Bikes

Znetwork -  Bicycles have been linked to independence since their invention in the early 19th century. European women were largely expected to stay home before that, traveling only under supervision. Through the self-sovereignty and freedom of mobility that cycling brought, they were afforded greater involvement in community, politics, and commerce. As the National Women’s History Museum’s website states, “Bicycles came to symbolize the quintessential ‘New Woman’ of the late 19th century,” who was “almost always depicted on a bike.”

Highlighting the importance of bicycles in the women’s suffrage movement, World Bicycle Relief points out that “[w]omen became more aware of the public climate and could meet each other freely to socialize as well as to organize.” Bicycles continue to promote self-reliance even today. For example, according to the UK-based charity Wheels for Wellbeing, cycling helps give autonomy to people with impairments by decreasing strain on joints, reducing breathing difficulties, and improving balance. A 2018 report by the nonprofit further contends that 75 percent of disabled cyclists find bicycle riding easier than walking. MORE