dollars to operate, despite the large amount already spent in bike lane infrastructure.
Let's start looking at how we can improve public transportation and pedestrian flow rather than introducing even more bike riders to an already chaotic street scene.
Bicycle riders are on the whole, lawless in this city, and have no consequences since they don't have licenses, registration or insurance and can commit driving crimes over and over again with impunity.
Citibike is probably not going to be solvent any time soon and despite it's pleas to women to join, will require public tax dollars to operate, despite the large amount already spent in bike lane infrastructure.
Let's start looking at how we can improve public transportation and pedestrian flow rather than introducing even more bike riders to an already chaotic street scene.
11
I am hopeful that, in time, our bicycle culture will be more similar to what they have in Paris. There are bicycle lanes crisscrossing the city and many allow bicycles to ride against the flow of traffic to shorten the routes.
The bicycle is seen as just another means of transportation. Elegantly dressed men in jacket and time and fashionably dressed women in business suits, high heels and often times evening gowns ride around the city without any problems.
The traffic in Paris is as crazy as in NYC and yet car drivers are very respectful of bicycles. Pedestrians are also more aware of their presence.
Maniacal cyclists who zoom across intersections against the light, slaloming through pedestrians should be severely fined. However, we should all cut some slack to cyclists who may cross an intersection against the light where there are NO pedestrians crossing and NO cars coming the other way - pedestrians do this all the times; cyclists can do the same in a very respectful way and without endangering anyone's life.
The bicycle is seen as just another means of transportation. Elegantly dressed men in jacket and time and fashionably dressed women in business suits, high heels and often times evening gowns ride around the city without any problems.
The traffic in Paris is as crazy as in NYC and yet car drivers are very respectful of bicycles. Pedestrians are also more aware of their presence.
Maniacal cyclists who zoom across intersections against the light, slaloming through pedestrians should be severely fined. However, we should all cut some slack to cyclists who may cross an intersection against the light where there are NO pedestrians crossing and NO cars coming the other way - pedestrians do this all the times; cyclists can do the same in a very respectful way and without endangering anyone's life.
5
Just advertise Citibike as a vital weight-loss regimen requiring no exacting dieting. It really is, and it'll probably make female membership and use go way up, since women are pressured about their body image non-stop.
2
As a woman, I have been very gung-ho about Citibike. However, a few months ago I didn't strap my purse in well enough into the carrier and my purse fell off and I didn't see it fall. I lost everything...iPhone, iPad, wallet, prescription sunglasses, keys... and have been very skitterish about getting back onto the bike for fear of losing my belongings again. It was a financial blow that will take a bit of time to get over. I signed up with Citibike at the very beginning and my membership is up this month... I don't know if I'm going to renew because I can't afford it now.
6
I can sympathize. When you're cycling it's easy not to notice something fall off the bike.
I am a woman and I ride the Citibike as often as possible; it is daunting riding on 6th and 7th Avenues because the traffic is insane. Of course, there's a bike lane on 6th and as one heads north there are a ton of trucks blocking the bike lane and one has to ride in the street to get around them. This is near the flower district and Macy's.
I use the bell and my voice when necessary to try and alert less than vigilant drivers and pedestrians in order to avoid collisions. I've been hit by a taxi before while biking and so I am hyper-vigilant/aggressive when riding.
Oh and 1st Ave is insane in the AM; I have never seen so many bikers. I wish that Citbike did a better of job of allocating bikes at stations as well. There are tons of bikes at Union Square for example at multiple stations in Unio0n Square but fewer in some other neighborhoods. I don't quite get that. Plus, a lot of the docks are broken when one tries to return a bike. I hate that! Do prefer to bike though rather than take a bus or the subway. Nothing like the wind in your hair.
I use the bell and my voice when necessary to try and alert less than vigilant drivers and pedestrians in order to avoid collisions. I've been hit by a taxi before while biking and so I am hyper-vigilant/aggressive when riding.
Oh and 1st Ave is insane in the AM; I have never seen so many bikers. I wish that Citbike did a better of job of allocating bikes at stations as well. There are tons of bikes at Union Square for example at multiple stations in Unio0n Square but fewer in some other neighborhoods. I don't quite get that. Plus, a lot of the docks are broken when one tries to return a bike. I hate that! Do prefer to bike though rather than take a bus or the subway. Nothing like the wind in your hair.
2
In my experience as a woman who rides a bike to my office job, the only women who worry about riding a bike in a skirt are those who haven't tried it. It's very easy in a work-appropriate skirt (not too short, not too tight) and your risk of flashing anyone is low. (After all, you are sitting on the area you'd most like to keep private!) Maybe I show a little more leg than I'd prefer every once in awhile when a big gust of wind comes along but it's nothing to make a fuss over. Biking in work clothes and/or heels is totally normal in other countries (Denmark, Netherlands, Germany). It only seems strange here because most of us didn't grow up with it. And, on a related point, you don't get very sweaty when you aren't riding fast -- and you really can't ride very fast on these heavy bikes.
5
How about trying to ride bikes in heels? Or backless shoes? Not to mention--where do you place the big tote bags? Men usually either have back packs--which can be strapped to the back, or messenger bags, which can be strapped around the shoulders. And that's on top of the helmet issue, which plays merry havoc with female hair.
Accidents can happen at any time, for any reason, for absolutely no reason. If you ride without a helmet, you are a fool.
Accidents can happen at any time, for any reason, for absolutely no reason. If you ride without a helmet, you are a fool.
Yes, accidents can happen any time. If you walk near traffic without one, you are a fool. If you walk down stairs without one, you are a fool. If you shower without one, you are a fool. If you jog without one, you are a fool. If you drive a car without one, you are a fool. etc. etc. etc.
1
I believe that the biggest factor discouraging most people, not just women, from biking in the city is the lack of an adequate infrastructure for bikes, the absence of which can make biking a truly scary proposition for the average New Yorker. I consider myself an experienced urban cyclist, working part-time as a bike courier (in the past, I've even done many deliveries on Citi Bike!). But there is still that unvoiced but ever-present low-grade stress each time I get on the saddle. There are so many variables to contend with and so many things can go wrong when biking in the city. Protected bike lanes and special traffic lights for bicycles can go a long way to eliminating some of these variables but until then, biking in the city is a battle, with cars, jaywalkers, buses, taxis, delivery trucks, other cyclists. etc. And it is this free-for-all that is largely responsible for the aggressive style of riding in New York City. Sometimes, you literally have to break the law to survive, such as running a red light to get a jump start on the mass of cars behind you waiting to gun their engines or to swerve around the double-parked car a block ahead. These traffic challenges can lend a certain thrill to some cyclists (admittedly, I sometimes can be counted among them), but to most, they are a big barrier to getting on a bicycle and it's not something that the Citi Bike program can solve by itself.
13
Why this continued PUSH for people here in NYC to ride bicycles? Our streets are extremely overcrowded and most are quite irregular in surface. Would only recommend bicycling here for the EXPERIENCED rider with excellent reflexes.
On the other hand, as a working person just trying to get home from an awful day at work was slammed to the pavement by a bicyclist going through a red light. So yeah, why not encourage even MORE bicyclists and increase the already very present stress for us pedestrians?
On the other hand, as a working person just trying to get home from an awful day at work was slammed to the pavement by a bicyclist going through a red light. So yeah, why not encourage even MORE bicyclists and increase the already very present stress for us pedestrians?
10
From the article: "Women make up just under a third of the membership for the New York bike-share program, and persuading more to join is seen as vital to its success."
Women aren't seen as vital to its success, they're seen as a barely-tapped revenue source. Maybe I'm just being super, super cynical, but for some reason, that is the first thing that came to my mind when I read the above statement.
Women aren't seen as vital to its success, they're seen as a barely-tapped revenue source. Maybe I'm just being super, super cynical, but for some reason, that is the first thing that came to my mind when I read the above statement.
1
no helmet, really?
after an accident has anyone ever said "wow, i'm glad i wasn't wearing a helmet?"
after an accident has anyone ever said "wow, i'm glad i wasn't wearing a helmet?"
1
I rode Spain's equivalent of a Citi bike in Seville, and it was a great experience. There are bike lanes and paths that make it super safe (and fun!) to do so there. The traffic here is insane and most drivers have no regard for the rules of the road/safety. I barely feel safe in a car, let alone a bike. It's just not worth the risk of having my brain smashed, like that bike helmet PSA with the cantaloupe from many years ago..
5
The bicycle share program in Paris is quite good too.
I haven't tried Citibike yet, though I do cycle a lot. A major problem is harassment, same problem as walking or living or breathing if you're a woman. I had to completely change my bike routes, the clothes I wear and the time of day I go cycling because each ride brought a barrage of honking horns and screaming idjits. Also, men wear pants and flat shoes that are relatively comfortable to wear cycling to work, while women wear skirts, dresses and heels, meaning they have to somehow carry all that stuff around with them on the bike and change when they get to work. If the basket is insufficient they wind up with a sweaty backpack weighing them down. Plus all the aggressive men on bikes, potholes, crazy drivers, etc. (I did cycle in Manhattan for a bit, on a folding bike). Making the city safer for women...that's a big, big obstacle.
4
This is connecting women riders to fashion? That seems arbitrary. Why not look at where Citi Bikes are located - midtown and lower Manhattan. Let's cross reference those locations with the industry in the area which is mainly corporate. Then let's talk about how employees in those industries are mostly male dominated industries and focus on that super important problem.
This is not a "I don't want the wind in my hair issue". And it's offensive that it's written as such. As a female biker in New York City this article is ridiculous.
This is not a "I don't want the wind in my hair issue". And it's offensive that it's written as such. As a female biker in New York City this article is ridiculous.
1
Completely agree with ugh. It os a matter of geography. Put the bikes in safer, tamer neighborhoods in the 60s thru 100s and watch female ridership increase. Hard to bike in our great NYC parks like Riverside, Central when there are ZERO Bikes available there to enjoy,
Why not modify the bikes so older people can ride them ?, How many old guys and gals do you see riding? This whole system reeks of age discrimination
I see lots of grey-haired riders on Citibikes. More or less one myself!
1
I'm a regular Citi Bike rider and love it (male, age 54) - truly one of the great mass transit innovations! But I ride in DC, where it's a snap.
I tried it in NYC, riding from the village heading uptown along 6th Ave (there is probably a better route), and although it was exhilarating to be flying through the streets of the greatest city in the world, it was also extremely stressful. You have to be on guard at all times. Cars, cabs and massive trucks, not to mention hoards of pedestrians!
Don't know if it's possible, but protected bike lanes would go a long way to making it a truly viable way to commute, even in colder weather. The Dutch have figured it out, so can NYC - with a mayor dedicated to it.
I tried it in NYC, riding from the village heading uptown along 6th Ave (there is probably a better route), and although it was exhilarating to be flying through the streets of the greatest city in the world, it was also extremely stressful. You have to be on guard at all times. Cars, cabs and massive trucks, not to mention hoards of pedestrians!
Don't know if it's possible, but protected bike lanes would go a long way to making it a truly viable way to commute, even in colder weather. The Dutch have figured it out, so can NYC - with a mayor dedicated to it.
8
Riding a bike in urban traffic seems dangerous. And sharing bikes with the "general public" seems unhygienic. Apparently women, overall, have some more common sense than men, as far as bike sharing goes.
2
People who prioritize fashion and wind in your hair over safety are making the right decision to forgo Citi Bikes. City biking is far too dangerous to neglect this simple safety measure. Mussed hair will always be overlooked if you arrive to your loved ones (and colleagues) helmeted and intact, (and maybe carrying some dessert).
One more thing: Many people would like to rent these bikes from May to October, for leisure (not commuting) a few times a week, for about an hour or two. For these people the pricing of taking the city bike is like taking a cab. Why a system where people are forced into yearly subscriptions (when the weather is awful from November to end of April?) This doesn't require mobility and defeats the purpose. There should be May to October subscriptions for those who want it, and a very affordable per hour, or per couple of hours, for those who don't want to make a subscription. Make it 1$ per hour, like in Europe, add baskets and Upper East Side docks. Then women riders will flock!
