I, too, partook in the constant Trek hate, bashing everyone who had one, equating a love for Trek with fredly, overweight, weekend pastry riders wearing their Tour de Cure jersey, rocking a double size seat bag and cruising around with mirrors on their helmets, screaming CAR UP! CAR BACK! and pointing out every leaf on the roadway.
I got my start in cycling while riding with the local elitist shop, surrounded by guys on 10K Pinarellos, Colnagos, S Works, etc. all with the mentality that one must look good on a bike regardless of their riding skills, almost in line with the velominati rules. Most of this mentality has rubbed off on me over the past couple of years. I turn my nose up at anyone with a seat bag, I'm a firm believer that talking, smiling, and vocally pointing out objects is strictly off limits. One must wear form fitting clothing at all times, race-cut only, signal and announce with your hands, and always stay calm in a group or peloton.
I bought a Trek.
I've lightened up enough to make fun of myself and even though I'm still a 145# elitist bike racer who would rather ride off into the sunset than be seen with anyone smiling or wearing something I don't approve of, I've accepted the fact that my Trek will always be complimented by the fredliest of freds. They sometimes take issue with things like "why is your handlebar so low?" because of my -17 degree stem, or "are you comfortable with your seat that high and no spacers under your stem?" and sometimes I take it as a compliment.
I love my Trek. It's the fastest bike I've ever ridden, and I find it to be very solid and agile.
