Why is bicycling culture so snobby?
#101
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#102
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Ever hear of Strava I know you have, just lightheartedly pointing out the fact that being able to prove one's superiority in a sport that many practice by themselves is what it's all about. Obviously, a tool like Strava isn't inherently bad -- all this depends on how far you take it. Certainly, Strava didn't create this innate need to compete and challenge oneself, but they're certainly playing off of it and the service's popularity demonstrates the market exists.
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Actually, that is what you said.
I don't like bike snobs. I think they hurt the sport and alienate newcomers with their attitude. Several people have told me that they refuse to join a local bike club because of the bike snobs and I don't blame them a bit.
So, according to what you wrote, I just complained about snobs and am therefor insecure. In actuality, nothing could be further from the truth. If they want to demean others because of what they ride, that's their problem, not mine.
I'm done. Have a nice day.
I don't like bike snobs. I think they hurt the sport and alienate newcomers with their attitude. Several people have told me that they refuse to join a local bike club because of the bike snobs and I don't blame them a bit.
So, according to what you wrote, I just complained about snobs and am therefor insecure. In actuality, nothing could be further from the truth. If they want to demean others because of what they ride, that's their problem, not mine.
I'm done. Have a nice day.
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What's on second. I Don't Know, third base.
#107
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Is it being a snob to think you're better than everyone else, when you really are?
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Some people need to get over themselves. No matter what you do there is always someone better than you.
OTOH -------------- he who tooteth not his own horn will find his horn has not been tooted. But hopefully in moderation.
OTOH -------------- he who tooteth not his own horn will find his horn has not been tooted. But hopefully in moderation.
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OP makes some very good points and I'm sure he types a lot faster than me! Overall I think cyclists are a lot less snobby in person than they are when posting to forums like this online. That's got a lot to do with internet culture in general, I think – it's easier to be a jerk when you're not actually in the presence of the person you're dissing, isn't it? Of course that doesn't excuse being a jerk no matter what. The same type of thing applies to things like email communication – you have to mince words sometimes to avoid being taken the wrong way, because no one can see your face or hear the inflections in your voice that might explain that you're trying to be humorously sarcastic, or condescending, or whatever. Or not – some people really ARE jerks! A smiley face icon can only go so far.
But I agree that cycling in general tends to either attract some folks who have something to prove to someone to make them feel better about themselves; or else there's something about it I can't explain that brings out uncivil behavior in some. Can you imagine how cycling would change if no one's bikes or clothes had any manufacturer's logos splashed all over them? What if everyone had the same color bike and everyone wore the same colored shorts and jerseys and helmets, all without logos? I'm not advocating that – it would be boring, for one thing, and not good for commerce, either! But it would kind of equalize the playing field to the extent that you'd have to make your superiority known by your riding skills, as opposed to your fancy whatever. Until the first jerk buys a can of spray paint, anyway.
But I agree that cycling in general tends to either attract some folks who have something to prove to someone to make them feel better about themselves; or else there's something about it I can't explain that brings out uncivil behavior in some. Can you imagine how cycling would change if no one's bikes or clothes had any manufacturer's logos splashed all over them? What if everyone had the same color bike and everyone wore the same colored shorts and jerseys and helmets, all without logos? I'm not advocating that – it would be boring, for one thing, and not good for commerce, either! But it would kind of equalize the playing field to the extent that you'd have to make your superiority known by your riding skills, as opposed to your fancy whatever. Until the first jerk buys a can of spray paint, anyway.
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Check out the book, "Just Ride" by Grant Peterson. In the book he discusses this.
If people want to imitate famous racers, so be it. Some people love to accessorize and have the best of the best. Great for them!
But if you are one of them, that doesn't make you better than the teenager with the Walmart Special. In fact, nowadays I see so many people staring at screens, whether it be phones, TVs, tablets, etc. At work, home, and most everywhere else. I hate seeing snobby cyclists take the fun out of this hobby for people who can't afford to be so fancy, or who choose not to.
