There has been an unprecedented rise in the number of women taking up biking with a passion in the Capital. Expeditions organised by various biking clubs in the city are drawing young women in large numbers. Members of these clubs reveal that Delhi too, like Chandigarh and Pune, is waking up to the trend of women commuting on their geared vehicles.
Dakshdeep Singh Sethi, the co-founder of Bold, a biking club, confirms that entries are pouring in from women who want to be a part of an expedition planned for Rajasthan, on March 10. “The number of women riders has increased in recent past and they are as skilled as men riders. Biking is considered to be challenging and more and more women are taking it up. They are lining up for tough expeditions,” he says.
Explaining the rise in the number of women bikers in the city, he says, “The swelling numbers can be attributed to the increase of biker’s groups in Delhi which provide a platform for bikers (including women) to come and ride together. These groups organise adventure expeditions and encourage women riders. Women feel comfortable to ride with such groups as they feel secure.”
Ramma Arun Kumar, a consultant in a research organisation, owns a Bajaj Discover and is gearing up for the March expedition. She says, “If men can do it, so can we, that’s what I feel. It gives me a sense of freedom and independence. I get a kick out of it. Like me, there are many other women too who enjoy owning and riding a bike.”
{{/usCountry}}Ramma Arun Kumar, a consultant in a research organisation, owns a Bajaj Discover and is gearing up for the March expedition. She says, “If men can do it, so can we, that’s what I feel. It gives me a sense of freedom and independence. I get a kick out of it. Like me, there are many other women too who enjoy owning and riding a bike.”
{{/usCountry}}Angelina Dass, an avid biker who owns a Yamaha says, “I usually take off over the weekends to nearby getaways with my husband. It feels great to be there on the road and to be in control. I got inspired by my husband who owns a bullet and is a member of Royal Beast. It was while riding pillion that I realised I could ride too.”
Arpan Dasgupta, also a member of Royal Beast motorcycling society says, “Women are a lot more confident and willing to take up challenges. Bikes today have become light-weight and easy to ride. Though biker women are not on the forefront, the truth is that Delhi has more of them than Pune and Chandigarh.” He adds, “Bollywood actors like Katrina, Gul Panag and Kareena have inspired many.” “Commuting on a bike is cheaper compared to public transport. It may not be safe but that’s the fun, you get a thrill out of it,” says Kripy Sharma, a filmmaker and a passionate biker.