2
Until bike lanes are thoroughly sheltered, I will not be riding in the streets. I have poor peripheral vision and that makes me extremely vulnerable. Also, as a driver, I know how frightened and surprised I've been by bikers disobeying traffic laws, not to mention that so much of driving becomes automatic, and we were never taught to check for bikers when we open a car door. I understand the Dutch teach drivers to open the door with their right hand, forcing them to look behind. What are we doing to build awareness, compliance with rules of the road? And I see no enforcement. Every once in a while a friend gets a tkt for riding on the sidewalk or in the wrong direction on a one-way street, but there's no sustained effort. Neither do I see a sustained effort to enforce the 25mph speed limit. Perhaps the 1300 new cops ...
5
I daresay this article hit on all the points most female cyclists take into consideration before boarding a Citi Bike. First and foremost, the city traffic-- and that includes all the psycho-cyclists who consider their commute as part of the Tour de France! Then, there's the cost factor, which can add up fairly quickly--is this where I bring up 'Income Inequality'? And of course, the cosmetic disadvantage. An 'unkempt'-looking woman is a virtual no-no in almost every office.
While Citi Bike might not be able to control the traffic, and the commute, they most definitely can do something about the cost....Now, will they????
While Citi Bike might not be able to control the traffic, and the commute, they most definitely can do something about the cost....Now, will they????
1
I ride my own bike about 16 miles round trip every day from Brooklyn to Manhattan. Yes, I get sweaty, but I got equally sweaty waiting on a hot train platform and now at least I have a reason for being sweaty. Besides I am in charge of my trip not some train dispatcher. Yes, I am way more frightened of the cyclists who refuse to ride safely than the vehicles.
3
This situation clearly needs a comprehensive protected class evaluation. Who else could be discriminated against by Citi Bike? What's the racial, gender, marital status, age, sexual orientation of the ridership? Disparate impact class action litigation anyone?
2
Philly's bikeshare program, called IndeGo, has had really good numbers since it debuted this year. Part of that is Philadelphia is simply a lot more bikeable than New York with its terrifying one-way avenues of taxis going 45-50 mph. (We tried Citibike one Sunday last spring, and it was one of the scariest experiences of my life!)
But Philly's pricing plan was also a lot smarter -- instead of an annual fee, IndeGo charges $15 a month auto-renewed from a credit card. That way people don't have to fork over $120 just to see if they'll try it. It also allows people to subscribe in the warm months and then cancel in the winter if it gets too cold for them.
Anyway, I'm sure CitiBike will figure it out, New York will someday have actual bike lanes instead of death traps with double-parked delivery trucks every block and cars racing by like it's NASCAR.
But Philly's pricing plan was also a lot smarter -- instead of an annual fee, IndeGo charges $15 a month auto-renewed from a credit card. That way people don't have to fork over $120 just to see if they'll try it. It also allows people to subscribe in the warm months and then cancel in the winter if it gets too cold for them.
Anyway, I'm sure CitiBike will figure it out, New York will someday have actual bike lanes instead of death traps with double-parked delivery trucks every block and cars racing by like it's NASCAR.
10
I live in both Philadelphia in NYC, and there isn't a chance that Philly is more bikeable. The infrastructure is ancient in general, and this applies to biking as well. There are almost no bike lanes. All American cities have a long way to come with bike infrastructure in general.
A flashy ad campaign does nothing to convince women to use Citi Bikes. It's actually offensive that they think we are so shallow. Here are some ideas:
1. If the prohibiting factor is fear = Build more bike lanes and actually protect them vs. letting cars and all manner of delivery trucks park right in the middle of them.
2. If the prohibiting factor is usability = Build a better basket that fit women's handbags, consider more variability in seat height so smaller women can ride comfortably.
3. If the prohibiting factor is sweat/grime = Sorry, can't help you there. You either embrace the sweat or you don't.
I'm a female and a city cyclist but not a Citi Bike user. 1) As an UWS resident an annual membership is pointless at the moment. I've considered joining once the expansion plans are complete but some changes would have to be made to bike design. 2) Those bikes just look unwieldy and hard to manuveaur. Cycling in the city takes quick reflexes. I'm not sure I'd be able to navigate such a behemoth when a pedestrian suddenly bolts into the street or a car driver decides right now is the perfect time to open their door.
1. If the prohibiting factor is fear = Build more bike lanes and actually protect them vs. letting cars and all manner of delivery trucks park right in the middle of them.
2. If the prohibiting factor is usability = Build a better basket that fit women's handbags, consider more variability in seat height so smaller women can ride comfortably.
3. If the prohibiting factor is sweat/grime = Sorry, can't help you there. You either embrace the sweat or you don't.
I'm a female and a city cyclist but not a Citi Bike user. 1) As an UWS resident an annual membership is pointless at the moment. I've considered joining once the expansion plans are complete but some changes would have to be made to bike design. 2) Those bikes just look unwieldy and hard to manuveaur. Cycling in the city takes quick reflexes. I'm not sure I'd be able to navigate such a behemoth when a pedestrian suddenly bolts into the street or a car driver decides right now is the perfect time to open their door.
4
You're right. A bike like a Brompton is great for the city.
Women are sort of the indicator species for the safety of a city's bicycle lanes and paths, and for the overall quality of the cycling experience. Women will ride bicycles in numbers equal to or greater than men when cycling is safe and pleasurable. When I lived in Philadelphia years ago I rarely saw a woman riding a bicycle on the street; the few who did were pretty hard core.
I live in Portland now. The streets are crowded with cyclists, as many women as men. I regularly see women carrying multiple children in the boxes of their "cargo bikes." And they ride fast! The city's bike lanes are mostly safe and well-marked, and they go everywhere. Also Portland cyclists seem to be rather more observant of traffic laws and riding etiquette than those in other cities which shal remain nameless.
I live in Portland now. The streets are crowded with cyclists, as many women as men. I regularly see women carrying multiple children in the boxes of their "cargo bikes." And they ride fast! The city's bike lanes are mostly safe and well-marked, and they go everywhere. Also Portland cyclists seem to be rather more observant of traffic laws and riding etiquette than those in other cities which shal remain nameless.
4
Dollars to donuts the biggest issue is a lack of protected/separated bike lanes, pretty much everywhere with a few exceptions, even in downtown Manhattan. The city needs to just make this happen -- take it out of the hands of each and every Community Board to NIMBY over endlessly -- before most potential riders will feel safe traversing the city on two wheels.
13
Given both the impediments to cyclists in general and the particular hassles directed toward women in public places, it is encouraging that a third of Citi Bike members are women. Hang in there, people, it will get better. And do wear a helmet!
1
I would use Citi Bike all the time to commute to work, but I cannot depend on it for my work commute: In my neighborhood (East Village/LES) there are *rarely, rarely, rarely* available bikes between 9 and 10 am (when I go to work) and *rarely, rarely, rarely* available docks from 6 pm on (when I return home). This is egregious!
6
If you want more women cycling then it is necessary to bury this strange North American fetish with foam cycling hats. Around the world it is probably less than one percent of cyclists who wear these hats and most of them are in the USA. They are uncomfortable, ugly, and awkward - and if you are not racing then they are unnecessary and rather silly.
4
A male colleague of mine also disputed my suggestion to get a helmet.
Then one day a car backed out of a driveway suddenly, directly in front of him. He later told me that his one thought, as he flew over the roof of the car, was that I was right, he should have a helmet.
Then one day a car backed out of a driveway suddenly, directly in front of him. He later told me that his one thought, as he flew over the roof of the car, was that I was right, he should have a helmet.
6
@John Rawlins, Spain
If you had any clue what New York City traffic is like, you would understand why these helmets, though "uncomfortable, ugly, and awkward", can be a real life-saver!!! --- And while one may not necessarily be racing, there are lots of other cyclists who are!!
If you had any clue what New York City traffic is like, you would understand why these helmets, though "uncomfortable, ugly, and awkward", can be a real life-saver!!! --- And while one may not necessarily be racing, there are lots of other cyclists who are!!
4
Are you talking about helmets in general? Because I hate wearing mine. It's hot and the chin strap makes me gag. I hope you're right that they are not necessary except when racing.
It is clear what needs to be done. First, lots of lawsuits and and a DOJ investigation concerning the "inherently discriminatory" policies and practices of the bike system; then a settlement which limits auto and foot traffic in certain areas to make way for the aggrieved bikers. Second, a really expensive subsidy program so that the dispossessed can use the bikes (not just the billionaires). Third, the use of a dome/helmet/air conditioning system for the bikes, which will only raise the cost of each bike to $85,000 (Federal grants will cover 90% of the cost, so that is free money for New Yorkers).
8
As a woman, I wanted to rent the bike and I was shocked and appalled by the price structure. In my native European country, which I left 20 years ago and I still visit every summer, city bikes rent for a flat fee of 1 Euro per hour. They are actually intended to help the citizens of my European capital. The cost of the city bike in NYC is almost as expensive as taking a cab! And the annual subscription thing and various fees is preposterously intricate. This is why at any given hour most of these bikes lay unused. In Europe there is often a line for them, especially in weekends and evenings. This is not a city initiative designed to help people and traffic, it's an initiative designed to make as much money as possible, just like the rents and everything else. Women make less money than men and are more cost conscious about everything, this is why only a third of them use the bike. I am surprised that the author of the article dismissed these crucial points. The way it is written this article reads like an infomercial for the city bikes in their current pricing form.
13
$150 a year to ride as often as you want is too intricate? As far as "making as much money as possible", bike share like public transportation can never hope to even break even. If it weren't for Citibank sponsoring the system it would have never happened.
1
You are correct. The very American money sickness permeates and corrupts everything it touches.
I used to race bikes in college and on an amateur level afterwards. You wouldn't catch me dead riding a bike in the city. Looks like a good way to die or at the least get seriously injured. Maybe women are smarter then men and that's why they avoid this whole scene. More power to them.
10
How often do we need to keep repeating this? It's the infrastructure, stupid. People do not feel safe biking in New York because the bike lanes are few and far between. The ones that do exist are fading, and most importantly, not protected at all from car traffic. If you want to increase bike ridership overall, you need to make the roads more bike-friendly. Any social science 101 student can regurgitate the age-old empirical trend of men taking more risks than women. Remove the danger from bicycling and you'll eliminate the gender disparity.
29
My thoughts exactly. Riding a bike in NYC is a scary and dangerous experience.
I live in Houston, not NYC, but we have bike sharing programs here as well. Between feeling humiliated by the catcalling I inevitably receive while cycling and the heat I'd rather just drive. Beyond that, the bikes do look rather clunky and heavy compared to normal bicycles.
3
OK, so women are under-represented, which is discriminatory, but what about African-Americans and Hispanics? Are they fulfilling their Citi Bike quotas?
9
Here in the Twin Cities, is the same thing, maybe more so: males vastly out number female bike riders. I estimate it's like 10 to 1.
My own issue is time: as a working parent, I can't afford to take on anything that requires more time and/or constrains my ability to come and go from work, pick up kids and groceries, etc., etc.
My own issue is time: as a working parent, I can't afford to take on anything that requires more time and/or constrains my ability to come and go from work, pick up kids and groceries, etc., etc.
2
Plain and simple: it's still too dangerous to bike in NYC so I prefer my wife not to have a CitiBike membership. There aren't enough bike lanes that are truly isolated from vehicular traffic. Well actually, there aren't enough bike lanes period and some streets, cars fly on (such as 10th Avenue) so even having a bike lane wouldn't help assuage my fears. I only truly feel safe biking along the West Side Highway. That said, my wife used to be a member, but I didn't want her to renew. I'm frankly surprised we don't read about more accidents given how many helmet-less bikers there are (guilty myself).
