Cycle Snobs

[bonsaibilly]

I've been cycling for six months on and off now and on Thursday I cycled 50 miles for the first time and another 40 today. Today I noticed a few people on road bikes giving me dirty looks because I don't ride a road bike but a hybrid.

Yeah there are lots of them

 

[raleighnut]

Yep, well done on the 50 @CycleD. The other night on my commute home, uphill, I was passed by another roadie. I said "hello mate" and he just ignored me.

I upped the pace (just because I realised I was being lazy) and kept the distance between us, gained, and eventually overtook. I stayed in front of him for the next few miles at a good pace then turned off home. On the way past, he gave me a wave and I waved back.

Next day on Strava there is a comment from this guy saying "thanks for the tow."

So, none of it really matters, we all ride, we're all human.

I'd have 'wheelsucked' him for a while then passed on a downhill and pulled away saying "Thanks for the tow" as I went past.

 

[Hill Wimp]

You are on a bike and riding it, you are a cyclist.

They are on a bike and riding it, they are a cyclist.

You are both cyclists no matter what size, shape, colour or make of your bike.

Just enjoy the ride and think no more of it.

 

[Reynard]

Well done on the 50. Just enjoy riding your bike. I smile and nod to one and all, I also acknowledge cars who wait until there is room to pass. Life is too short to worry.

Likewise me.

 

[Cp40Carl]

Strange how a few more bends in the handlebar can give some people a superiority complex. I'm a roadie by the way, I just prefer riding them. I also need a light bike as I'm lazy and unfit.

 

[SuperHans123]

Suprised as most roadies are staring at one inch of rubber as they try and beat their Strava sectional.

 

[Grant Fondo]

what? Take that hybrid back to Brighthouse my good man, and purchase a ruddy road bike!

 

[raleighnut]

Suprised as most roadies are staring at one inch of rubber as they try and beat their Strava sectional.

That has it's hazards,

View: https://youtu.be/9OrKLGEOVRA

 

[Blue Hills]

How can you be certain they were giving you 'dirty looks'..?? I doubt if they could give a sh1t what you ride. I certainly couldn't.

some roadies can be snobby.
I know this sounds like a stereotype (i'm not usually prone to such things on the north/south issue) but I do genuinely have the impression that very much less so up north.

 

[Blue Hills]

I thought that. I started cycling on a hybrid and noticed cycle snobbery. But they're the same now I'm on a racer.

Some cyclists think they're above everyone else and don't give the customary nod. Others I think are so engrossed in achieving a goal, they don't notice you.

As Vickster said, don't sweat it. Just enjoy the 'camaraderie' from those who do. I nod to everyone, on anything! Even been known to nod to horses!

But do they nod back? Or is it just the nodding donkeys who give you the time of day?

 

[Blue Hills]

Well done on the 50. Just enjoy riding your bike. I smile and nod to one and all, I also acknowledge cars who wait until there is room to pass. Life is too short to worry.

yes, always acknowledge good drivers.
In my experience in London there are as many tosspot cyclists as vehicle drivers. For behind each handlebar/steering wheel sits a human.

 

[Bimble]

@CycleD congrats on the 50. I've got all the roadie gear but still no idea, so if I look like I'm sneering, I'm not, honestly, I'm just quietly dying inside as I struggle to get past the 12mph mark.

ETA: I started out on a clunky old MTB but didn't notice anyone else's glances as I was enjoying myself too much. Same when I upgraded to a hybrid (miles faster). Same when I got an expensive carbon road bike (which is lovely to ride but is still limited by the engine driving it ).

 

[kingrollo]

As in any group - some will be friendly - some not so much - just how folk are - not unique to cyclists

 

[Dogtrousers]

@CycleD Congrats on the 50. Cyclechat has a place specially for people like you:
The 2017 Half Century (50 km or 50 mile) A Month Challenge

Or even, if you fancy doing an extra 10 miles
The 2017 Metric Century (100km) A Month Challenge

And next year, starting in January, you might find yourself considering ...
The 2017 Imperial Century A Month Challenge

 

[Vantage]

In regard to snobby anythings, I like the Ernest Hemmingway quote,

"There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man. True nobility lies in being superior to your former self."

I hate snobs.