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Re-activateCompanies still make drop-tube bikes (pictured at right), but now there are also female-specific bikes with frame geometry (the angles and length of the tubes that make up the bike frame) designed to better fit the average woman. They look very similar to unisex bikes (what used to be called men's bikes, pictured at right, below) but bring the handlebars closer to the rider to accommodate the shorter reach of most women.
A drop-tube bike might make it easier to get on the bike and is fine for most recreational riding, but may not be as rigid as a traditional unisex style frame. If you plan to do more than recreational riding, a unisex frame or female-specific frame will be more rigid, allowing for greater efficiency and often sportier handling.
—Rich Handel, Consumer Reports project leader
For more on choosing a bike to suit your casual lifestyle, see our budget bikes report and Ratings (available to subscribers)
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