3
"I'm frankly surprised we don't read about more accidents given how many helmet-less bikers there are".
You've answered your own question: people's intuition that riding a Citi Bike is dangerous is just plain wrong. After well over 15 million trips no one has died on a Citi Bike and there have only been a handful of injuries.
You've answered your own question: people's intuition that riding a Citi Bike is dangerous is just plain wrong. After well over 15 million trips no one has died on a Citi Bike and there have only been a handful of injuries.
I am a female, and an avid cyclist. When they expand to the Upper West Side, I will happily hop on a Citi Bike!
5
Auto traffic, and the fear of getting hit, are factors keeping many people off bikes. These are rational reactions. Not knowing what to do in a car crash intensifies the fear.
It would help if the city provided information to cyclists (and pedestrians) about how to respond if you are in, or witness, a car crash. What most people don't know is that you are entitled to have your medical bills paid under the NYS No-Fault insurance law -- regardless of fault or state of residence by either party. This not-for-profit Web site explains:
http://NycCarAccident.net
I believe this knowledge would give many people more confidence in negotiating the streets and handling a crash if it occurs. It sure helped me.
It would help if the city provided information to cyclists (and pedestrians) about how to respond if you are in, or witness, a car crash. What most people don't know is that you are entitled to have your medical bills paid under the NYS No-Fault insurance law -- regardless of fault or state of residence by either party. This not-for-profit Web site explains:
http://NycCarAccident.net
I believe this knowledge would give many people more confidence in negotiating the streets and handling a crash if it occurs. It sure helped me.
3
I’m a regular Citi Bike rider, and, to me, bike share represents the most efficient -- and invigorating -- means of traveling around town and getting things done in a busy day. I wish this and other benefits of bicycling in the city would be marketed more effectively as part of a larger lifestyle message. It’s true that studies indicate that lack of safe places to ride is a key barrier to attracting more women to cycling, and there’s no double of the need to keep pressure on to build more (and interconnected) bike lanes. But as long we continue to focus on negatives rather than on more effectively communicating the positives of bicycling for women, we’re just spinning our wheels.
3
There was an article in the Guardian last month about the hazards faced by female bicyclists:
Female cyclists bear brunt of bad driving and harassment, study finds
http://gu.com/p/49j95/sbl
Female cyclists bear brunt of bad driving and harassment, study finds
http://gu.com/p/49j95/sbl
5
Dear Citibike Riders:
PLEASE REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING:
Stay off sidewalks! PLEASE!
Stop BEFORE a crosswalk when the light is against you.
STOP FOR RED LIGHTS.
Please. Citibike riders are a menace. And this comes from a biker in NYC for 30 years.
PLEASE REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING:
Stay off sidewalks! PLEASE!
Stop BEFORE a crosswalk when the light is against you.
STOP FOR RED LIGHTS.
Please. Citibike riders are a menace. And this comes from a biker in NYC for 30 years.
19
They should have a free month of riding Citi Bikes in the fall. Those souls who are on the fence could try out riding with no financial risk. More women will ride and more women will see other women riders and think it may be OK to ride too. Someone will need to develop and manufacture a handbag-helmet, a handbag that easily converts into a helmet so that leaving home with your helmet is a no-brainer. This is not an impossible task. The conversion of American cities into bike riding centers is not far off.
2
Why women won't ride bikes to work:
1) Unsafe (see many comments, below)
2) Incompatible with any traditional female working attire (aka skirts)
3) Looking like a fool in a bike helmet (not exactly an Easter bonnet)
1) Unsafe (see many comments, below)
2) Incompatible with any traditional female working attire (aka skirts)
3) Looking like a fool in a bike helmet (not exactly an Easter bonnet)
3
The main reason is the lack of protected bike lanes.
You definitely can ride a citibike in a skirt -- no high bar.
As for looking like a fool in a helmet, actually, many women think you look like a fool if you're not wearing a helmet.
You definitely can ride a citibike in a skirt -- no high bar.
As for looking like a fool in a helmet, actually, many women think you look like a fool if you're not wearing a helmet.
3
In football, at least they give you a helmet.
1
Citi Bikes are the heaviest clunkiest ugliest slap of advertising that I wouldn't be caught dead on. I am a bicyclist and would prefer to walk and take the train or bus during my regular work days in Manhattan than jump on one of Citi Bike's uncomfortable torture devices. Make a sleek and lightweight bike share bike without a bank logo on it and I may consider joining up. I find nothing appealing about it and I am a pro-bike person.
3
They have to be built like tanks to survive endless abuse and they have logos on them because NYC refuses to subsidize them, as they do with trains and buses.
5
One reason - Uberpool - why on earth would I bike in the hot sun risking life and limb when I could daydream in an air-conditioned car shared with hipsters?
4
Why does there have to be sex equity in everything? If citibike is being used, but used less by females, does this make the project any less worthy? Maybe women just don't like biking in busy traffic. Maybe they are less inclined to show up to work sweaty with their hair a mess.
5
Citibike member here since the beginning, and also a dude. This past week I reclaimed my super user status and biked from Brooklyn into Manhattan and vice versa. During the early morning rush there are so many cyclists, much more than I recall from this time last year. There were so many of us using the Manhattan Bridge and the approach lanes that I actually felt like I was in rush hour traffic. About half of my fellow cyclists on my morning commute are women, which is nothing short of awesome. However, most of these women had their own bikes. Though my experience is purely anecdotal, I hope that the ladies, and even the fellas, keep on pedaling be in on a Citibike or one of their own.
5
I am a female user and absolutely love citibike. i use it all the time. The one complaint I do have for NY version of bikes is the lack of a basket. the front space is clearly not designed for women's bags. It would be a lot better with a basket rather than just a slot that doesn't fit a lot of women's bags.
28
I lost my purse from the carrier area... which now makes me leery of getting back on the bike. The lack of basket is a huge mistake and fear for me now.
1
It can't be denied - riding a bike is NYC is definitely far from safe. And I can't imagine any way that could change, barring an enormous effort on the city's part to reform motor traffic use. And we all know that will never happen. Meanwhile, a few of us continue to use a healthier and cleaner way to get around.
7
I can't tell you how many times I've narrowly missed being flattened by bicyclists riding on the sidewalks. A friend of mine was actually run down by someone riding a bike on the sidewalk and as a result permanently lost his sense of smell. Cyclists on sidewalks are a real danger, especially those who ride rashly, and most of them do.
There must be stricter enforcement of bicycle traffic rules. Otherwise it is the pedestrians more than the cyclists that are in danger from traffic.
There must be stricter enforcement of bicycle traffic rules. Otherwise it is the pedestrians more than the cyclists that are in danger from traffic.
14
Pedestrians walk against the light into bike lanes without so much as a glance, so perhaps we need stricter enforcement of pedestrian traffic rules?
1
I was knocked over by a messenger on a bike while I was crossing at the corner in the crosswalk, with the light in my favor. While I lay on the pavement yelling at him, he paused from his busy busy day to flip the bird at me and ride away. Cyclists by and large do whatever the heck they want. Most of them are a menace.
15
Something very similar happened to me. I was crossing a wide street with the right of way when a messenger came so close I fell back to the ground. Some pedestrians came to my aid. But when I yelled at the cyclist he cursed me out.
I'm a petite, short woman.
I walk a great deal and have had several encounters or close calls like this.
I'm a petite, short woman.
I walk a great deal and have had several encounters or close calls like this.
2
Given all that's happening in this country and the wider world, this does not seem to rise to the level of a "problem." We have far bigger issues to deal with. Including reigning in the bike program's sponsor, Citibank, for all kinds of illegal activities around the world.
3
I bicycled though midtown Manhattan when i was a student in NYC some years back; even without bicycle lanes of any sort, it was the taxis that cut in front to do dropoff and pickups and people opening car doors without looking first. They swipe the cyclist. In addition, I think Citi Bike needs to discuss how to have people who rent their bicycles have HELMETS too. Even the photo with the woman cycling is an indication she is taking a great risk if she ever falls. Concussions and worse, best to have the CITI Bike people bring this up -- prevention is better than a cure, isn'T it?
1
Add some adult tricycles, if there is space. They are more stable.
4
Sometimes, wardrobe choices take precedence over bicycle use.
Before looking to add riders, enforce the dedicated park lanes for pedestrians, riders and cars. I've lived near Prospect Park for over 30 years and, while it's great to see everyone enjoying the park, taking a walk along the park's outer drives feels ceased to be leisurely some time ago. Too many speeding cyclists viewing it as their personal velodrome, veering into the pedestrian lanes, too many clueless pedestrians walking in the bike lanes, people on both sides ignoring directional signage all together (which could be better designed and more prominent). It reached critical mass in the parks long before the advent of Citi Bike. The city needs to manage some of the chaos before encouraging more bikers. Soon, please.
10
My wife is Chinese. Prior to about 10 years ago, there were more bike riders (male and female) in China than the rest of the world combined. Now there are few. The result of a massive middle-class boom in China and the status of owning a vehicle "to be more Western" has made riding a bike in the major cities dangerous.
Here in America, commuting by bike is seen as the next advancement in our story of prosperity. But like many other people noted in the comments, riding a bike in the city is still perceived as dangerous.... very dangerous. Police the bike lanes. Ticket bikers who roll past red lights. Make the bike lane hug the curb, and parked cars as a protection buffer from the traffic like other European cities. In short, fix the perception problem and you'll see more bike commuters, both female and male.
Here in America, commuting by bike is seen as the next advancement in our story of prosperity. But like many other people noted in the comments, riding a bike in the city is still perceived as dangerous.... very dangerous. Police the bike lanes. Ticket bikers who roll past red lights. Make the bike lane hug the curb, and parked cars as a protection buffer from the traffic like other European cities. In short, fix the perception problem and you'll see more bike commuters, both female and male.
10
Why does it matter?
There are real issues, mostly of safety in traffic. But only a "sexist" (I guess that means the NYT editors) would care whether more or fewer women vs. men, or members of someone's favorite ethnic groups vs. nonmembers, ride.
There are real issues, mostly of safety in traffic. But only a "sexist" (I guess that means the NYT editors) would care whether more or fewer women vs. men, or members of someone's favorite ethnic groups vs. nonmembers, ride.
3
To reiterate what has already been said...You don't need to "recruit" female cyclists so much as make biking in NYC a safer experience. Enforce existing laws to protect cyclists -- add laws that need to be added to do the rest. There's an open culture of lethal and near-lethal disregard for cyclists among car drivers.
15
Riding without a helmet in NYC traffic is a serious mistake.
7
Appealing to the "fashionable" aspect of this is condescending, and the Citibike administration should know better. City roads are inherently dangerous for bicyclists (the bike lane is an utterly ignored painted line, often in the middle of a driving lane, that is disdained by citizen and law enforcement alike), and to the extent women are declining to ride for safety reasons, they are reasonable to do so. Sweatiness wouldn't be such an issue if we didn't have to fight to survive in traffic. This year's farcical attempt at replicating Vision Zero was depressing - so far, it presents no value other than as self-satire on the part of a governance structure either unwilling or unable to do anything other than lower the already symbolic speed limit by 5 mph. Citibike may work as a lifestyle decision for those (like myself) who are looking for some exhilaration in their daily comute, but as a practical matter, cycling in NYC remains an activity for the preternaturally aggressive and overconfident.
10
Wow, Citi...Karlie Kloss and Dicaprio's girlfriend will entice female riders? Maybe recruiting some of the city's real female roadies, like those who race the CRCA races, or maybe some from the tri clubs, would be a more effective local technique? Also, any cars standing in the very unsafe bike lanes should be immediately ticketed. So very dangerous and makes an even avid cyclist dislike riding in this city.
