I ride around London on my hybrid Trek complete with saddle bag, large water bottle, panniers and MTB pedals in my combat shorts, hoodie and dual certified skate helmet and don't give a flying crap what the rules are and what anyone else thinks of me. I just love to cycle, it is indeed my therapy, and that's all it needs to be :)
Good video. I love road cycling but I don’t follow any dress code! I do ware cycling shorts and top not to be trendy but just because of the comfort. Bike snobs make me laugh because they try to be superior and they are not. Just ride your bike.
Cycling is a marketers wet dream. You have generally a middles class captive audience with plenty of disposable income ready to blast it on the latest obscenely priced gear. For the average Joe/rider, does the latest premium gear cleverly marketed really make a difference when compared to the value kit available at say decathlon..? I don't think it does and I spit in the face of elitism and snobbery. Nice video BTW.
@HuskyOpsTheres a most optimal way to cross the street. And a most optimal way to ride the road bike. This may involve asthetics, the correct clothing for the weather, light helmet ect..
On our regular group ride just before the snow hit,next to me was an older fellow (maybe late 50's)riding with work pants,big black boots and a lumber jacket.I commented to one of my buddies about this riders attire.He informed me that he was an ex pro rider from Italy and he put the hammer down on last weeks ride.I've learned not to judge a book by its cover when it comes to cycling,even if they're wearing Santa Claus boots.
sounds like when i was riding with my beginner buddies on a long straight, and had a guy in full aero kit and a tt bike asked if we wanted to sprint, i was wearing a basketball jersey, and some jogging shorts. lets just say by the time i looked back around, i couldn't even see him anymore.
@@David-vb8tg You mean he wouldn’t let you ride with him.Because you wouldn’t be able to keep up.I welcome someone who has the capability to ride fast.It makes it that much more challenging.But I understand you wouldn’t want it to be known that Santa kicked your butt.
I am an increasingly decrepit cycle tourer and wear what I please- usually a mixture of casual and lycra as I see fit and as is suitable, comfortable and clean. The reaction I get from 'serious' road cyclists when I wave as we encounter (y'know, cyclist solidarity and all that) can range from genuine pleasantries to stony faced disdain with the determining factor being, it seems, the amount they have spent on their 'look'. Not a hard and fast rule, but it is not far off. What pleases me greatly is I often pass them on my 15 year old Dawes (soooo uncool with the roadies) and with panniers that are about as aero as a fridge. If you haven't got the legs then expensive kit won't help you much. I don't get the fashion thing in cycling, just wear what works and push those damn pedals.
Yes, you are right that in cycling the divisions between different attire approach are pushed too far. I guess there will always be the need for people to use clothing or kit to differentiate themselves and feel part of their target group, but should not be too extreme.
Well said sir. If it makes you happy, ride whatever and wear whatever. I'm content riding my 1992 531 21lbs bike with cables that merrily flap around in the wind. If memory serves; the last time I was fashionable was March 1987.
I grew up in a cycling family, I raced, been in board and other positions in clubs, now just ride for fun and lead weekend rides for a local bike shop. Under the saddle bags have always been used in my cycling world other than track racing and crit racing. Unless you are racing with a support car you need to carry tools and supplies. It is amazing what you can fit in a small bag under your seat. Again pros don't nee them, they have team cars. Sunglasses over helmet straps are more aero but mostly this is done in pro cycling so the sponsors that provide the sunglasses are clearly seen by TV cameras. Anyone that has ridden a lot and had glasses come off knows they fall off way more when worn over the straps. Again good for sunglass companies that want you to have them fall off and get run over so you keep buying more. Much of cycling rules for what to wear is pure hype meant to make new riders spend as much as possible. Find a local group of riders that have been doing it for decades and watch what they use and ask why. Chances are what they are doing has very practical evolutionary reasons. The coolest jerseys are not because you spent a lot of money but they are from clubs you are a member of, teams you race or raced for, from events you actually participated in.
I enjoyed this video and found it informative. I wear a decent kit with socks and a road helmet when riding but I don't worry about what other cyclists think anymore. Most of the time I see them only in passing in the opposite direction (or they are passing me). 99% of them are understandably weekend warriors anyway because they hold full time jobs Mon - Fri. Being a retiree that still rides a road bike at almost 70 I ride 4x days a week and sometimes 5x. Cycling saved my life in retirement.
Yup, some guys like that laughhed openly at my Bottechia bike with Tiagra groupset. You know - Tiagra, how can you even touch such utter crap? The whole group equipped with Di2 on brand new Canyons with Bora carbon wheelsets, deep profile. When the ascent kicked in, something around 5-6% i left them so back behind it wasn't even funny but to put it simply - pathetic. When I looked back I couldn't see them anymore :D
I get your sentiment, but no judgement from me how they choose to spend their money, nor their diet choices. Each to their own - it's none of my business.