The beautiful thing about bikes is, you only need a bike to ride. It seems that people have forgotten this important fact from their childhood. You want to go see a friend, so what do you do? Hop on your bike! You don't change into special bike designated clothes. How silly! Just Ride! (Although, to be fair I sweat a lot more now that I'm older. So maybe for me, a change of clothes )
Most of us are doing it for our health or recreation. We aren't racing. We aren't sponsored. We're just having fun. So do what's fun. I'm a poor college student. I can't afford pimped out bikes, and I certainly don't have a variety in my garage to choose from. And there are cyclesnobs out there who would argue that I shouldn't bike because I can't afford the "right" bike, or the "right" clothes. Biking isn't some exclusive country club event. Where do these people get off passing judgement?
People often ask PTs/trainers/doctors/etc. when the best time to exercise is. Here's the answer: The best time to exercise is the time when you'll actually get it done.
What is the best way to bike then? The way that gets you on your bike.
If you feel like you need all the bells and whistles, fine. If you don't like that stuff, can't afford it, or whatever, then don't. Just do whatever gets you moving! Just ride! And help and encourage your fellow bikers.
We're ALL passing the guy on the couch! Keep going
If people want to imitate famous racers, so be it. Some people love to accessorize and have the best of the best. Great for them!
But if you are one of them, that doesn't make you better than the teenager with the Walmart Special. In fact, nowadays I see so many people staring at screens, whether it be phones, TVs, tablets, etc. At work, home, and most everywhere else. I hate seeing snobby cyclists take the fun out of this hobby for people who can't afford to be so fancy, or who choose not to.
The beautiful thing about bikes is, you only need a bike to ride. It seems that people have forgotten this important fact from their childhood. You want to go see a friend, so what do you do? Hop on your bike! You don't change into special bike designated clothes. How silly! Just Ride! (Although, to be fair I sweat a lot more now that I'm older. So maybe for me, a change of clothes )
Most of us are doing it for our health or recreation. We aren't racing. We aren't sponsored. We're just having fun. So do what's fun. I'm a poor college student. I can't afford pimped out bikes, and I certainly don't have a variety in my garage to choose from. And there are cyclesnobs out there who would argue that I shouldn't bike because I can't afford the "right" bike, or the "right" clothes. Biking isn't some exclusive country club event. Where do these people get off passing judgement?
People often ask PTs/trainers/doctors/etc. when the best time to exercise is. Here's the answer: The best time to exercise is the time when you'll actually get it done.
What is the best way to bike then? The way that gets you on your bike.
If you feel like you need all the bells and whistles, fine. If you don't like that stuff, can't afford it, or whatever, then don't. Just do whatever gets you moving! Just ride! And help and encourage your fellow bikers.
We're ALL passing the guy on the couch! Keep going
#112
Senior Member
is not the sting of the snob
no greater than the sound
of a snowflake as it strikes
the surface of granite
detach, my friend
seek the transcendent
truth, beauty, justice
and HTFU
no greater than the sound
of a snowflake as it strikes
the surface of granite
detach, my friend
seek the transcendent
truth, beauty, justice
and HTFU
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Momento mori, amor fati.
Momento mori, amor fati.
#113
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There is some truth to the phenomenon he points out. Not saying this applies to anyone here, but have you ever noticed how there are those who, in theory, say they believe in "live and let live," yet they regularly point out lots of things about a particular person/people who bother them. If it truly didn't bother them, they'd let it just sail over their head and not let it occupy any time of their day.
To bring this back to cycling, the perceived "snobbery" probably has to do with the fact that, as a whole, road cycling attracts a demographic that tends to be "type A" and embodies a "work hard/play hard" mentality. Many of those kinds of folks will spend more time telling you how they're right or superior than actually proving it.
To bring this back to cycling, the perceived "snobbery" probably has to do with the fact that, as a whole, road cycling attracts a demographic that tends to be "type A" and embodies a "work hard/play hard" mentality. Many of those kinds of folks will spend more time telling you how they're right or superior than actually proving it.
