Does Seven offer woman-specific bicycle frames? Well, yes and no. "Women-specific" bikes are typically based on a few generalizations and stereotypes about women's anatomy and needs. Most of these offerings are simply variations of existing models, employing shorter top tubes and stems and slacker head angles. Unfortunately, while these modifications may improve the fit for some women, the bike's performance is often compromised as a result.
At Seven, we believe that the only way to thoroughly address your needs as a female cyclist—from fit, comfort, performance, and even aesthetics—is with a bicycle designed and built specifically for you as an individual. By completing our easy-to-use Custom Kit™, you provide us with a wealth of information about you and your riding habits, allowing us to create a bicycle frame that meets your every need, without compromise.
Generalizing too much in this area is dangerous, because women's bodies vary more from woman to woman than men's do from man to man. Nonetheless, here are a few additional elements that Seven takes into account when designing a bicycle for a woman:
The ischial tuberosities (perch bones) are farther apart and angled outward more than a man's, thus affecting saddle position and saddle height. Increased tilt affects reach and the center of gravity balance between the wheels, while a shallower pelvis affects saddle position and differential.
Affects center of gravity and saddle position.
Also affects saddle position and overall reach.
Affects center of gravity, handling, saddle position, and reach.
Affects reach and differential.
Affects front-end geometry and handling.
Affects upper body fatigue.
This can result in the wheelbase being too short, the front wheel being too far under the rider, and a bad center of gravity. Also, with not enough weight on the rear wheel, handling, traction, and tracking are poor.
If the stem is too short, the front end will handle poorly. The bike's front-end weight should be distributed properly on the front wheel. Too short of a stem makes the bike's handling squirrelly.
The head tube angle combined with the fork rake produce the bike's trail. Trail determines the handling characteristics of the bike. If the head tube angle is slackened too much, the bike will handle sluggishly. Too little weight on the front wheel means poor traction in cornering.
Improved comfort. You'll notice minimized discomfort in your lower back, upper back, neck, shoulders, knees, and saddle contact point.
Less fatigue. No discomfort means less stress fatigue. Road vibration is minimized by Seven's rider-specific tube set.
Injury prevention.
Better performance. You'll have more power and more sustainable power.
Better breathing. You'll breathe more easily, increasing power output per liter of oxygen.
Less fatigue. Improved breathing and power output mean less stress and more efficient use of your energy.
Tailored handling and performance for your specific needs and riding style.
Better fit = less fatigue.
You can ride longer and more often!