Ladies' Corner
This page will soon hold words of wisdom from the lovely ladies who've pedalled the roads of Northern India with Out There Biking.
To kick this off, here's some thoughts based on Sarah, Jan, and Annie's feedback after our Manali-Leh self-supported ride in 2005.
1 - Cut back on weight in your washbags. No real need for that big bottle of shampoo and conditioner (I just use local soap - others went for an all-in-one biodegradeable soap). Except for main towns, there aren't too many places for a proper shower - it's often a river or the old bucket routine. The air is quite dry and pleasant, so it's not too bad. Try decanting heavy liquids into smaller containers. No make-up required!!
2 - The combined challenges of altitude, Indian foods (and the odd stomach
bug), a different daily routine, and lots of cycling have an impact on
your periods. That may mean that they go altogether, you have a heavier
flow than normal and/or you get breakthrough even with the pill or suppressants.
Basically anything can happen, so please be prepared. Tampons are NOT
available. We've found that non-applicator ones from home are a great
idea. They pack up small, make little waste and can be stashed for "just
in case". Please bring your supplies from home!!
3 - On the hygene note still...because it's not always easy to have a
good private scrub when we're camping (a sarong is very useful) you might
want to bring along Fem-fresh wipes or baby wipes to keep yourself clean.
You don't want rashes and infections while on the saddle!
4 - Make sure your underwear/cycling shorts are comfy for riding, and
maybe bring a little nappy rash cream if you are likely to get sore parts.
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A few links to bike websites geared to women:
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