I had a splendid ride last night, enjoying the cool evening air and the delights of the countryside, and exchanging pleasantries with just about everyone I passed along the way. Lots of dogwalkers, joggers, a few children out learning how to ride with their parents, some pensioners chatting to each other as they ambled along, and there were a few roller-bladers out too. We all smiled at each other and exchanged ‘bonsoirs’. It’s heart-warming to know that there’s still a basic decency and friendliness out there in this crazy mixed-up world.
All very friendly then – with the exception of two hugely disdainful guys clad in lycra and sitting (or should that be posturing?) astride very expensive bikes. These two numpties ignored me – and as far as I could tell, ignored everyone else too. God, I despair at the arrogance of these people. As far as I’m concerned, they don’t represent ‘cycling’ at all – on the contrary, I reckon they’re simply a personification of pomposity and intolerance.
About six weeks ago, I was out on the bike when another of these numpties was heading towards me on the other side of the road. I waved at him and shouted ‘bonjour’ – he stared at me, turned his head to one side and spat. What an unpleasant individual. I just gave him two fingers and added a couple of English words to his vocabulary that he won’t find in any standard dictionary.
I bought a pair of cheap Chinese-made trainers about 4 years ago. I wore them inside the house for a few months to break them in – and they’d already cracked before I took them outside. I started to wear them 3 years ago when I started biking again. They’re split and they let the rain in, they’re black with oil and the soles are starting to go. They’re very comfortable though. I’ve already cycled over 10,000 kilometres in them and they’re good for a few more yet. Who needs 'cycling shoes'?
I wear long, lightweight, shower-proof trousers (made by Umbro) when I’m cycling. I've never worn cycling shorts (or any other sort of shorts) – I simply don’t see the need to. Someone posted on a separate thread recently “Cycling shorts are a must”. Well, no, they’re not a ‘must’ at all – what arrant nonsense.
I posted an article on here recently about wearing a snood when I’m cycling, even in the height of summer. The reaction was mostly one of incredulity. I don’t recall anyone remarking that it was an interesting idea – but I really don’t care.
If I come across another cyclist who’s out on the bike enjoying himself and he’s wearing a jumper and jeans, I’ll give him a smile and a wave. But I suspect that most of the lycra-clad cyclists would probably look down their noses at him. Why, for heaven’s sake, would someone behave like that?
I’ve had enough of this arrogance – henceforth I will take pleasure in bursting these bubbles of pomposity wherever I find them, whether they’re in this forum or out in the real world. The fight back has started… and if I’ve already ruffled a few feathers, then so much the better.