2
The main reason a lot of people (men and women) don't ride bicycles in NYC/USA is that painting a line in the street and calling it a 'bike lane' isn't even close to a necessary infrastructure improvements needed to safely ride bicycles. Without dedicated bike lanes that are completely separate from the street and sidewalk, and have the proper traffic control in place, it's too haphazard to ride. I don't blame women for not riding in NYC. It's dangerous.
33
Yes, I agree. The paint is impressive with wide lines, broken lines, symbols of bicycle riders, distinctly colored patches, but the lanes are right besides moving motor vehicles with no barriers or safe buffer zones to assure that bikes and motor vehicles are safely apart. The physical forces that come into play cannot be affected by paint on a road conveying to people who should be where.
1
I have used Citi Bike, but I think that the roads and bike lanes in NYC are just a little too risky. If the bike lanes were better policed, and taxis weren't allowed to pull into and out of bike lanes, it would be a lot better. The west side highway is nice to ride on, but there aren't enough Citi Bike stations along the way close enough to warrant the time limits on the Citi Bikes.
Additionally, the fees are a bit high, and the bikes are so heavy! Road bikes would be much more efficient.
Additionally, the fees are a bit high, and the bikes are so heavy! Road bikes would be much more efficient.
2
Road bikes would disintegrate on our terrible streets and if $150 a year for unlimited 45 minute rides is seen as 'too high', you are living in the wrong city.
Riding without a helmet anywhere is asking for trouble. (I ride a lot.) I can't imagine doing so in NYC. What are the people in your photos thinking?
2
I'm sorry but bike lanes or no bike lanes, to ride a bike on the streets of NYC requires a certain level of risk. Maybe men are simply more comfortable with that? I (female) entertain no ideas of EVER riding a bike on the streets of NYC...certainly not in Manhattan!
4
The "certain level of risk is more specifically described as "recklessness", I think.
As an avid pedestrian, who lives near two major bike routes, I have come to almost hate almost all cyclists in this city, whether they are male or female, on a citibike or their own. Many have this attitude that bikers trump everyone and everything, cars, trucks and especially pedestrians. They pay no attention to traffic signals or crosswalks and zigzag through traffic. I constantly have to stop for them when I am walking across the street, even when I have the right of way and sometimes even on sidewalks. Citibike riders sometimes seem particularly clueless, so the thought of adding more of them to the mix, male or female, makes me cringe. What is needed in this city is more enforcement of traffic lawsUnless something is done to curb the dangers from errant drivers and cyclists New York will no longer be known as a pedestrian friendly walkable city.
12
Very true
To address safety and fear concerns, protected bike lanes -- separated from traffic and parked cars by curbing -- are essential. Montreal is a classic example where it works well.
If the critical goal is to have absolute usage equality by sex, CitiBike could always adopt the Title IX approach -- refuse to issue memberships to men at any time when less than 50% of memberships have been issued to women, and refuse to allow day-rentals to men at any time when less than 50% of the bikes in use have been taken out by women.
Alternatively, CitiBike could use the Obamacare approach to gender equality, and make all men, including poor men, pay much more for the same (or less) service.
If the critical goal is to have absolute usage equality by sex, CitiBike could always adopt the Title IX approach -- refuse to issue memberships to men at any time when less than 50% of memberships have been issued to women, and refuse to allow day-rentals to men at any time when less than 50% of the bikes in use have been taken out by women.
Alternatively, CitiBike could use the Obamacare approach to gender equality, and make all men, including poor men, pay much more for the same (or less) service.
6
You realize what you said goes against every anti-discrimination law in the country right?
Yes Yes I know since you're a hyper self-aware guy you can say whatever you want, but let's take it down a notch, shall we?
Yes Yes I know since you're a hyper self-aware guy you can say whatever you want, but let's take it down a notch, shall we?
A welcome touch of snark.
Women aren't avid riders of citibike for many of the reasons stated -- sweaty, helmet head, fear of death...
Let's add to the equation -- Where do we store that change of clothes referred to? Yet another bag to schlep -- and no where on the bike to put it; Dangerous to bike in flip flops, as so many women wear these days; equally so for those who wear spike heels; the skirt -- many of us who wear skirts can't ride comfortably (back to the change of clothes); make up -- do you put it on before you commute on the two-wheeler and get all buggy? or, wait till you get to the office, then, applying fresh and compromising your real or theoretical "start" time?
When I worked in the city and commuted from Grand Central, I'd walk to my office (for a while, 59th and lex) and for a while, 14th and 2nd... I'd never have thought to bike it. Still wouldn't. The attendant potential for accidents is too great.
Let's add to the equation -- Where do we store that change of clothes referred to? Yet another bag to schlep -- and no where on the bike to put it; Dangerous to bike in flip flops, as so many women wear these days; equally so for those who wear spike heels; the skirt -- many of us who wear skirts can't ride comfortably (back to the change of clothes); make up -- do you put it on before you commute on the two-wheeler and get all buggy? or, wait till you get to the office, then, applying fresh and compromising your real or theoretical "start" time?
When I worked in the city and commuted from Grand Central, I'd walk to my office (for a while, 59th and lex) and for a while, 14th and 2nd... I'd never have thought to bike it. Still wouldn't. The attendant potential for accidents is too great.
4
Maybe women don't want to ride Citi Bikes - did anyone bother asking them?
6
Why yes, they did. I'd recommend actually reading the article before commenting.
WHAT is being done about the electric MOTORIZED delivery & messenger bikes??
VERY DANGEROUS, ILLEGAL the cops have told me at community board meetings--BUT NO NYPD COP WILL EVER LIFT A HAND TO STOP, SUMMONS, OR SEIZE A BIKE as the sargeant told us the law provides.
The whole bike culture is being allowed to operate outside the law. Thanks Bratton.
VERY DANGEROUS, ILLEGAL the cops have told me at community board meetings--BUT NO NYPD COP WILL EVER LIFT A HAND TO STOP, SUMMONS, OR SEIZE A BIKE as the sargeant told us the law provides.
The whole bike culture is being allowed to operate outside the law. Thanks Bratton.
7
Years ago when I lived on the upper east side, I would ride by $25 Raleigh 3 speed bike to 49th and Park where there was a bike stand with provisions for locking up your bike.
Yes taxi drivers were the worst but not having to wait on a bus or subway was a treat.
Why can't people buy their own bikes now???????
Yes taxi drivers were the worst but not having to wait on a bus or subway was a treat.
Why can't people buy their own bikes now???????
The problem with getting more riders--male or female--seems glaringly, blindingly obvious to me. It's the 30-minute time restriction. That's barely enough time to get anywhere and run an errand. Forget enjoying the bike for some leisure on a weekend. The idea of checking the bike in and checking out another after just 30 minutes just seems like an enormous hassle. So in my opinion, the bikes might as well not even be there.
2
With an annual pass, you get 45 minutes, long enough for most commutes, but you can always re-dock and take the bike out again.
Isn't the time limit 45 minutes for members? And no time limit if you are Leonardo DiCaprio?
If you need more than 30 minutes, it takes all of 15 seconds to hit a docking station to return one bike and immediately take out another.
If we don't want to be sweaty riding to work, or we choose to wear a dress or skirt like many women do in perfect biking weather, that means bring a change of clothes. So, add that to an already large purse and... where do I put it all??
2
In Italy women of all ages, dressed casually and stylishy, ride City Bikes all the time. Che succede con le donne Americane?
3
I only noticed the thousands of Vespas zooming by.
"...Braving city traffic without a helmet seems too risky. But carrying one around all day would be a hassle..."
This is a poor representation of the problem. The traffic is the secondary not prime threat which requires wearing a helmet. The prime reason is that the speeds achieved by this machine means that an impact with the ground can fracture person's skull and can happen faster than a person may be able to act to avoid striking her/his head -- so the helmet protects anyone riding a bike.
This is a poor representation of the problem. The traffic is the secondary not prime threat which requires wearing a helmet. The prime reason is that the speeds achieved by this machine means that an impact with the ground can fracture person's skull and can happen faster than a person may be able to act to avoid striking her/his head -- so the helmet protects anyone riding a bike.
2
"To woo women, Citi Bike is hosting rides with women’s cycling groups and trying to make cycling seem stylish."
Really? If making Citi Bikes seem stylish is their answer, this program is in trouble.
Really? If making Citi Bikes seem stylish is their answer, this program is in trouble.
5
that is turning into such s sexist conversation...I rode my bike in the city for about 15 years (before bike lanes...) and was treated the exact same way as a man, as a biker, which means very poorly. then I got pregnant, rode my bike and stopped - too dangerous... there is a simple issue withe the city bike... they are just simply too big for women, the bikes themselves are heavy, clumsy and not practical at all! They are made to fit an average american man... forget tiny French women like me...it is a physiognomy design issue not a gender issue. I bet small men can't ride them either...
11
I am a small woman and ride Citibike almost every day. They are heavy, but it is a good workout!
Same issue in Phoenix. I don't care about organized social rides with other women - or photo op rides with the Mayor and his motorcade to stop traffic. I care about how to get safely to work, the grocery store or the movie theater. Most women I know who want to use their bicycle to get around are asking for bike lanes (preferably segregated in some way) and bike boxes to facilitate left turns, and enforcement my police of both driver and bicyclists who aren't following the rules of the road. Right now we have a piecemeal system that is inadequate, with lots of stops and starts and not a lot of connection. I don't have a bike share subscription because I have my one of my own bike with me most of the time. But if the goal is to get more women riding their bikes for transportation, get the infrastructure built now and stop the footdragging. We tell you what we need but the response is always inadequate. Silly. Bike infrastructure is pennies when compared to what it costs to build and maintain for cars.
2
When I ride a bike in Manhattan, I ride my own. I was an early adopter of Citibike, but I found that they often weren't available, often not in good working condition, and poorly equipped for carrying anything but the smallest bag. I can spend the equivalent of the annual fee on my own bike's maintenance and equipment and be assured that it's available and in excellent working condition whenever I want it.
2
Except that for people in the city, where do you leave your bike? In your cubicle at work? If you chain it on the street, it is not a matter of if it will get stolen, but when.
The best thing about Citibike is that you dock the bike and walk away.
The best thing about Citibike is that you dock the bike and walk away.
1
Bicycles are not a good alternative form of transportation in any modern city that relies upon motor vehicles and mass transit to function well. They are simply unsuitable and unsafe. I do not think that any responsible person should encourage people to do things which can easily be harmful to themselves or others, so encouraging people to riide bicycles amongst pedestrians or automobiles to me is a fundamentally wrongful behavior. A bicyclist will be seriously injured in any collision with a motor vehicle and the forces exerted by a bicyclist in a collision with a pedestrian will cause injuries up to and including fatalities for the pedestrians. The more people who ride bikes in the unsafe way that it is being promoted in cities across this country means more injuries and deaths. The infrequency of these events so far has given people a false idea of safety, but at some point the number of bicyclists will change this picture.
In addition, it never occurs to bicycle advocates that bicycles are not a good alternative to mass transit for the sake of the environment nor of wise use of limited resources because mixing them with automobiles results in more grid lock and thus more pollution and wasted fuels. The grid lock leads to lost time and opportunities for people, too. In addition, in many jurisdictions bicyclists are allowed to ignore all laws with impunity, meaning running stop signs and lights, and riding anywhere and anyway that they please despite any laws that apply.
In addition, it never occurs to bicycle advocates that bicycles are not a good alternative to mass transit for the sake of the environment nor of wise use of limited resources because mixing them with automobiles results in more grid lock and thus more pollution and wasted fuels. The grid lock leads to lost time and opportunities for people, too. In addition, in many jurisdictions bicyclists are allowed to ignore all laws with impunity, meaning running stop signs and lights, and riding anywhere and anyway that they please despite any laws that apply.
2
City riding usually gets safer as more people ride. To say that cycling is generally unsuitable and unsafe is a very casual observation. Why single out cyclists? Pedestrians are at risk from cars, trucks and automobiles. And what unsafe way of riding is actually being "promoted"?