I have an old school Cannondale with downtube shifters. Riding in a charity ride, the self agrandizing "experts" and "pros" looked at me with that nose in the air superiority while sitting on their $3000 Specialized whizbangs. They werecdecked out in TdF team kit, acting like Peter Sagan or someone. And maintainedvtheir superior arrogance even after I finished 30 minutes ahead of them. This was not an isolated case. It's why I.prefer to ride alone or with my grandson.
I keep the stem caps on to reduce risk of something bending or breaking the end of the Presta valve. I have little and light coloured hair, have no intention of risking a crash so the stupidity of shaved legs is as bad as a sport where you are wearing zero protective clothing where major injury can and will occur. Socks, I like cycling socks as they grip don't bunch up, and cover my sensitive ankles. Helmut: they work, and yes a road helmut is made to leave a clear view when riding on the drops. Glasses, inside helmut straps as that is nuts to have the helmut straps pulling on my glasses! I do remember when I was a little younger, flying by riders with fully kitted carbon bikes, me on my restored 1980 steel frame clunker, street shoes etc.
Oh man, good for you! I really tried to get my 40year old Fuji Flair fixed and upgraded. But, with so many things being wrong, one being, it seems, I needed the upgrade more than it, I became bike shops' cash cow. They so nickeled and dimed me. I ended up conceding to buying a new bike. I guess now I get the disdain from the elites because I just ride merrily along: slowly, smiling, shouting hello and good morning.
The elitists need to remember that it’s just a bike… let people do and wear whatever they want. If you don’t like it, move on, your life is not going to change because someone is not dressed the same way or has different pedals.
I agree, there is a lot of snobbery around certain elements of clothing and equipment. I wear prescription lenses clipped behind my cycling glasses and wear them under my helmet straps for more security, at around 400 quid I can't afford to keep replacing them if my glasses fall off. But, I just stick two fingers up at these snobs, if they get upset that my socks are to short or I have a saddle bag to keep my spares in then, they are pretty sad individuals.
For most of us, we are not supported riders so saddle bag is a must. My jersey pockets are reserved for food, clothing, phone/ID and car keys. I no longer follow the presta cap rule because I like the yellow Continental tube caps. The glasses over the strap rule, while well intentioned technically, is silly especially for prescription glasses wearers. Clothes, I currently buy mostly Sportful and some DHB. In the past, I had to have Assos or Castelli but they are just too expensive now. I used to shave my legs until I got married. Totally unnecessary for an amateur cyclist but as you say, it makes one feel good and, in my opinion, looks good. Helmet is currently an ABUS Stormchaser because just like so many cycling related things, the prices have become ridiculous on premium models and I come from a time when helmets were optional. Sunglasses, (if I happen to wear contact lenses) are cheap safety glasses or something from AliExpress. No need to spend hundreds of dollars on that.
Very entertaining and true. Personally I don't care what people think of my kit and bike. I am out riding and loving every minute. I don't dress like a slob but I don't really care. I know people who have all the nicest kit and can't ride for sh*t! Your riding speaks for itself, NOT what you're wearing. Oh I wear SHORT socks 🤣
Rules! What rules? I’m over 60 and have never followed the crowd or ‘conformed to the norm’ whatever that means. If I want to wear a pink fluffy jumper and socks with sandals on a 10k aero bike I will, not that I own any of the above so there! Rant over 😱😱😱
I think it's all funny as tbh, here riding in the Mendips there's alot of well heeled guys, one time going into the cafe with my son on our £500 tiagra equipped roadies I could hear the guy in the corner with a full works F12 taking the piss, I made a point of saying out loud, ' oh look son, the pros are here , surprised they have time for cake' with that they all shut up and soon left I had a heart attack 9 years ago, and ride to keep myself fit, I'm 52 and in good shape, I don't care about any of this BS beyond that Enjoy what you ride and be happy
And there is so much nonsense loaded onto an activity which is as cheap or expensive as you want to make it. I am 52 also no heart attack phew. But cycling has made me so much fitter than I would have been otherwise mentally as well as physically. Power to your heart. 😁
I must be a rod cyclists worst nightmare! I wear regular sunglasses and under my helmet straps, my dork disk is still on, I have hairy legs, i have a saddlebag, I don't have the top end clothes and I guess I could keep listing things out for eternity that I do wrong! I'm just enjoying getting out on my bike at the moment. It was expensive enough getting that. I can't afford all the other fancy bits!
