Women in New York not cycling due to danger

Summary of Story from NY Times, July 4, 2011

Julie Hirschfeld, owner of a fashion orientated bicycle boutique for women, told the New York Times this week that  it takes more than fashion to get women on bikes.

Despite the city’s efforts to become more cycle-friendly, male cyclists continue to outnumber females three to one.

The city is lagging behind cities like Portland which have narrowed the gender gap, and other global cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam where women make up the majority of cyclists.

Hirschfeld argues that if women felt safe on the roads, more of them would be out riding.

John Pucher, professor of planning and transportation at Rutgers University echoes this sentiment: “I’m convinced that one of the reasons New York City has such a low percentage of women cyclists is that it’s dangerous.”

Although 0ther experts say that cycling in New York is not more dangerous for women, they are less likely to engage in something that is perceived to be risky.