Originally Posted by
caloso
Am I reading this correctly, that you are asserting that some riders use clipless pedals for aesthetic reasons or as markers of a social group?
Yes. Have you actually ridden in group rides with roadies? There's a number of people who get their tights in a bunch if you aren't wearing the "right" gear. What's the latest - even having a saddlebag is not unfashionable or something? I've seen them get obnoxious about not wearing spandex and wearing mtn biking shorts, having a rack on the bike, or using any shoes that aren't road shoes.