20 seconds of research revealed that in NYC in 2014 there were 132 pedestrian fatalities and 20 bicyclist fatalities. Considering the amount of people in this City that are walking and biking these numbers are miniscule. How anyone could consider either of these activities "unsafe" is beyond me. Maybe those who find city living so scary should move to the suburbs.
South Florida doesn't seem so different from NYC in this regard. I am an avid bicyclist (recreational) and I notice that men seem to outnumber women on bikes by two or three to one down here. But, I do see large numbers of helmeted women along with men on early weekend-morning bicycle club rides. T
1
There's a really simple solution to the sweatiness issue, dress appropriately for cycling, don't race, coast now and then, and you won't work up such a sweat. More of the fully protected bike lanes need to be installed. With the min-islands at the end of the blocks with trees, they're a great enhancement to the streetscape and they adds greater safety for pedestrian and cyclists.
Adding a realistic basket could help as would a toddler seat/rack in the back, I have the remainder of a Citibike annual membership from someone who moved, it's rarely used I prefer to use my own bicycles because I use it to shop and I have two baskets in the back and a rack. There really needs to be more accommodation for carrying things besides that small slot designed to hold nothing beyond a clutch purse, and women carry far more today, the space provided is too small for the average handbag.
Adding a realistic basket could help as would a toddler seat/rack in the back, I have the remainder of a Citibike annual membership from someone who moved, it's rarely used I prefer to use my own bicycles because I use it to shop and I have two baskets in the back and a rack. There really needs to be more accommodation for carrying things besides that small slot designed to hold nothing beyond a clutch purse, and women carry far more today, the space provided is too small for the average handbag.
1
I would love to see the stats on the economics of men vs women joining. Which gender has better credit or a more steady income so that they continue to pay the user fee? It's no different than a gym membership or a pool membership in the summer. If you know you may only go sporadically, you're not going to commit to the cost of access. Many women tend to make more thoughtful calculated decisions about buying certain fee based services compared to men.
7
How come only men get called out for sexist statements? Yes women making impulse or ill-advised purchases is totally unheard of.
1
Must everything be 50-50? It seems to me that the women in the article have some pretty good reasons why they don't want to ride.
23
If you really want to encourage ridership make dedicated and protected bike lanes through out the city, like the ones on first avenue and Broadway.
The unprotected lanes are cluttered with limos, taxis, pedestrians, double parked cars, hot dog venders, fedex delivery people, etc. making riding difficult and dangerous at best.
The unprotected lanes are cluttered with limos, taxis, pedestrians, double parked cars, hot dog venders, fedex delivery people, etc. making riding difficult and dangerous at best.
33
And yet pedestrians walk out into those protected lanes, against the light, without so much as a glance, as if the bike lane is an extension of the sidewalk.
Truly frightening, as pedestrians have been hit and even killed, when the bike rider had the right of way.
Truly frightening, as pedestrians have been hit and even killed, when the bike rider had the right of way.
1
You forgot to mention joggers and skateboarders as well!
I love the idea of bicyclists in the city for the environment, exercise etc. Unfortunately, many cyclists do not follow the rules of traffic and create a hazardous situation for pedestrians and motorists. I vote to ban cycling until cyclists realize that they must actually stop at red lights, go in the direction of traffic and never ride on the sidewalks.
10
I can't agree with you enough. I'm almost run over daily on my way to work. Not by cars, but by bikers.
Walking is better for you and costs nothing.
8
Cyclists should alert NYC the location of potholes (dial 311). After our last winter many roads were repaved, which is great, but dangerous potholes remain. Also, there are still some old sewer grates that catch bicycle tires that need to be changed.
1
Clearly the same solution used in college sports should apply. Don't spend any more money on bikes for men than is spent on bikes for women, what ever the disparity in interest between the sexes. This means if not many women choose to ride, perhaps eliminate parts on bikes for men to equalize the expense. A good way to do this would be to remove the seats and wheels on bikes for men, bringing their costs more in line with women's costs for biking.
3
Thank you - you have just defined socialism - shared misery for everyone.
In my observations, Citibike usage is in line with overall bike ridership—more men ride than women. I believe the more bike infrastructure we have, the safer it will be and the more people will ride. It would also help if traffic cops took cyclist safety seriously (giving tickets to cars blocking bike lanes, ticketing cars and trucks that cut off and menace cyclists, etc). Right now if a car hits you, it's assumed to be the cyclist's fault unless the driver is drunk, even if they were obviously being reckless. This is virtually unique to NYC law.
4
with the multitude of equality issues out there, this one seems almost inconsequential.
13
The underlying issue isn't equality, its about lack of access to a substantial piece of the market. They need to know why so much of the market has no interest and they have (correctly) identified women as a category with particular reasons to avoid the product.
In my case, it's definitely safety. Until bike lines are physically protected from cars, no way am I riding.
In my case, it's definitely safety. Until bike lines are physically protected from cars, no way am I riding.
Well, thanks very much, Daniel, for presuming to define what is consequential and inconsequential in women's lives.
Citbikes, and the ability to bike safely in NYC on any bicycle are everyone's right.
Citbikes, and the ability to bike safely in NYC on any bicycle are everyone's right.
I have used the Divvy bikes in Chicago, which are similar to the New York Citi Bikes. As I was riding a Divvy bike in Chicago about a year ago, I lost my balance and went down, hitting my head on the street. I was taken to the hospital for treatment for the head injury. Luckily, no major damage, though I do still have a scar above my eye. Though one may fall off any bike, I found the bicycles heavy and difficult to handle. At the time, I was riding my bicycle at home almost daily, so I was very comfortable with bike riding and had not fallen previously. With the Divvy bike, there is no helmet rental included. After renting the bike, one has to ride to the next station in a fixed period of time or pay a penalty. Even though the penalty is small, it creates a sense of hurry for some riders. Additionally, the bikes do not have convenient holders for water bottles, which are a necessity in the summer heat. They have front baskets, but these are not easy to reach while riding. I think riding in the city on a heavy, unwieldy bicycle, without a helmet, racing to the next bike station... just not a good idea overall. I would not choose to do so again.
8
Until a person has actually ridden-(rode?) a bike in NYC, especially Manhattan, either in traffic or not--you can have no idea what an awful rattling and bone jarring business it is! MAny Young men and kids male and female can seem to shake it off, but usually they have more than the crummy 3 speeds .
But regardless of Bike and road quality--this is not an experiment for ladies who also have to think about their handbag, clothes, shopping, shoes and their makeup.
But regardless of Bike and road quality--this is not an experiment for ladies who also have to think about their handbag, clothes, shopping, shoes and their makeup.
5
I am a 'lady', far from young, who thinks about my handbag, clothes, shopping, shoes, and makeup and I ride to work and back every day.
Most of the females I have spoken with about this say they are frightened by the ferocity of traffic.
25
That this article (and many comments) state that women are more timid than men is bizarre.
How about this: *Some* women are more timid than *some* men, while *some* men are more timid than *some* women.
If that is not true in your own life, it is because you have skewed your own curve by only spending time with timid women.
How about this: *Some* women are more timid than *some* men, while *some* men are more timid than *some* women.
If that is not true in your own life, it is because you have skewed your own curve by only spending time with timid women.
How about this: Women are on average more risk adverse than men?
Are there Citi Bike riding tours? Riding with a group and learning some of the routes would be a great way to get people comfortable taking out a bike.
1
So the plan is to convince women that everything they know to be true about cycling-- that it can be hard, sweaty and dangerous-- is incorrect or irrelevant. And to do this they've placed a bike in some store window, and display pictures of Hollywood actors kissing their girlfriends on bikes. Got it. It's so good to have these articles from time to time explaining female behavior.
46
Some women, like some men, have no problem with 'hard, sweaty and dangerous' or are you saying that women are naturally timid and afraid of a little sweat?
It's not about Citi Bike (of which I am an annual member). It's about riding a bicycle, which means regularly encountering cars and trucks parked in bike lanes, which means swinging out in front of traffic if you want to keep going. It means being on the constant lookout for car doors opening suddenly because many bike lanes are absurdly close to parked vehicles. It means being thrust into traffic when a separate bike lane becomes a "sharrow", for which there are no rules.
I tolerate these constant hassles, but until bike lanes are a completely separate network and the greatest danger for the cyclist is a pothole, a large swath will understandably (and perhaps wisely) never ride in the city.
I tolerate these constant hassles, but until bike lanes are a completely separate network and the greatest danger for the cyclist is a pothole, a large swath will understandably (and perhaps wisely) never ride in the city.
68
This is a silly, poorly researched article. I am a female cyclist who rides through "bustling Midtown Manhattan" twice-a-day, 5 days a week. I commute from the "less chaotic" Lower East Side to Madison Avenue and 52nd Street and I always wear a helmet because I care more about not dying from a head injury than how my hair looks. I've gone to gallery openings, birthday parties, the movies and business events with my helmet proudly hanging from my bag. I was not a cyclist before Citibike debuted, but the exciting freedom of navigating NYC by the sheer strength of my legs and a bike continues to be an irresistible choice. Guess who doesn't like getting sweaty, wearing a helmet, or navigating Midtown traffic? My husband.
59
yes! absolutely! so sexist...
I am curious how is the article poorly researched? According to the article, "Today, women take about a quarter of all trips by Citi Bike riders and make up just under a third of members." which means that women clearly are using the service less than men. Everyone has their own personal experiences, but unless the % of women in NYC is less than 25%, it is clear that women are using the service less than men.
Thank you! Why does promoting women mean infantilizing? When did feminism become about women being treated as delicate flowers? This is a great program and I hope it expands.
To encourage women to ride, just lower the price
for them.
for them.
11
I suspect that they need more riders. I am not sure what gender has to do with it.
37
They do not need more riders, as the biggest problem is getting a bike.
1
You would get it if you were a woman.
My wife won't ride a citibike because it's too heavy and she doesn't feel stable riding it. My informal tallying of women/all bike riders this morning was 14 female/67 all bike riders, just about 21%, so that's spot on to the stat referenced in this article.
1
Add stations to the Upper East Side!
And as a female Citibike rider, I agree there's a fear barrier at first. But I also own a bike, and I'm delighted that Citibikes have made it safer for ALL bikers---drivers can no longer pretend it's a bikers job to stay safe (and blame the bikers when they get hit).
They have to acknowledge the streets are full of cluleless, unhelmeted novice bike riders (often tourists) and either change their own habits or start killing off the revenue stream. Unsurprisingly, they change their habits....
Oh, and regarding freshening up afterwards? Two recommendations: go early, and stop for an iced drink near work in an air-conditioned cafe. 15 minutes and you'll be fresh and dry!
And, never underestimate the power of moist towlettes (my favorite are the witch hazel ones). Gets the grime right off, and kills the bigs that cause the stinkiness.
And as a female Citibike rider, I agree there's a fear barrier at first. But I also own a bike, and I'm delighted that Citibikes have made it safer for ALL bikers---drivers can no longer pretend it's a bikers job to stay safe (and blame the bikers when they get hit).
They have to acknowledge the streets are full of cluleless, unhelmeted novice bike riders (often tourists) and either change their own habits or start killing off the revenue stream. Unsurprisingly, they change their habits....
Oh, and regarding freshening up afterwards? Two recommendations: go early, and stop for an iced drink near work in an air-conditioned cafe. 15 minutes and you'll be fresh and dry!
And, never underestimate the power of moist towlettes (my favorite are the witch hazel ones). Gets the grime right off, and kills the bigs that cause the stinkiness.
24
'...And as a female Citibike rider, I agree there's a fear barrier at first...'
What does that have to do with being female? Are women more cowardly than men? Nonsense.
What does that have to do with being female? Are women more cowardly than men? Nonsense.
6
Is it fear or are women just smarter than men?
