I used to get a little good natured light ribbing from the co-workers with whom I'm on friendliest terms, and I know that in reality they're supportive of my bike commuting. Anyone that mocks me with 'gay' jibes and pinches my rear will be off to the medical center for stitches once they're conscious again. That s##t is assault as far as I'm concerned, and it will result in a smack in the mouth.

One time I was clipped by a car on the way in to work, nothing serious - the bike was OK, but the road rash on the knee was a real bleeder. I casually walked in with blood running down my leg and my white sock was soaked red. Everyone was freaking out and wanting to call me an ambulance, I just said 'so I got hit by a car... meh, no big deal' and got on with my shower and day's work like nothing happened. After that I had a reputation of being a bulletproof crazy-hard mofo.