Originally Posted by Maj.Taylor
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They're the ones who never learn it's much safer and easier at the front of the race. They never learn the nuances of drafting, although they may have the overall idea. They don't even notice the guys tete en course all too often aren't riding the newest and most expensive frames and bits, but instead are smart enough to scout a course and finishing sprint beforehand, and that's why they win or place.
So instead of having [intentionally] lowered their standards, the mentality of group think [ref. Janus] prevents them from recognizing and addressing standards of training and skills, and those of aesthetics and craftsmanship. ...
...Therefore, Trek sells more bikes, but that does not translate into a lagged production curve of craftsmen producing custom-built frames to replace those Treks. It's not that the custom frame builder can't compete with Trek, but instead all those Trekkies never take that final step up. (Does that make any sense to anyone?)
What does it take to be a consummate rider? Today, more than ever, we see racing on television, we can purchase the same bike, the same clothing, and subscribe to the same training routine as the pros.
Does that take the place of the history of the sport, or the respect afforded it and experience gained from being in the fray of the peloton? Or is it something more undefinable, likened to the special qualities of a fine custom frame?
It seems more riders are caught on the treadmill with keeping up with the latest technology, the newest parts or frame, and focus on that in lieu of the history and heritage of our sport.
What is the essential rider? Who is he? Why sould we even consider him?
I think it is the almagamation of the rider and the bike. In the 1980's we didn't have video or television coverage in the U.S. to see how the pros really looked when they climbed or sprinted. We only had a few photos and words from 'Winning' or 'Bike World' magazine. But even now, with all available resources, we don't just copy the pros, we become inspired from seeing them and it helps us ride our own individual best. And to me those riders are strikingly similar, those that know can recognize them, just as Major Taylor has said. Those that have put it all together. It's the little nuances that make the whole.
Kind of like a classy rider on a classic bike.
Just to add some of my thoughts...
