Why is there still such a marked gender disparity in mountain biking? That’s the question that prompted Dr Fiona Spotswood, associate professor of marketing and consumption at the University of Bristol, to research gender equality within and women’s perceptions of mountain biking.
After numerous conversations with women across the UK, the results are fascinating - but perhaps not surprising. Women often don’t feel represented or included in how MTB is portrayed, but the good news is they aren’t waiting around for the bike industry to catch up.
This episode touches on representation, inclusion, grass-roots communities, how events like Red Bull Formation and Rampage play a part, and what needs to change to make mountain biking a more welcoming space for women. 

Spindrift

Spindrift / Aoife Glass

Dr Fiona Spotswood, researcher, on Project FIAS and gender inequality in mountain biking

SEP 29, 202361 MIN
Spindrift

Dr Fiona Spotswood, researcher, on Project FIAS and gender inequality in mountain biking

SEP 29, 202361 MIN

Description

Why is there still such a marked gender disparity in mountain biking? That’s the question that prompted Dr Fiona Spotswood, associate professor of marketing and consumption at the University of Bristol, to research gender equality within and women’s perceptions of mountain biking.

After numerous conversations with women across the UK, the results are fascinating - but perhaps not surprising. Women often don’t feel represented or included in how MTB is portrayed, but the good news is they aren’t waiting around for the bike industry to catch up.

This episode touches on representation, inclusion, grass-roots communities, how events like Red Bull Formation and Rampage play a part, and what needs to change to make mountain biking a more welcoming space for women.