RASTI.

Link to reference.

There is an apparent clique here on bikeforums.net of "pompous know-it-alls who possess the real truth."

We have been dubbed RASTI for "Real, Avid, Serious, True, and Intelligent Cyclists with all the Right Stuff (as well as the only Right Answers blessed with the RASTI stamp of approval for Conventional Bicycle Wisdom.)" by I-L-T-B, and I would personally like to thank him for giving us such a clear and concise name.

To qualify for membership, you must be of the honest opinion that LBS bikes are of better quality, better construction, and receive better after-the-sale support than mass market bikes purchased and any mass retailer. You must be willing to point out the defects in these mass market bikes as compared to LBS bikes, and be willing to arrogantly profess that the people that work on bikes all day at your average LBS are more qualified to do so than those that assemble and adjust the bikes at mass retailers. You must be willing to conclude that bikes found at an LBS are inherently more safe and reliable than those found at mass retailers.

Further, you must be willing and able to withstand the heat applied by those that equate your criticism of mass market bikes to criticism of those that purchase and ride them.

Since I so self-righteously believe that I have the proper jersey to lead this clique, I submit myself, with photo, for consideration as Chieftain of this clique.



Should my nomination fail, I want to suggest that Rev. Chuck be considered in my stead.