I suddenly had a stroke of inspiration to write this. Perhaps it came as I started to notice more and more threads sort of rebelling against the whole 'roadie' culture for one reason or another. I realized a lot of people had misconceptions about who we are and what we love. Since when was 'OCP' a dirty word, and how come hapless new members with triple cranksets receive bad rap time and time again? Why are people intimidated by the way things go around here? What happened to make us 'snobs'? I thought it was time to really rethink what it was all about - this sort of tries to tackle it at its core. I guess I hope you guys like it - do tell if there's anything you'd want changed. With that..

Welcome to the Road Cycling forums!

We’re here to show you all about it, and we hope you really enjoy it here. You’ll learn an amazing amount, and it’s really our wish that you have a good time.

Do take a few moments to get acquainted with the style! We've got all sorts of great members here. Some members are wise, kind, and extremely knowledgeable when it comes to cycling - and they’re always glad to help. Some members have amazing stories that will inspire you and motivate you. Some members cry if they realize their cycling jersey color-clashes with their saddle. Some members ride every day and eat gear sprockets for breakfast (maybe chainrings for dinner).

Secondly, It’s great if you’re brand new. Without questions, this forum would be an empty, empty place, so go ahead and ask them. Most of the time, we’ll be able to provide a good response. Just be ready if you receive five different opinions, or even an opinion that you might not agree with. (Hey, you asked for it.) The key to these forums = respect, patience, and understanding.

You’ll encounter people who really love bikes here. And this comes on many different levels. We’ve gotten threads desperately seeking a way to cover a tiny scratch on the frame, posts asking the best way to clean a derailleur, and even stories of getting caught by the wife with the road bike in the shower (I kid you not). It’s only our hope that you might be able to join us in that same passion for road cycling as well. (Don’t worry, by “that same passion” I don't mean anything to do with the shower. )

Still, don’t be intimidated! The Road Cycling forums belong to everyone, from the weekend warrior who attacks the local hill route every Sunday to the freckle-endowed teen lusting over the bikes at the local shop. The greatest part is that we all get along here, share stories and laugh at the same jokes. Simply put, you’re welcome here if you ride a bike, are interested in bikes, or just want to know what a bike is.

If you haven’t already registered, do sign up. New members rock. If you’ve signed up and are new, then ‘hi’ and welcome! And if you’re coming across this for the first time, then do know that you’re already welcome here - the Road Cycling forums are a great place and you ought to join in.

No drop handlebars required.

Cheers,
The Beef/Will (just another member here.)

Hey The Beef,

You welcome started out well, and I am sure that it had more to do with an early morning after a late night, but I found myself clicking out after the second paragraph...

I am replying to bump it so I can finish it later.

Too long......

Nicely Done! I have been addicted to this forum since day 1. To me, there is no better meditation than riding solo on open road!

Some members cry if they realize their cycling jersey color-clashes with their saddle.

....now hang on.....I never cried....my eyes teared up, yes....but not a full-blown cry!

Interesting read Beef! I agree with your first paragraph, italicized, in a big way. It seems as if new members may take much of what is posted here as a bit snobbish 'now' compared to even a year ago. I think it is nice to help keep things in check for all of us now and then. This isn't just "our" forum (i.e. regular members/posters) but everyone's forum who chooses to become a member and, hopefully, ride (or want to ride) a road bike.

Righto. I thought it might be too long myself, but I couldn't bear to cut any of the paragraphs. It's edited now. I trimmed probably a third of the fat, count it easier on the eyes.

Tell me what you think!

This should be stickied and locked.

Mods??

and what happends if it's the hubby that catches the wife in the shower with her bike?

I always thought being a snob was just part of the roadie culture... That's why I started riding.

Great, now I have to buy a Saab.

He would join in. Everyone knows that a menage a toi is most guys fantasy.

Now wait just a dadburn minute there, beef !!

very righteous , Bro

roadies need make no apologies, itz all cool, do your own thang!
even flowers on jerseys...

The implication of your statements are, they are being read by someone whose never posted here so, I'd include something to indicate that by posting you immediately become part of the growing forum (family).

..rickko..

One part to add (unless I missed it someplace):

Joe runs this forum mostly on his dime. Many of us have contributed but not all. So how about a word on that? Get a red star, etc.

Sheldon

but you surely mean a manage a trois rather then toi as it would mean a one on one in french, if Ill be limited that the latest option, then that explains why id choose the bike to shower with me at the first place!

I'm pretty sure he meant menage a toi...... (toy?)

(Bump.) If any one ever does want to follow through on the sticky idea, I'd love to hear. Tell me if there's anything to add, change, or strike out.

Will

I woke up a little and reread it. Nice job!

I think a quick mention of OCP as a tongue in cheek "organization" might be enlightening to new readers.

I never wear matching bib and jersey!! There, I said it!!

menage a trois not toi... 3 not you

thanks for the welcome writeup! i'm fresh meat here and i really appreciated it. makes me feel warm and fuzzy

nice verbage beef!!