Saturday, May 18, 2002 -- Ligonier, PA
Women's Mountain Bike Clinic (iPO Event Id#: 4949)
Story and photos by Heather Bury
[Details]
[Coverage]
[Pic Set 1]
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The group of fifty women that were assembled was a good mix of
beginning cyclists and racing veterans, some moms and some college
students. Everyone was split into three categories, beginner,
intermediate, and advanced.
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The second session was given by Chris Cocalis, the owner of Titus Titanium.
Chris explained the difference between men's and women's ergonomics
and why women need bikes specifically designed for women. Which, as
luck would have it, Titus offers. The basic jist of it is that women
are shorter with an average height of 5'4", with a shorter torso
than men, and a shorter femur length. This is often referred to as
Femmetry. Titus' big sell is not a smaller frame, but a shorter top
tube length and a different seat tube angle.
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In the meantime, the intermediate and advanced cyclists went right off onto the trails to learn about taking on logs, rock beds, and climbs. As if the terrain on Laurel Mountain isn't challenging enough, Mother Nature had blessed the riders with a few days of rain and very muddy conditions.
After three hours of fun, we went away with a new experience, some muddy clothes, and cold hands and feet. I, myself, have a new knowledge of the mountain bike itself. I tried many things that I wouldn't have on my own, and I am now much more confident in my riding ability. A big thanks goes out to all the ladies (okay, and the guys, too.)