The articles references comparisons between male/female bicycle trip ratios in the US (2:1) and in Germany and the Netherlands (close to 1:1). Referencing prior studies on gender roles, the article suggests that women are more risk averse, and generally responsible for a greater share of child care and household shopping – necessitating safe bicycle infrastructure that connects practical urban destinations. Most bike paths are intended for recreational use and don’t help with fetching household staples.

It’s an interesting article, and given the proportionality of male/female trips by bicycle in the US, one that is worthy of consideration by transit planners and urban designers.

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Author: julie

Julie Kosbab is an online marketing consultant and active transportation advocate living in Anoka County, Minnesota. She was one of Minnesota's only League of American Bicyclists Certified Instructors when certified in 2005. She is a past member of the National Bicycle Tour Directors Association. She has 2 children and 4 bicycles. Find her on Twitter as @betweenstations.