marketing to the female rider

Road biking and especially mountain biking are male dominated, but this trend maybe on the decline. More products are being marketed towards the female rider. In years past, the races I have competed had very few female riders, if any at all. The last couple of years the number of female riders has increased and so has the quality of the female riders. The more females ride and race the experience and expertise will increase. I am not ashamed to say that I have been lapped by expert class female riders. Either I begin to increase my skills or there will more female riders passing me up.
The Sea Otter Classic is an event that is being used by bike manufacturers to show off their new products, and more precisely to the female rider. In the past many female riders had to use the stock male mountain bike for their ride, but this came at price. Female riders would commonly complain of back pain. The stock frame is designed for a typical male body frame, which is traditionally longer. Frame manufacturers are offering varying frame geometries. Between frames and components, female riders have the ability to fit the bike to their needs.

Where have the girls gone?
Sea Otter Classic
Clifbar Sponsorship
Cycling News
http://www.decaturdaily.com/decaturdaily/livingtoday/050225/bike.shtml
http://www.girlgroove.com/saddle/