According to the League of American Bicyclists, women are making up an increasing number of cyclists nationwide. The League recently published a report about the growth and potential for women as cyclists- whether recreational users or commuters. “From 2003 to 2012, the number of women and girls participating in bicycling rose 20%, while dropping 0.5% among men and boys. (6)  60% of bicycle owners aged 17 to 28 years old are women.”

While ridership is up, the number of female cycling advocates remains low on a national average. The study reports that women are underrepresented in cycling leadership positions, such as boards of advocacy organizations.  Billings however, seems to be on the cutting edge with BikeNet’s Carolyn Jones and Laura Estes as longtime members of the board of directors and Kristi Drake as the Executive Director.  Cycling organizations such as Montana Velo Bella and the Billings Area Cycling Network, enjoy significant participation of females.

Coming soon is the all-female Velo Bella Women’s Bicycle Tour Sept. 8, 2013. This 15, 22 or 40-mile ride supports the YWCA and Montana Hope Project. To register, see the Montana Velo Bella website.

Yellowstone Valley Weekend for Women also promotes women’s running and cycling, and their magazine is a major supporter of Ales for Trails.

Read the Leauge’s full report here