Originally Posted by Expatriate
I've always felt road bikers had somewhat of an elitist attitude. That changed when I saw how you greeted each and every biker we came across in Newie. It appears you are the exception, rather than the rule. Too bad they let this jerk be in charge.
There is an elitist element (always has been) but things got out of hand in the late 80's. Triathletes came onto the scene around then so there appeared to be a conscious effort by some in the cycling community to isolate/denegrate/discriminate against anyone who wasn't of their choosing. Unfortunately it has often been instilled on the young and impressionable riders who don't know any better.
But there is some hope. Older, crustier guys like me are doing our best to pollute and corrupt it at every opportunity. There's nothing like turning up on race day in a bland Gong Ride shirt from 10 years ago and giving it to the snobby pricks on their carbon/duraace/campy bikes and wearing the latest gear from the fashion houses of Paris and Milan.
Besides, a quick g'day costs nothing.