I know there are probably a lot of posts about shaving out there, but I haven't been able to find any like this so far, so I'll pose this question to everyone to see what sort of answers I can find.

When did shaving the legs begin and what started it? Now that it's basically a tradition among recreational and especially competitive cyclists, how did that all come about? I know there are benefits to shaving such as easier cleanup from road rash and an aerodynamic benefit for time trialists. In one cycling group, I heard them say how in races you should watch out for the guys who have dirty bikes or who don't shave thier legs - they say that these guys don't care much because they don't take care of their bike or their body I guess. I personally shave, but just wondered how it all began.

Thanks!