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Women’s Road Cycling

Kit, Safety Tips & Confidence  

This guide is a simple starting point for women entering road cycling. We created this guide to break down the essentials to help get you out on the road and build your confidence.

You’ll learn how to choose the right kit for comfort and performance, what to look for in your first road bike, and how to stay safe and visible while riding.

Female cyclist in cycling gear in a cafe setting with two fellow cyclist.
Group of cyclists riding on a bridge during sunset.

What cycling kit do I actually need?

Feeling good on the bike is just as important as looking good. The most important item in your beginner cycling kit is a high-quality pair of bib shorts with a comfortable chamois (pronounced shammy).

A good pair of bibs can make or break your first cycling experience. For new riders we recommend the Women’s Sport Bib Shorts or Women’s Sport Waist Shorts. Some women prefer waist shorts over bibs, it’s a personal choice, but both styles use the same Womens specific padding to target weight bearing areas and keep you supported in different riding positions.

Your cycling jersey should also feel comfortable and be functional, with enough pockets to store snacks, your phone, and keys. Consider the weather when choosing your kit:

- On hot summer days, the Women’s Sport Lightweight Jersey is designed to keep you cool.

- On milder days, opt for the Women’s Sport Jersey, and layer it with the Women’s Sport Logo Gilet if there’s a breeze. A gilet is a key piece of kit which will quickly become your go-to accessory in breezy weather, or when descending. It will protect your core from windchill and can easily be packed down into your jersey pocket, when not needed.

And don’t forget the most essential piece of cycling gear: your helmet. It may not be the most exciting item, but it’s non-negotiable. Always ride with your helmet, safety first. 

Two female cyclists wearing Le Col kit riding through the city

What kind of bike should I buy?

You might already have a bike in your garage. But if you’re looking to buy your first road bike, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options.

For beginners, we recommend avoiding race-specific bikes and instead going for an endurance road bike. These are typically more affordable, comfortable, and forgiving in geometry, making them ideal for new riders.

There are also women-specific bikes on the market, designed with geometry that suits the average female frame and often requiring fewer adjustments. Unisex bikes can still work well but may need tweaks to the saddle, stem, or handlebars to achieve a comfortable fit.

Ultimately, a bike that fits well will make all the difference. It will give you more control, confidence, and comfort on the road. 

How do I build confidence on the road?

Riding on the road can feel intimidating at first, especially when sharing space with traffic. But there are simple ways to ease in and build confidence on open roads. Start small:

-Ride with a friend who’s already confident on the road. They can guide you through safe road positioning and traffic awareness.

-If you’re heading out solo, always let someone know your route and estimated return time.

-Use route planning apps like Strava to find beginner-friendly roads with lower traffic and bike lanes which don’t stray too far away from home.

A few key safety tips for new road cyclists:

- Ride about 1 metre from the curb, this avoids drains, potholes, and keeps you visible to cars.

- Don’t hug the edge, it invites vehicles to overtake unsafely. 

- Be assertive, you have every right to be on the road.

- Use lights, front and rear, if visibility is low or you’re riding early or late.

- Always bring a spare inner tube and mini pump (or CO2 canister)

The more you ride, the more natural it will feel. Confidence will build gradually over time the more you ride.

Cyclist riding on a road with a blurred background

Start Small and Ride Often 

Being a beginner at cycling can be daunting, but it’s also exciting. Keep it simple and focus on enjoying each ride. Every ride will build your confidence and strength. Don’t worry about speed or distance, just focus on showing up and learning from each ride.

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