Last edited by delcrossv; 08-06-14 at 07:48 AM.
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The bike world certainly has its' level of perceived hierarchy. Personally, I have traveled through all the levels, from newbie to century rider to age group racer. At each step along the way I felt I had become more and more accomplished and I started to take on a little attitude, until I was able to look inward and understand that we all have to start somewhere and it would be best to share one's experiences and knowledge as opposed to alienating those who have not yet achieved the upper levels of bike riding. After all it still comes down to just pedaling the bike. I'd like to see us as a bike community embrace the opportunity to reach out to those who love the sport and help them improve to whatever level they wish to attain.
localroute
localroute
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I've met plenty of racers who are obsessed with their equipment, not always for the right reasons. I've met recreational cyclists who express contempt for those on racing bikes who wear full cycling kit. I've met supposedly cool dudes who sneer at other people's attire, on or off the bike. I've met recumbent evangelists who refuse to believe that anyone can be comfortable on a diamond frame. But I've never, ever, met a cyclist who has believed that ordinary people shouldn't ride ordinary bikes in ordinary clothes.
#117
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Check out the book, "Just Ride" by Grant Peterson. In the book he discusses this.
If people want to imitate famous racers, so be it. Some people love to accessorize and have the best of the best. Great for them!
But if you are one of them, that doesn't make you better than the teenager with the Walmart Special. In fact, nowadays I see so many people staring at screens, whether it be phones, TVs, tablets, etc. At work, home, and most everywhere else. I hate seeing snobby cyclists take the fun out of this hobby for people who can't afford to be so fancy, or who choose not to.
The beautiful thing about bikes is, you only need a bike to ride. It seems that people have forgotten this important fact from their childhood. You want to go see a friend, so what do you do? Hop on your bike! You don't change into special bike designated clothes. How silly! Just Ride! (Although, to be fair I sweat a lot more now that I'm older. So maybe for me, a change of clothes )
Most of us are doing it for our health or recreation. We aren't racing. We aren't sponsored. We're just having fun. So do what's fun. I'm a poor college student. I can't afford pimped out bikes, and I certainly don't have a variety in my garage to choose from. And there are cyclesnobs out there who would argue that I shouldn't bike because I can't afford the "right" bike, or the "right" clothes. Biking isn't some exclusive country club event. Where do these people get off passing judgement?
People often ask PTs/trainers/doctors/etc. when the best time to exercise is. Here's the answer: The best time to exercise is the time when you'll actually get it done.
What is the best way to bike then? The way that gets you on your bike.
If you feel like you need all the bells and whistles, fine. If you don't like that stuff, can't afford it, or whatever, then don't. Just do whatever gets you moving! Just ride! And help and encourage your fellow bikers.
We're ALL passing the guy on the couch! Keep going
If people want to imitate famous racers, so be it. Some people love to accessorize and have the best of the best. Great for them!
But if you are one of them, that doesn't make you better than the teenager with the Walmart Special. In fact, nowadays I see so many people staring at screens, whether it be phones, TVs, tablets, etc. At work, home, and most everywhere else. I hate seeing snobby cyclists take the fun out of this hobby for people who can't afford to be so fancy, or who choose not to.
The beautiful thing about bikes is, you only need a bike to ride. It seems that people have forgotten this important fact from their childhood. You want to go see a friend, so what do you do? Hop on your bike! You don't change into special bike designated clothes. How silly! Just Ride! (Although, to be fair I sweat a lot more now that I'm older. So maybe for me, a change of clothes )
Most of us are doing it for our health or recreation. We aren't racing. We aren't sponsored. We're just having fun. So do what's fun. I'm a poor college student. I can't afford pimped out bikes, and I certainly don't have a variety in my garage to choose from. And there are cyclesnobs out there who would argue that I shouldn't bike because I can't afford the "right" bike, or the "right" clothes. Biking isn't some exclusive country club event. Where do these people get off passing judgement?
