How do the fit needs of men and women differ?

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:

Pelvic structure: wider, more tilted, and shallower

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.

Legs: longer

Affects center of gravity and saddle position.

Femurs: longer

Also affects saddle position and overall reach.

Weight distribution: lower and farther back

Affects center of gravity, handling, saddle position, and reach.

Neck: longer, with shorter torso

Affects reach and differential.

Shoulders: narrower

Affects front-end geometry and handling.

Hands: smaller

Affects upper body fatigue.

Common Misconceptions About Women's Fit Needs

"Just shorten the top tube."

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.

"Just shorten the stem."

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.

"Just make the head tube angle slacker so the front end is farther away."

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.

Why a custom Seven?

Better ergonomics

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.

Improved biomechanics

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.

More fun

Tailored handling and performance for your specific needs and riding style.

Better fit = less fatigue.

You can ride longer and more often!