Throughout history the humble bicycle has helped women gain mobility, increased social and political freedom and brought countless hours of joy. Yet, barriers still preventing many women from getting in the saddle.
If you have a dusty bike in your shed this episode will inspire you to pump up the tyres jump in the saddle and feel the wind in your hair…
For women, the humble bicycle is much more than a mode of transport. Over the last century the so called ‘freedom machines’ have helped women gain independence, increased social and political freedom and brought countless hours of joy.
In this episode we speak to author Hannah Ross, whose book ‘Revolutions: How Women Changed the World on Two Wheels’ brings to life of some of the stories of the remarkable female pioneers who fought not only for their right to ride a bike, but for their freedom.
We discuss:
- How women were perceived in the 1890s when women first began cycling.
- How women dressed on the bicycle and why certain clothes caused a stir!
- How one pioneering women cycled around the world to prove men wrong.
- The role the bicycle played for the suffragettes.
- Why better cycling infrastructure can help get more women on bicycles.
- The hope for the future of female participation in cycling.
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