No, women are not more cowardly--they are more sensible! They are far less likely to to do stupidly dangerous things, and riding a clunky bike in NYC traffic without a helmet is stupidly dangerous. I use City bikes all the time at work, but I keep a helmet at work.
And let someone invent a collapsible, safe, and reasonably priced helmet, and that problem may be solved.
And let someone invent a collapsible, safe, and reasonably priced helmet, and that problem may be solved.
I am a woman who rides a bike for weekend transportation. I have tried riding to work, but I don't need to add terror to my morning routine. If I had a safe route, with segregated bike lanes, I'd ride seven days a week.
Although I've had a Citibike membership since it started, I will more often use my own bike. Citibikes are heavy, often in only fair shape, often unavailable, and when returning a bike, have yet to find a usable dock on my first try. They would be great for spontaneous use, but I don't carry a helmet with me and I won't ride in rush hour traffic without one.
Although I've had a Citibike membership since it started, I will more often use my own bike. Citibikes are heavy, often in only fair shape, often unavailable, and when returning a bike, have yet to find a usable dock on my first try. They would be great for spontaneous use, but I don't carry a helmet with me and I won't ride in rush hour traffic without one.
20
I rode DC's Captial Bikeshare bikes once or twice before cancelling my membership. As a 5'0" woman, the bikes are simply too big. My feet don't reach the ground when stopped (or slowing down) and it feels very precarious. I've spoken to women several inches taller than me who also said the bikes were just too big for them. These services should consider stocking at least some bikes make for smaller people.
69
Just a tip: If your feet can touch the ground while you're in the saddle, your seat is too low no matter how tall you are. It's a matter of ergonomics. The idea is to dismount when stopped, and then lift yourself back onto the saddle when you take off again, using your dominant foot on the pedal as a step. My GF is 5' too (with very cute but short legs) and she uses Citibike all the time.
3
Agreed. There's a similar program in Boston. At 5'2", even with the seat all the way down, I couldn't use the bike. Given that the average height of women in the USA is about 5'4"-5'5", this is a pretty big oversight.
1
I agree. I'm 5'-2" tall, and the bicycles are too big. The wheels and frames are too big, even if I hassle with lowering the seat and handle bars.
1
As a Citibike user for over a year, I have noticed many improvements - and many continued problems in the system. The software upgrade last spring was a huge improvement. And the more cyclists take to the streets, the more car drivers notice us, and the safer we are. Big win, all round.
That said, some stations run out of bikes early in the morning - when residents pedal off to work. Then, after evening rush hour, there are no parking spots to return a bike. As a resident of the East River Coops, and I see this constantly happen at the Cherry St. station, and imagine it happens elsewhere as well. More parking spots are needed to counter this. But repeated calls and emails to Citibike result only in promises of better "rebalancing" of bikes to prevent this - and pledges are forgotten after a few days. In an area where mass transportation is lacking, the repeated inability to take out or return a bike makes a real difference.
Also, there are major streets and avenues, such as 8th Ave., where the bike lane is by the sidewalk, with cars parking closer to traffic lanes. This protects bikers. Most bike lanes, though, are placed by traffic, while parked cars get the "safer, inside spots." This should not be so hard to change. The safer arrangement takes up no more room than the more dangerous arrangement, and safety is key to getting more riders - including women - out there.
Overall, the system works nicely - but could certainly benefit from some tweaks.
That said, some stations run out of bikes early in the morning - when residents pedal off to work. Then, after evening rush hour, there are no parking spots to return a bike. As a resident of the East River Coops, and I see this constantly happen at the Cherry St. station, and imagine it happens elsewhere as well. More parking spots are needed to counter this. But repeated calls and emails to Citibike result only in promises of better "rebalancing" of bikes to prevent this - and pledges are forgotten after a few days. In an area where mass transportation is lacking, the repeated inability to take out or return a bike makes a real difference.
Also, there are major streets and avenues, such as 8th Ave., where the bike lane is by the sidewalk, with cars parking closer to traffic lanes. This protects bikers. Most bike lanes, though, are placed by traffic, while parked cars get the "safer, inside spots." This should not be so hard to change. The safer arrangement takes up no more room than the more dangerous arrangement, and safety is key to getting more riders - including women - out there.
Overall, the system works nicely - but could certainly benefit from some tweaks.
5
For more ridership, they should continue more aggressively to expand to areas without stations. The entire upper half of manhattan is still not stationed, similarly most of the other boroughs don't have access. If women don't want to ride, you can't force them or change the very nature of riding a bike on a hot day in the city. How about just focusing on recruiting more riders in general, even if they're 79% male.
I'd also be willing to guess a similar percentage of of non-citibike cyclists are women as well, a noticeable minority. For very similar reasons.
I'd also be willing to guess a similar percentage of of non-citibike cyclists are women as well, a noticeable minority. For very similar reasons.
1
I don't think you can have a conversation about why women do or don't ride bicycles without talking about how women are treated and feel being on the streets in general in New York. I love biking but every time I go out–it's an infuriating experience, and a hard way to start my day. As a female bicyclist, you not only have to deal with the usual hollering from men on the street, but you also feel much more vulnerable to the incredibly aggressive traffic culture–where your body is constantly at peril. Then add in the mostly male bicyclists, who tend to break more rules more and put you in harms way, going the wrong way down the bike lane and almost clipping you, or running the lights and jumping in and out of cars. I can't tell you how many times I see a couple biking and watch the man run the red light and the woman sit at it awkwardly, not sure if she should chase after him and put her life at risk. I wish male bikers actually participated in making traffic safer, so we were all safer. I wish the city actually cared enough to enforce traffic rules so that cars had to treat us with the same respect that they treat fellow cars and pedestrians. And I wish I felt like I had the same right to the city streets as men do.
114
So 'The Patriarchy' is the reason women do not ride?
As a female rider, I can attest this city is not for the fearful and timid, on or off a bike, but it is a big country and there are many other pleasant and safe places to live.
As a female rider, I can attest this city is not for the fearful and timid, on or off a bike, but it is a big country and there are many other pleasant and safe places to live.
2
As a male rider who has ridden bicycles for almost 70 years now I feel more endangered by other bicycle riders who are either too clueless or too aggressive than I do by motor vehicles. Where I ride now the 'good ole boys' in their pick-up trucks will, without fail, give me plenty of space and even slow down if necessary.
1
I'm not sure that I see it as a gender issue - as someone who studiously follows all the rules of biking, I notice many women as well as men going the wrong way, running red lights, and worst of all (to me) - riding on sidewalks.
I see bad biking as running across gender lines (just like bad driving). It usually has to do with laziness, fear, and/or overblown self-importance, traits shared by most of our species.
I see bad biking as running across gender lines (just like bad driving). It usually has to do with laziness, fear, and/or overblown self-importance, traits shared by most of our species.
2
Why the Citi Bikes are not in Upper West Side above 60th Street? There are plenty of female riders working in downtown that we will gladly ride to work through the west side Hudson park instead of taking the subway (that is getting from bad to worse)
7
It seems, also, that (most?) women see bikes as a leisurely way to travel and as good exercise. (Most) men see it as a competitive instrument.
15
Cars, bikes, and pedestrians are a bad mix. Bike paths should be isolated and bikers should not be permitted to ride across streets. One east-side and one west-side avenue, and half of every fifth street should be dedicated to bikes and pedestrians.
1
I think women tend to weigh risk more carefully than men. As so many have said here, bike lanes need to be patrolled and enforced and really, really safe. The other issue for women might be vanity. Biking makes you sweat and wearing a helmet ruins your hairdo. But European women bike everywhere and still look fabulous so it's just a new challenge to tackle -- it can be done!
2
It appears to be more of a "category" challenge. Based on a US DOT report, 24% of all bicycle trips are made by women and 76% are made by men. There appears to some alignment here. Is this a non-story?
7
Here's a hint to get more female riders: 1) Invest in less clunky bikes 2) Drop the Big Bank logo 3) Police ALL cyclists more aggressively.
These should make riding safer and more enjoyable in Gotham.
These should make riding safer and more enjoyable in Gotham.
7
Don't you understand that the 'Big Bank Logo" is what pays MOST of the cost of the entire public bike system? No logo and the price to users would triple!
I would love to ride a bike to work in Midtown. But only if I could shower in a nice facility at my office and have a clean, convenient place to change and do my make up and hair. For women who wear pencil skirts and dresses to work, biking is a challenge!
2
Ah ha! So you need to be fashionable. How about wearing nice pants or a loose skirt, keeping your hair short. How much makeup do you wear that you can't do a touch up in the ladies' room? And an antiperspirant should be enough to keep you from smelling.
Maybe you need to worry less about fashion.
Maybe you need to worry less about fashion.
I had a horrendous experience last year with Citibike when I was overcharged and it took six weeks and 11 contacts to get the problem resolved. There's finally a plan for a dock in my neighborhood, but it's not near a subway station, as I expected, but instead a few long blocks away in a park. Not only is the location inconvenient, it's unsafe for women at night. I imagined using a Citibike to travel the last leg of my commute late at night instead of having to wait 30 minutes for a local train.
The issue of the helmet is a problem for me as well. It's not easy to carry around, which rules out spur of the moment trips.
In a society in which women are judged on their appearance far more harshly than men, the concern of some women about getting sweaty or dirty and having no place at work to change or shower is not unreasonable.
Most important, many cyclists still are not following the rules and are creating a dangerous environment for other cyclists and pedestrians alike. I was recently on a walking tour of the city, which involved crossing many bridges. Many cyclists rode without any regard for the safety of others. Almost all were men.
There are many problems to attend to that have nothing to do with women per se.
The issue of the helmet is a problem for me as well. It's not easy to carry around, which rules out spur of the moment trips.
In a society in which women are judged on their appearance far more harshly than men, the concern of some women about getting sweaty or dirty and having no place at work to change or shower is not unreasonable.
Most important, many cyclists still are not following the rules and are creating a dangerous environment for other cyclists and pedestrians alike. I was recently on a walking tour of the city, which involved crossing many bridges. Many cyclists rode without any regard for the safety of others. Almost all were men.
There are many problems to attend to that have nothing to do with women per se.
28
American cyclists don't know bike etiquette--they never warn pedestrians when they are coming up behind them at high speeds. How can we inform them.
5
I don't see the hesitancy to use the Citibikes as gender-based. I am a senior male cyclist who wears a helmet to protect me from a subdural if I fall. As much as I would like cycling during the week in midtown Manhattan I am reluctant to do so, with non-barriered poorly demarcated bike lanes in heavy traffic. I am equally reluctant to ride in Central Park from 59th street to 72nd on the east drive with taxis and limos hurtling by cyclists, pediicycles, joggers and horse-drawn carriages---a pathway that should have been and should be closed to non-emergency motor vehicles at all times, at least from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
5
'...They think the cost — $149 for an annual membership or $9.95 for a day pass — is too steep, especially on top of a subway pass...'
If $149 a year for unlimited 45 minutes rides is seen as 'too steep', then total up your take out coffee bill to put some perspective on it.
I am lucky enough to live less than 1.5 miles from work. As soon as I saw the first Citibike dock near Astor Place, I knew I would rather ride than go down into that hot smelly subway.
I bought a annual pass and have barely used the subway since, riding back and forth to work in almost any weather, including these last two brutal winters. If the bike lanes are clear of snow, I ride, even when the temperature is in the teens, and since I still had trouble finding a bike, I am not the only one. Often the other option is to walk, so which is quicker?
Lessons learned? Hot weather is worse than cold, wear a headband under your helmet in the summer, in the winter, heavy gloves, as your hands will be colder than any other part of your body.
Best of all, you get used to all the traffic, but learn from the bicycle delivery men how to deal with cars and trucks, as they ride all day every day and know the best and safest practices.
My only issue with Citibike is that living on the Eastside I often cannot find a bike...more bikes and better balancing please!