People often ask PTs/trainers/doctors/etc. when the best time to exercise is. Here's the answer: The best time to exercise is the time when you'll actually get it done.
What is the best way to bike then? The way that gets you on your bike.
If you feel like you need all the bells and whistles, fine. If you don't like that stuff, can't afford it, or whatever, then don't. Just do whatever gets you moving! Just ride! And help and encourage your fellow bikers.
We're ALL passing the guy on the couch! Keep going
#118
Senior Member
I'm a middle age overweight truck driver who's taken up cycling for recreation and fitness, and I'm pleasantly surprised by the college age, skinny jean wearing, IPA micro brew drinking, fixie riddin, Obama voting, no doubt blogging, Hipsters that I've met at a few bike shops where I've shopped. Helpful, solid advice for what I'm trying to accomplish on a bike, not what they are trying to achieve on their bikes. Sure these guys are trying to make a sale and are only practicing good customer service, but I'm still impressed. If you want snooty, go find some BMWMOA riders, you'll find more acceptance riding rice at Sturgis.
Then there's the "steel is real, my LHT is so awesome on that bit of single track on the way to work" (yea so is a Walmart bike)blogger crowd. Just where does one begin?
Then there's the "steel is real, my LHT is so awesome on that bit of single track on the way to work" (yea so is a Walmart bike)blogger crowd. Just where does one begin?
#119
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Are there? I've been riding bikes for fifty years, for recreation, commuting, touring, racing, and just going to the shops. I've never met a cyclist who suggested, either directly or by implication, that people who can't afford expensive kit shouldn't ride bikes.
I've met plenty of racers who are obsessed with their equipment, not always for the right reasons. I've met recreational cyclists who express contempt for those on racing bikes who wear full cycling kit. I've met supposedly cool dudes who sneer at other people's attire, on or off the bike. I've met recumbent evangelists who refuse to believe that anyone can be comfortable on a diamond frame. But I've never, ever, met a cyclist who has believed that ordinary people shouldn't ride ordinary bikes in ordinary clothes.
I've met plenty of racers who are obsessed with their equipment, not always for the right reasons. I've met recreational cyclists who express contempt for those on racing bikes who wear full cycling kit. I've met supposedly cool dudes who sneer at other people's attire, on or off the bike. I've met recumbent evangelists who refuse to believe that anyone can be comfortable on a diamond frame. But I've never, ever, met a cyclist who has believed that ordinary people shouldn't ride ordinary bikes in ordinary clothes.
#120
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Y'all do realize that the OP Butters"the troll"32 left after page 1 right ?
#122
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lovely
Your point about the book Just Ride" is well taken. Just because someone is a poseur is no reason to be snooty.
What is funny is the fact that I have stopped and helped get a fully kitted roadie going again. He had no tools, tubes, patches or pump with him. I on the other hand I have my "bike shop in a trunk pack" on my bike.
Your point about the book Just Ride" is well taken. Just because someone is a poseur is no reason to be snooty.
What is funny is the fact that I have stopped and helped get a fully kitted roadie going again. He had no tools, tubes, patches or pump with him. I on the other hand I have my "bike shop in a trunk pack" on my bike.
#123
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+1
As I indicated before ... methinks this was a "hit and run" trolling thread.
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#124
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I wear levi shorts, a pink cotton t-shirt and push platform pedals with steel-toe work boots on my road bike that isn't strictly that because it has flat bars and MTB drivetrain. Last night, as every Wednesday night, I went on a group ride with 100% riders in standard road clothing and riding full road bikes. Great ride, friendly company and 100% friendly vibes when we stopped for our meal towards the end of the ride.
Snobbery is there if you look for it and are sensitive to it. Camradery is equally available.
Don in Austin
Snobbery is there if you look for it and are sensitive to it. Camradery is equally available.
Don in Austin
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Pondering this thread, I guess it comes down to the fact that the 2% of any group gives the whole group a bad name.