I think a lot of the posts in this thead have proven my point more effectively than I could have dreamed.
In the end, it's just an example of people's pettiness. I do, however, find some of the attitudes disappointing. Look, people-this is a strange thing we all choose to do. Biking is looked down on by much of society. Biking can be hard work and often hurts. It's not a very fast way to get anywhere. In the end, few people understand the desire to immerse one's self in a world of their own, listening to the whir of the running gear, the rythm of breathing, the dull ache that settles in the legs, and above all pushing against one's own limits. I'd think that the fact that we all share this odd passion would make people more welcoming of new folks, or those without a ton of money. I am, I guess, wrong.