If $149 a year for unlimited 45 minutes rides is seen as 'too steep', then total up your take out coffee bill to put some perspective on it.
I am lucky enough to live less than 1.5 miles from work. As soon as I saw the first Citibike dock near Astor Place, I knew I would rather ride than go down into that hot smelly subway.
I bought a annual pass and have barely used the subway since, riding back and forth to work in almost any weather, including these last two brutal winters. If the bike lanes are clear of snow, I ride, even when the temperature is in the teens, and since I still had trouble finding a bike, I am not the only one. Often the other option is to walk, so which is quicker?
Lessons learned? Hot weather is worse than cold, wear a headband under your helmet in the summer, in the winter, heavy gloves, as your hands will be colder than any other part of your body.
Best of all, you get used to all the traffic, but learn from the bicycle delivery men how to deal with cars and trucks, as they ride all day every day and know the best and safest practices.
My only issue with Citibike is that living on the Eastside I often cannot find a bike...more bikes and better balancing please!
14
Avid citibike rider here myself!
As for winter riding, the reason so many docks are empty is because the company takes a large portion of them in for the season. Not sure if you had troubles last winter, but in the week or two following a snowfall, I often find myself unable to dock on most street-level stations as the plows push (and compact) the snow onto them....that is definitely something that needs to be worked on.
As for winter riding, the reason so many docks are empty is because the company takes a large portion of them in for the season. Not sure if you had troubles last winter, but in the week or two following a snowfall, I often find myself unable to dock on most street-level stations as the plows push (and compact) the snow onto them....that is definitely something that needs to be worked on.
Oh forgot to mention...female here!
This article is full of a lot of nonsense about women and biking. I would love the freedom of being able to ride a bike one-way or both ways to work, depending on weather and more importantly what time I get out of work. It would be great to be able to bike to work in Manhattan in the morning and ride the subway home on the many nights when I work late. Or to bike home when I can. Unfortunately, there are no Citi Bike docking stations near where I live. I don't understand why there are no Citi Bikes in Park Slope, Prospect Heights or Crown Heights. All of these neighborhoods are near Prospect Park which would seem to be prime short term bike ride territory. Also, in many cases it is easier to bike between Brooklyn neighborhoods than to take public transport -- i.e. between Prospect/Crown Heights and Williamsburg. But that's not possible now on Citi Bike, so I take my own. But again, I'd love the flexibility to be able to bike one way.
4
So how dangerous is riding a bike in New York? And, apart from promotion, what's being done to make it actually safer?
The biggest deterrent for me was always the bulkiness of the CitiBike. I always felt unsafe because I felt like I couldn't steer or control it as well as I could my own bike.
Here's a good tip for all novice riders: don't get doored! Assume every parked car you pass is about to open their door and accordingly, leave ample space. Keep a straight line as you bike and the cars behind you will avoid you. As Ms. Juan suggests, be brash. And by the way, guys love seeing women on bikes. So sexy!
3
Because of course, it's all about sex and what we can do to give you a cheap thrill or two, right, Richard?
W84me, you're right and I'm sorry for the offensive remark. Women (and men) should bike because it's good for their health and the environment.
I already lug around a giant purse so how could I possibly manage to get around with that on a bike? Plus, I would need extra supplies if I were to ride a bike. Those little baskets are woefully inadequate. Until someone figures out a way around this problem, I don't see a lot of women using these things.
23
inventory your giant purse. leave half the items at home. put reminder in a small purse. after a day or two you will not miss them
I’m a woman and have ridden a bike my whole life---only mode of transportation for decades. I’ve noted that many women and husbands are decrying “Where do we put these large purses??”
Easy...I QUIT carrying around humongous purses. A small backpack--and I do mean small or a messenger bag whose straps I cross over my back and chest. Cycling also presents a different version of who we are as women. Men don’t carry large purses--so why should we? Leave a bag of makeup at work. You don’t NEED 85% of the “stuff” we end up carrying.
Become a “leaner” machine and quit being a pack mule carrying large saddle bags. Seriously--WHY do we women carry such massive purses?
Lighten up; cycling becomes easier for every pound you drop--whether it’s body mass or cargo. Become an athlete, leave behind the Prada mannequin. Look how good our women’s soccer team looked!
Easy...I QUIT carrying around humongous purses. A small backpack--and I do mean small or a messenger bag whose straps I cross over my back and chest. Cycling also presents a different version of who we are as women. Men don’t carry large purses--so why should we? Leave a bag of makeup at work. You don’t NEED 85% of the “stuff” we end up carrying.
Become a “leaner” machine and quit being a pack mule carrying large saddle bags. Seriously--WHY do we women carry such massive purses?
Lighten up; cycling becomes easier for every pound you drop--whether it’s body mass or cargo. Become an athlete, leave behind the Prada mannequin. Look how good our women’s soccer team looked!
1
If CitiBike was subject to Title IX regulations male riders would be capped at approximately 50% of all riders, regardless of motivation, aptitude or interest. Makes about as much sense for CitiBike as it does for college athletics but there you are.
11
Someone apparently got his football budget cut so that women could actually take part in an athletic activity on an equal basis. We're all so sorry for you.
This program creates hundreds of unskilled, ignorant cyclists who ignore rules of traffic, endanger pedestrians, clog traffic, and take away the ability for people and businesses to conduct commerce via the huge amounts of space being taken up for bike docking that no one is using. These riders are an absolute menace and the program should be disbanded with all money being put into the third-world subway system.
4
The city is filled with millions of unskilled, ignorant pedestrians who ignore rules of traffic, endanger cyclists, clog traffic. These pedestrians are an absolute menace.
We have Divvy Bikes here in Chicago and I have been an annual member since the beginning (1/2 the price of NYC at $75 annually). It cuts my commute the the subway from 10 minutes to 3 and I love the feel of riding. A little practice and choosing a good route are important, too. In NYC and Chicago, we need more protected bike lanes, like Europe. Then women and men would feel more comfortable riding. I think on it's second anniversary DIVVY had logged 3 million rides. Critical mass does build awareness. Give it a try!
I noticed the bikes in the photos did not have any basket or rack to hold personal belongings. Most women carry a tote or hand bag, so not having a way to carry that would put me off from using a community bike.
1
The bikes do have an area at the front with a bungy-like device to hold a purse in place. It works quite well.
@ mkstewart - those slim slots with the overly tight bungee cord are woefully inadequate to carry anything, much less the size of handbags most women I know regularly carry.
I think appealing less to "style" and more to safety and convenience is a sure way to bring in more cyclists in general, but especially women. People who want a stylish ride likely already own a bike; instead make renting one cheaper and easier.
1
I see quite many female riders along the west side bike path (during commute hour). Maybe not equal number as male riders but certainly more than "from time to time". Besides, I don't quite understand the assumption that every activity must be taken up by both gender in equal numbers.
"Women are early indicators of a successful bike system”. If that's the case, Citi bike should focus on addressing the issues raised by women riders that applies to all riders. Not as the title suggested, "recruiting more women".
"Women are early indicators of a successful bike system”. If that's the case, Citi bike should focus on addressing the issues raised by women riders that applies to all riders. Not as the title suggested, "recruiting more women".
2
I was an early CitiBike adopter and didn't renew my membership. I actually really loved riding the bikes and it was often a faster and more direct way to get where I needed to go. That is, if there were bikes at my station, if I could get the bike out of the dock, and if there were available docks where I was headed. The infrastructure and customer service were so poor I couldn't justify renewing--at a 50% increase.
3
I am a female Citibike rider and I LOVE it. But I think part of the backlash is societal. Many of my female friends are very angry about the bike lanes and the fact that there are so many more bikers on the street breaking the law (like the fellow in your photo by the way; I know that corner and he's going the wrong way on a one-way street). They feel like the bikes are a nuisance, so I'd never get them to take a spin with me, which is a shame. That being said, I ride my bike all over downtown and in the areas of town where there are decent bike lanes. We need better bike lanes in midtown. When that happens, I think you'll start seeing more Citibikers of both genders.
52
Cant we sue Citibike on grounds of disparate impact? Women are systemically being excluded!
Would be interesting to know about the actual safety statistics for cyclists in New York City. And if there's been any upswing in accidents and fatalities since the inception of the program. I see too many people of all genders on bicycles without helmets, and they seem to be the clueless ones who don't ride in the bike lanes or will stop to rest in the middle of the street, ride the wrong way and endanger pedestrians, oblivious to everything around them.
Perhaps women are just smarter than men.
Perhaps women are just smarter than men.
1
The cited report has inconsistent annual fee information at launch. Alternatively 99 and 95.
It also incorrectly states that riders spent $95 on an annual membership through Feb 2015 when the fare increase to $149 took effect in November 2014.
Lack of attention to details makes me question the report's validity.
It also incorrectly states that riders spent $95 on an annual membership through Feb 2015 when the fare increase to $149 took effect in November 2014.
Lack of attention to details makes me question the report's validity.
4
This reads like an Onion article. "The Gender Gap in Stamp Collecting: How Should We Fix This Terrible Problem?"
46
More Leonardo DiCaprio stamps?
Someone finally has a reasonable takeaway from this. Who really cares?
1
I would like it if Bikes were expanded to the Upper West Side. Doubt anything will happen with Deblasio.
1
Although helmet head could be a problem for some, riding on the flat streets of Manhattan shouldn't break too much of a sweat if you do some longer, more challenging recreational rides on the weekend.
Although I don't live in NY, I have used the bike share system in Manhattan. The payment system can be a bit intimating the first time or two, as you only have a brief time to figure everything out before it resets. Even as an experienced rider, I did find the streets of mid-town challenging. Most of the close calls I had were with pedestrians who frequently walk in bike lanes to avoid the crowded sidewalks. Delivery truck drivers also block bike paths with their back and forth....cab and limo drivers on the other hand where very deferential, presumably to protect their licenses.
Although I don't live in NY, I have used the bike share system in Manhattan. The payment system can be a bit intimating the first time or two, as you only have a brief time to figure everything out before it resets. Even as an experienced rider, I did find the streets of mid-town challenging. Most of the close calls I had were with pedestrians who frequently walk in bike lanes to avoid the crowded sidewalks. Delivery truck drivers also block bike paths with their back and forth....cab and limo drivers on the other hand where very deferential, presumably to protect their licenses.
First require that cyclists learn the rules of the road and impress on them that these rules apply to them too, then recruit more riders. The last thing we need is more of the clueless and reckless.
3
No. First require that all motorists drive without being distracted; without feeling as if he/she were thE ONLY car on the road; and being completely aware that the roads are for cars, trucks, buses, pedestrians, and cyclists. THEN we'll have more women, who are fundamentally less daring than men to take certain risks.
Funny, that feeling that someone is the only one on the road is exactly what I see with cyclists. Every Single Day. So, NO - get the ones we already have on the street to obey the law. We do not need more clueless and reckless cyclists. We need NONE.
1
Their market research tells them "cute" clothes, lipstick, and style will get me to ride Citi Bike? I'm a founding member who rode on the first day. Glitches like the website not following my direction to "auto renew" my annual membership for two years in a row have caused me to lapse, but that wasn't my intent. But, until there are docking stations on the UES or UWS or Morningside Citi Bike is not offering a service I will use for quick jaunts to commute. Instead, I'll walk.
29
I think women are not riding bicycles in the city because they recognize the danger of riding in traffic. More men ride bicycles because they are reckless and self-entitled; just observe the dangerous maneuvers and bad behavior toward pedestrians. Men are giving biking a bad reputation.
8
Women=Good
Men=Bad
Right.
Men=Bad
Right.
1
Maybe woman are reluctant because they wear skirts. If short, then too revealing. If long, then can get caught or get grease on it.
Like we need more conjecture from men on why women do or don't do certain things?
