It was a beautiful day, the sun shining brightly with excitement buzzing in the air at the Hong Kong Cyclothon. I felt a surge of empowerment as I tightened my helmet, ready to embrace the 50km ride ahead. But a hint of uncertainty crept in—I couldn’t help but notice I was nearly the only woman among a sea of 3000 cyclists. “Am I in the wrong race, or has road cycling become a male-dominated sport?” I wondered.

Cyclothon 2024
The Hong Kong Tourism Board, organizer of the Cyclothon, doesn’t provide gender statistics for the event. Still, the Hong Kong Cycling Association has acknowledged a significant underrepresentation of female cyclists in Hong Kong, spanning both professional athletes and casual riders. They revealed that in open road cycling races, the ratio of men to women is approximately 7:1.

Hong Kong is not particularly bike-friendly. Many commuters, especially women, hesitate to embrace cycling as a viable mode of transportation or leisure activity due to the lack of laws protecting their safety. When cycling on the roads, using lights, wearing a helmet, and securing proper shoes are highly recommended, though not legally required. The absence of dedicated cycling routes has also deterred many from taking up the sport.  

Natasha Tang, who bikes daily and recently completed a triathlon, noted that she rarely sees or hears of many women cycling, aside from those training for triathlons.  

“I wear a helmet, gloves, clip-in shoes, a bright cycling outfit, and have lights on the bike,” Tang said. “But people still ask if I’m afraid of cars and buses when cycling on the roads.” For most people, traffic seems to be the main concern, according to Tang.

As eco-friendly bike enthusiasts glide through the bustling city streets, they often encounter the chaotic maneuvers of aggressive taxi drivers weaving in and out of traffic, sparking road rage and turning what should be an enjoyable ride into a nerve-wracking ordeal.  

Cycling is even banned along the harborfront on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, except for a short track segment in the West Kowloon Cultural District. If you’re traveling across the harbor with your bike, the MTR requires you to fold it by removing one wheel. Meanwhile, the Central-TST ferries don’t allow bikes onboard at all. These restrictions limit access and hinder engagement with Hong Kong’s cycling culture—whether for commuting, exploring the city, or exercising.  

Despite the challenges and potential risks on the roads, a vibrant movement is emerging. Passionate cycling enthusiasts, alongside innovative fashion brands, are forging new and distinctive cycling communities, paving the way for a subculture that is set to thrive.  

Unlocking A New Community
IBike HK, a social cycling group founded in London as IBikeLondon by Anthony Lau, organizes weekly urban rides to help cyclists build more confidence riding in the city. With a current female-to-male rider ratio of 1:10, Lau said they’re eager for more women to experience urban cycling. The weekly meetup start with small rides in familiar environments, aiming to build skill and comfort.

“Cycling should extend beyond a leisure activity confined to the New Territories or designated bike lanes,” Lau says. Through these rides, he wants to show female cyclists that the roads are safe as long as they stay aware of their surroundings and ride properly—whether on Nathan Road or Connaught Road.  

In addition to its core mission of promoting road-sharing, IBike also lends bikes and provides quick repair and pumping services. Among the members, some regular cyclists with professional backgrounds in bike mechanics generously volunteer their expertise, fixing bikes for fellow riders before and after rides.  

Pedal with Panache
Fashion plays a pivotal role in making cycling appealing and accessible. A stylish outfit can transform a simple ride into a statement of self-expression. MAAP Lab, a recently opened retail shop in Central, designs clothing that blends functionality with chic aesthetics, empowering women to feel confident on and off the bike. The shop offers a diverse selection of accessories, including stylish helmets, gloves, jackets, and padded socks. As a special touch, you’re welcomed with a complimentary coffee each time you visit.  

Through the Strava app, MAAP Lab also organizes tailored group rides for different skill levels, including women-only and beginner-friendly options. Its mission is to celebrate the culture, art, and progression of cycling. These rides take place at 7 a.m. every Friday and Saturda. 

A Sense of Freedom
From conquering challenging trails to embarking on long-distance rides, many women have discovered their love for cycling through inspiring journeys that have transformed their lives. Cycling lets you see the world from a fresh perspective, one pedal stroke at a time.  

Bike Shops/Repair on HK Island:
-    Cycling Town Bike (Kennedy Town)
-    Sky Blue Bikes (Kennedy Town)
-    Bike Station (North Point)
-    Modern Classic Bicycle Company (Wong Chuk Hang)
-    BMX (online shop)

Cyclists Social Clubs:
-    MAAP (Central)
-    Rapha Cycling Club (Sheung Wan)
-    IBike HK

^{Edited by Caroline Tam}