Like a dog’s tail communicates its mood, a bike’s top tube often indicates its intended use. A traditional, high top tube suggests a bike built for performance and rigidity. Conversely, a dramatically sloping or low top tube might be quickly dismissed as a “girl’s bike,” implying it’s less serious or not for ‘real’ cyclists. But this perception is outdated and fundamentally wrong.
While step-through frames were historically designed to accommodate women wearing skirts and dresses, their benefits extend far beyond outdated gender norms. In fact, these frames were revolutionary in their time, empowering women and challenging Victorian societal constraints. Ironically, the very design that once symbolized liberation is now often seen as less capable than its high-top-tube counterpart. This couldn’t be further from the truth, especially when considering the needs and preferences of modern riders, including girls and women of all ages.
As someone who initially favored the racing aesthetic and performance of traditional diamond frames, I never seriously considered owning a step-through bike. That changed when practicality became a priority. The need to carry cargo led me to a step-through cargo bike, and suddenly, the ease of mounting and dismounting became incredibly appealing. Swinging a leg high over a top tube started to feel unnecessarily cumbersome. This isn’t to say I abandoned my love for high-performance bikes, but it opened my eyes to the sheer utility and elegance of step-through designs. The convenience was undeniable, and I soon found myself drawn to the idea of a versatile step-through bike for everyday riding, eventually acquiring a Rivendell Platypus. It’s my first step-through bike for general use, and it’s been a revelation.
Traditional diamond frames undeniably offer advantages, particularly in strength and rigidity, thanks to their triangular structure – something that engineers like Frank Costanza would appreciate. This design excels in competitive cycling where maximum power transfer and minimal weight are paramount, and frequent mounting and dismounting are not a primary concern (except in cyclocross, where it becomes an athletic spectacle). However, even within competitive cycling, the trend has been towards lower top tubes. Mountain bikes adopted sloping top tubes for increased standover clearance during technical riding, and in road cycling, Giant’s revolutionary compact TCR frame in 1998, with its dramatically sloping top tube, changed road bike design forever. While initially met with skepticism, the design’s stiffness and lighter weight, offered in a broader range of sizes, proved its performance benefits. Today, sloping top tubes are the norm in road bikes.
Considering the downward trend of top tubes in performance bikes, it’s logical to question why step-through frames are still largely associated with comfort, leisurely rides, or specifically marketed as “Bikes For Girls” in a limited sense. While step-throughs are popular as comfortable town bikes, stylish city bikes, and fitness bikes, their potential extends far beyond casual riding. There’s a vast spectrum of riding between relaxed cruising and competitive racing, and it’s in this space where step-through frames offer incredible versatility and robustness. My Platypus, for example, is not just a great city bike; it’s equally capable on longer rides, handles various terrains, and can be easily equipped for bike-packing or touring, only drawing the line at extreme mountain biking or high-speed road racing.
When you move beyond the need for dedicated cycling apparel, clipless pedals, and drop bars, reconsidering the top tube becomes a natural progression. Is swinging a leg over a high top tube truly essential for everyone? For many, especially girls and women, or anyone with mobility limitations, the answer is a clear no. The inviting ease of a step-through frame is akin to sinking into a perfectly made bed in a hotel – effortlessly comfortable and welcoming. It simplifies getting on and off the bike for quick stops at cafes, scenic overlooks, or simply taking a break.
While adventure-oriented step-through bikes might seem niche, brands like Rivendell are not alone in recognizing the performance potential of low top tubes. Jones Bikes has long championed the Spaceframe, emphasizing its comfort, maneuverability, and all-terrain capability. Soma Fabrications offers the Buena Vista, a mixte frame with a sporty edge for road-focused riders. Marin Bikes’ Larkspur 2 is another example, a gravel-ready step-through bike built for adventure. These bikes demonstrate that step-through frames are not just for leisurely rides around the park; they are capable machines for serious cycling in various forms.
The cycling world is increasingly embracing features once considered comfort-focused, such as wider tires and lower gears. Modern materials and designs have eliminated the weight penalty associated with these features, and there’s a growing understanding that comfort enhances performance. As we move away from the outdated notion of ultra-rigid, uncomfortable bikes, we should also reconsider the necessity of the traditional diamond frame for all types of riding. While a high top tube might project a racier image, the practicality and versatility of a step-through frame often outweigh any perceived performance drawbacks for everyday riding and adventure. Don’t let outdated aesthetics dictate your choice – consider the real-world benefits and freedom that a step-through frame, a truly evolved “bike for girls” (and everyone!), can offer.