I only follow “one rule” in riding my roadbike.. 1. You should be happy when you ride your bike.. I’ve been ride my road bike for over 20 years.. Using sandals, 3 layers clothes (sweat absorbing jersey, cotton clothes, covered up with wool hood-jacket), underwear & shorts pants, saddle bag, rim brakes, & off course an alloy road bike.. I don’t even waves to any cyclist i’ve met on the road.. If they rang their bell or say hello, i’ve replied them.. And i always ride alone, there is some freedom i always feel in solitude ride.. And i’ve never stop to some places during my ride (except for the red light, of course i had to stop a while).. I start from my house, straight finish back to my house.. Whether is 30km ride or 130km ride, i always do that.. Do what make you happy & comfortable, Cause riding should be happy, & for exercising your body & soul..
At the beginning of this spring i swapped out my drops for a set of flat bars to make riding in the city a bit easier. about 60% of the riders I had been chatting with last year suddenly couldnt see me anymore. all I did was put different bars on and now Im not one of the gang, so nobody will talk to me.
This year I finally swapped out my Wilier aluminum frame bike for a Fuji SL carbon ( very light for disc brakes 8.3KG). Truth is other than reactivity or climbing, the flat bar multipurpose bike was just as fast. Yet you'll never be "taken " seriously with flat bars.
Due to age and a certain amount of infirmity, I ride a Raleigh Motus, ‘sit up and beg’ ebike. I wear trousers with padded undershorts. (The horror!) I wave to every cyclist and wish them a cheery ‘good day’. I get the most ‘blanks’ from those with the most correct kit. They get a good spray, of invective.
THATS ME LMAOOO bro i show up at the group rides with my '21 carbon tcr with carbon wheels and supacaz everything and then flat pedals and casual clothes lmao
I mean, unless you are serious about it, I don’t get why gear up so much. Imagine showing up to play football with your friends at a local spot suited up like Ronaldo, everything matching, everything Nike, with special socks for grip, the latest turf shoes, everything says “football” so everyone knows you’re not using gym shorts, because that of course would make you less able to practice the sport… (sarcasm)
No, of course I was stressing the point a bit much for some self mockery. But at the same time you would not show up at a football match with basketball shorts or a tennis shirt!
@@fede1275 yeah of course, it makes sense if it’s an actual game, with referees and all, but going out on a Sunday for a ride is not race, and I have played soccer with basketball shoes and shorts plenty of times, also volleyball, gym… but I get your point of the video✌🏻
An interesting and comedic video. I’ve been road cycling for about ten years and I admit I went through the phase of having a sense of superiority over newbie cyclists. Not sure why but it seems to be a thing too! I admire your honesty in the video and will say that you Federico are a very sharply presented cyclist with a cool bike (I am a fellow Canyon owner - they’re the best!) 👌🏼These days I have a gravel bike as the roads are too dangerous for me and I like to get off the beaten track more. I shaved my legs once I think years ago but my wife wasn’t keen and also I realised it wasn’t worth it and actually prefer a hairy leg now ha! The not having valve caps is a funny one as I actually hate it when valves don’t have caps fitted to me it seems really half arsed. I never knew this was a trend to not have them fitted! 🤷🏻♂️ I admit I never really like bike bags or accessories such as saddle bags but I can see their appeal in terms of practicality. I just like a clean simple style on the bike. Less is more. I don’t like the super long socks some riders wear they look silly to me. Also some cyclists are prats who take themselves too seriously. It’s just a fun thing to do riding a bike don’t act as if you’re in the Tour de France when you ride for fun and not professionally! Good video my man 👍🏻
Thank you, I am glad you enjoyed and captured the video spirit. Love my Canyon so much and yes, my wife does not like me in lycra or shaved legs! Can't mention the word Strava in the house either...
@@fede1275 I liked your presentation and you seem as a really nice guy. I basically agree on everything you said but you lost me on leg shaving. You correctly acknowledged that it’s time consuming and pointless, but still doing it😄
Haha my neighbors always catch me riding and say are you getting ready for Tour de France lol and I say hell yeahhhhhhh only been riding for a month🤣 but I do love riding
It's amazing how big of a part money can play in what we find "proper" in an international sport. Many of the things that we consider proper are things that require extra money to be spent. I feel this applies in most areas of life, and it's a barrier to entry that needs to be broken down if we want others to join our community to continue growing, not only our sport, but physical, mental, and environmental health among our world's society.
This is a very connsiderate reflection, I guess the main problem is that some people would not want to open access to everyone and use money to differentiate and exclude. Might be part of our evolutionary path, that is hard to tone down.
I do a lot of commuting and I can't reasonably show up to work in cycling kit, so I'm just in street clothes... I have to admit it has become a guilty pleasure of mine to pass road cyclists in full gear while in work boots and jeans. I am toying with the idea of sticker bombing my commuter and wearing increasingly silly clothes to make it even more humiliating. I don't get to pass all that many, but when I do I like to be ungraceful about it.
