Why does a bicycle for a male have a bar, while a female's bike doesn't?

Question

You know, the bar that goes from under the handlebars to below the seat. I mean, wouldn't it be more logical if it were reversed? Is is there something I'm missing here? Serious answers only, please!

Answer 1

I think the female bike was originally designed for modesty.

They did not include a bar on the female bike because she would have to kick up her leg and show what was under her skirt and this at that time was not lady-like and unacceptable.

Answer 2

That stems from the days when women mostly wore dresses. That would be quite cumbersome with the bar.

The same problem existed with riding horses hence the women rode what was called a 'side saddle'. The left leg was down in a normal stirrup while the right leg was slightly bent and also on the left.

My great aunts caused quite a stir in St. Louis when they rode men's saddles with their bulky dresses. (later part of 1800's)

Answer 3

Women's specific bikes have the same frame shape as men's bikes do, but the geometry is different.

Only cheap department store bicycles and cruisers are made the way you describe. Wal-Mart does not sell bicycles, they sell boat anchors.

Answer 4

I BELEIVE IT HAS TO DO WITH BACK IN THE DAY WHEN LADIES WERE MENT TO ACT LIKE LADIES.
IT WAS SO THEY COULD MOUNT AND DISMOUNT THERE BIKE WHILE KEEPING SOME DIGNITY AND NOT LIFTING THEIR DRESSES UP TO HIGH FOR ALL TO SEE WHATS UNDER THEM.