For once, I would make an "inappropriate" suggestion. Pay attention to the women cyclist cruising by and try to enjoy the "revealing" view allowed by their short skirts? , I guarantee you'll be disappointed.
For once, I would make an "inappropriate" suggestion. Pay attention to the women cyclist cruising by and try to enjoy the "revealing" view allowed by their short skirts? , I guarantee you'll be disappointed.
1
Some more suggestions to get more female riders:
1. Lighter bikes.
2. Add baskets
3. Add toddler seats
4. Come uptown!
1. Lighter bikes.
2. Add baskets
3. Add toddler seats
4. Come uptown!
63
5. Helmets included
This sounds like something out The Onion. In a world of underperforming schools, income inequality, lack of access to quality health care, etc. New York is launching a program to get more women to ride bikes. Wow! Talk about priorities.
6
“And they worry about arriving at work sweaty.”
For years now, I’ve been puzzling over the question whether the time will ever come in this country when women will stop grousing and complaining about their lot in life.
This article answers that question.
It informs us that women will quit complaining when someone invents a way for them to arrive at work looking fresh and pretty after a bike ride in heavy city traffic on a hot summer day.
For years now, I’ve been puzzling over the question whether the time will ever come in this country when women will stop grousing and complaining about their lot in life.
This article answers that question.
It informs us that women will quit complaining when someone invents a way for them to arrive at work looking fresh and pretty after a bike ride in heavy city traffic on a hot summer day.
1
its good for people.
its good for the environment.
just pass a law that reduces
the number of taxis and
subway schedules.
its good for the environment.
just pass a law that reduces
the number of taxis and
subway schedules.
1
There need to be fewer cars. And how about converting some crosstown streets into bike/pedestrian traffic only?
1
Only if the bike riders respect pedestrians... they usually do not warn pedestrians when coming from behind a high speeds and the pedestrian cannot hear them.
4
@GJOSEPH, as someone who walks, cycles and drives the streets of Manhattan I can attest to the fact that the greatest impediment to pedestrian safety is pedestrian behavior. Jaywalking is the norm, not just at intersections against red lights, but in the middle of the block as well. Pedestrians almost never wait on the corner for a light to change, instead they stand off the curb in the street creating an obstacle for turning cyclists and cars.
As a cyclist in midtown it's difficult to cross and intersection, with the light, unless there is a vehicle setting a pic so the cyclist can make it through the blizzard of jaywalkers.
Because of my experiences as a cyclist I am a more mindful pedestrian. If everyone just followed their rules for the road depending on their particular circumstance things would operate more smoothly.
But when errant pedestrians, cyclists and drivers aren't subject to enforcement of the already established rules you get the chaos we have today.
As a cyclist in midtown it's difficult to cross and intersection, with the light, unless there is a vehicle setting a pic so the cyclist can make it through the blizzard of jaywalkers.
Because of my experiences as a cyclist I am a more mindful pedestrian. If everyone just followed their rules for the road depending on their particular circumstance things would operate more smoothly.
But when errant pedestrians, cyclists and drivers aren't subject to enforcement of the already established rules you get the chaos we have today.
1
I was hit by a bike messenger while I was crossing in the crosswalk with the light in my favor. Every single day I see cyclists: run red lights; travel against traffic, e.g., northbound on southbound streets, often at high speed; ride on the sidewalk; careen around cars that have been stopped for pedestrians crossing the street. In my experience, my observations show that the vast majority of cyclists are either clueless or deliberately reckless. They are subject to the traffic laws like every other operator of a vehicle.
3
The price structure is a large problem that discourages all but annual users. With the NYC weather that means only dedicated riders will buy it! Where is a six-month option for those who only ride in warm weather? Short term rates are too high! $10/per day vs. 41 cents/day for annual users? How does that encourage anyone to try Citibike? How about $10/week?
59
Even at $150/year this is the best bargain in NYC. Even if you only ride half the year it's still a bargain. Unless it's raining or snowing I'm using my membership. I've found even when it's 15 degrees I'd rather be on a Citibike getting where I need to go faster . . beats walking!
Bring some bikes uptown.
1
It must be male privilege, as there can be no other reason why men and women choose to do different things. I've always been perplexed, for example, why so many more women wear dresses.
2
There is really only one way to get people of all types and ages on bikes: make it feel safe to be on a bike. More protected bike lanes, please!
6
“And they worry about arriving at work sweaty.”
For years now, I’ve been puzzling over the question if the time would ever come in this country when women would quit grousing and complaining about their lot in life.
This article answers that question.
It informs us that women will quit complaining when someone invents a way for them to arrive at work looking fresh and pretty after a bike ride in heavy city traffic on a hot summer day.
For years now, I’ve been puzzling over the question if the time would ever come in this country when women would quit grousing and complaining about their lot in life.
This article answers that question.
It informs us that women will quit complaining when someone invents a way for them to arrive at work looking fresh and pretty after a bike ride in heavy city traffic on a hot summer day.
3
Women will stop complaining when people stop judging them for not looking fresh and pretty at all times.
2
So it's still about other people?
3
When people stop equating helmets with safety, we can start a real conversation about how to improve the infrastructure to prevent accidents and increase real safety. Helmet use is a small part of the safety equation but is considered to be everything you need to stay safe. Guess what, you can still get hit by a truck and killed with a helmet on.
5
I can tell you why my wife won't ride a bike - any bike, let alone a Citi bike - in NYC. The bike lanes are un-policed. The west side path if full of hordes of guys doing mass racing workouts going wayyy too fast. And she fears being hit / run over by one of these nuts who cannot contain themselves to a normal, orderly biking pace, and for whom there are no consequences to their dangerous actions. Fix that, and you'll take a big step forward in gender parity in biking.
142
It is NYC, it cannot be fixed, although, as a bike rider, I wish it could be.
But what does that have to do with a woman not being willing to ride, as opposed to a man?
I am a female rider and the congestion in the bike lanes does not discriminate by gender, as far as I can see.
But what does that have to do with a woman not being willing to ride, as opposed to a man?
I am a female rider and the congestion in the bike lanes does not discriminate by gender, as far as I can see.
7
what do you mean "normal, orderly?" Those people are training. If you're too weak to live in NYC, leave.
I jog about 7.4 mph along the Hudson. That's faster than 90% of other runners. I would hate to have someone tell me to run more slowly.
NYC , especially the West Side, is for strong, fierce people. I'm not joking.
I jog about 7.4 mph along the Hudson. That's faster than 90% of other runners. I would hate to have someone tell me to run more slowly.
NYC , especially the West Side, is for strong, fierce people. I'm not joking.
NM, thanks for your comment. Older women (we are middle aged) feel a bit more vulnerable around groups of big guys going fast. I feel less ill at ease in those situations. Perhaps age is a factor as well.
To narrow-minded Avery who doesn't seem to understand the difference between a vehicle and a body... bikes are vehicles. The bike paths are public pathways, not training grounds. People haven't been killed or severely injured by joggers, so have at it on the jogging path. However, people have indeed been killed or injured by bikers. Same as there are traffic rules for cars, there are traffic rules for bikes that are not enforced. If you're doing heavy training - it has nothing to do with being tough, or being enough to be in the city - you simply should not be training where you can do physical harm to people. If you don't agree with that, perhaps you are too self-centered to be in NYC.
To narrow-minded Avery who doesn't seem to understand the difference between a vehicle and a body... bikes are vehicles. The bike paths are public pathways, not training grounds. People haven't been killed or severely injured by joggers, so have at it on the jogging path. However, people have indeed been killed or injured by bikers. Same as there are traffic rules for cars, there are traffic rules for bikes that are not enforced. If you're doing heavy training - it has nothing to do with being tough, or being enough to be in the city - you simply should not be training where you can do physical harm to people. If you don't agree with that, perhaps you are too self-centered to be in NYC.
1
As the Times noted in a story a couple of years ago, European health agencies don't recommend bike helmets because they concluded that overall safety would actually be better without them. Women would be more likely to ride bikes if they didn't have to wear helmets, the Europeans reasoned, and that would mean more riders on the street.
The more riders on the street, the more drivers will pay attention and slow down -- which makes everybody safer.
The best way to protect riders is not to armor them but to get drivers to not run them over. Which, from the looks of it, is New York's problem.
The more riders on the street, the more drivers will pay attention and slow down -- which makes everybody safer.
The best way to protect riders is not to armor them but to get drivers to not run them over. Which, from the looks of it, is New York's problem.
50
People in the city practice defensive cycling—although probably half the cyclists I see on the street are riding without helmets.
As the recipient of a brain injury in 1981—which I acquired as a pedestrian—I will say I wish I'd been wearing a helmet at the time; coming back from such a devastating injury, with all its attendant physical and mental problems, robbed me of over ten years of my life.
The automobile-dominated climate of the streets is hostile to cyclists in general, and I'm not likely to ever ride a bike on the mean streets of Manhattan.
As the recipient of a brain injury in 1981—which I acquired as a pedestrian—I will say I wish I'd been wearing a helmet at the time; coming back from such a devastating injury, with all its attendant physical and mental problems, robbed me of over ten years of my life.
The automobile-dominated climate of the streets is hostile to cyclists in general, and I'm not likely to ever ride a bike on the mean streets of Manhattan.
12
Where were these agencies? The back rodes of Sweden? Copenhagen, among the laid back? Not HERE, for sure. Here is different, and tourists against-all-traffic-laws riding puts them at special risk. (Though anybody riding a bicycle in traffic or on bumpy pavement--or both--is at risk. )Sanitary code precludes shared headgear--as in rental helmets. However, helmets could be rented with disposable liners, and an alcohol wipe. Meanwhile, Citi Bike is inviting head trauma, as the situation now stands, and facial injury as well. For heaven's sake, this is not suburbia, or some demure European redoubt.
6
This comment makes no sense to me at all, as a passionate cyclist who commutes by bicycle in L.A. and does 200 miles+ training per week as well.
I've come off my bike 4 times in my life, 2 in L.A. and 2 in London, England. All four times were unrelated to other road users: namely, skidding on sand, hitting a pothole, and (both times in London) parked vehicles opening their doors into my path.
All 4 times, my helmet saved me from serious head injury.
People, do not listen to this "safer without a helmet" nonsense. There are many hazards out there on the roads, and cars are, unfortunately, just one of them. Don't be a dummy; wear a helmet.
I've come off my bike 4 times in my life, 2 in L.A. and 2 in London, England. All four times were unrelated to other road users: namely, skidding on sand, hitting a pothole, and (both times in London) parked vehicles opening their doors into my path.
All 4 times, my helmet saved me from serious head injury.
People, do not listen to this "safer without a helmet" nonsense. There are many hazards out there on the roads, and cars are, unfortunately, just one of them. Don't be a dummy; wear a helmet.
37
One more suggestion: get some docking stations in Queens! at the very least, Citi Field
3
The next phase is supposed to include stations in Queens. I would Google the proposed locations.
The Citi Bike agreement asks for rights to photograph you ANYWHERE, AT ANY TIME (regardless of whether using their bikes), and use for any purpose.
Even if this were limited to when one is using a bike, why should they
get these rights? Why should anyone be forced to give up one's rights to publicity and privacy solely because one rents a bike?
Maybe not only women (actors, models, and everyone else) should think twice about renting a bike with terms like these.
Section 21 Waivers
“You do hereby...give Your full and unconditional consent to
NYCBS...to use at any time and from time to time, without any
restriction, Your appearance and voice in photographs, videos, and
other recordings, … for all press, promotional, advertising,
publicity, and other commercial purposes,… and otherwise RECORD YOUR
APPEARANCE and voice, AT ANY TIME AND FROM TIME TO TIME,… and… the right to use… and exploit…, the photographs, videos.. and all related
merchandising, promotions, advertising, and publicity; and (3) waive,
release, and discharge … from all Claims that You have or may have for
any libel, defamation, invasion of privacy, right of publicity…..”
(emphasis added) .