Must be a vey strong rider! I am lucky, I commute every day, 14 miles each way, but I can shower and change at work. So for me it is full kit for the commute as well.
I've had similar experiences regarding attire, but more recently with a roadie, I was stopped on the side of the road and as he passed I said hi....he didn't even acknowledge me...but kept looking back to see where I was so I chased him down and overtook him on a climb on a 16kg full suspension MTB, which he was not pleased about. People need to stay humble and have basic manners, there's no need for this separatism and elitism in cycling.
There is a chap that rides his Old Steel bike. Ace in the 1970s made in Australia , he probably is over 68 rides with cargo pants, sandals and a old Helmet. He is the best Rider in the Bunch and can out climb anyone in the group 😊 … oh and he never talks when riding.. unlike the rest😀 He is cool and a great source of knowledge.
I've started dressing down to disassociate myself from the new crisp box fresh brigade. To be honest they look daft . Giving it the elite look and never seem to be enjoying themselves. It's a bike ride Lads not a let's make out I'm a pro racer while cycling around car filled roads . Can understand why car drivers give us all the skunk eye.
Who cares about the "rules"? 1 - We are not pros. 2 - The opinions of strangers mean sweet FA. 3 - Do what you want. Only rule is to treat other cyclists and road users with respect regardless of ability.
I understand, but dress code when playing a specific sport seems to be followed. I am not a pro when I play tennis and yet I don't wear a golf polo or Messi's shirt. I could do what I want, but I like to dress as per the activity. This is considering road cycling as a sport, not just cycling to get from a to b.
I really enjoyed your take on “The Rules” of The Velominati, entertaining and informative with just the right amount of deference tempered with self-deprecating humor…Chapeau! Subscribed!
Just wear what you feel comfortable in wearing when you cycle. No need to wear over-the-top fancy skin-tight clothes. And I do not cycle in the rain or when it's too windy. The person doing this video is very very patronising. Just go out on one's bike when it isn't raining or windy. I actually wear shorts mostly when I am on my bike. Not 'pathetic-looking' lycra. Just enjoy your bike and wear appropriate clothing. It's all down to personal choice and common sense. But enjoy what you are doing. And, yes, I do wear a helmet. And my bike does have lights. Be seen and be safe. Sunglasses are (for me) a no no. They look horrible. And too cool!!!!!! I do wear my own glasses. As they are prescription glasses and not (Jack the lad) sun glasses!!!! Enjoy your cycling.
I re-read the rules recently and they are funny. Those darn Illuminati, they rule the world 😜. I use the same saddle bag and have that jersey . So yes, I follow the rules until they don’t suit me like most riders.
Meanwhile here I am with a saddle back because flats happen and other people get stranded and I’d like to be prepared. Ankle socks because I hate calf socks and a MTB helmet because well…. It’s what I have and it’s worked and saved my head in a bad crash. And glasses under the straps because it’s normal when I wear my Kevlar helmet at work. Still perfectly happy enjoying my rides as a newby and riding has changed my life for the better. Definitely healthier and happier. I’m just glad my wife enjoys it too and supports me in this activity.
I so appreciate this video, and your accent, too! (Uh-oh, am I biased? I so love your country🤗. Ok, back to my comment.) Your video set me free, made me pack away my own sensitivities and personal hangups around biking. I am now reassured to just bike, relax and enjoy the therapeutic exhilaration I get from the activity. Thank you. Grazie.
I ride for my own satisfaction,I stopped caring what anyone thinks years ago,i also stopped saying hi to other cyclists,got sick of stony faces,if you say hi to me I’ll wave back,but ride for yourself and let other people think what they like,
Yeah I might have to stop waving, nodding or saying good morning too because ppl just look at you with stone face or don’t do anything back to you as you did to them. Like does it hurt your time that much lol
Well, I have been riding for 35 + years and think all of the new "elitist" roadies are morons. I ride with short socks which was the preferred height at one point, rim brakes and saddle bags. I look at all these followers of fashion and think they are all a bunch of douchebags because of my experience as a long time road cyclist.
Agree, I can't stand snobby attitudes although I do think some standards should be upheld in all sports. As for the 'elite' roadies, I tend to spot them coming and drop the hammer while totally blanking them.
@@John_Wood_ I live outside NYC and would ride 9w and maybe see 10 cyclists back in the 80s and early 90s. NOW, there are THOUSANDS from NYC dressed up like it is a fashion show on $15k bikes and can barely change a flat let alone fix a broken chain. I have been saying this for years CYCLING IS THE NEW GOLF
@@lazyrider6918 Funny you say that, I stopped to help two such people earlier this year with a mechanical. They had the best bikes, some fancy gps sat nav and expensive clothing. Turned out one of them couldn't even work the shifters and mangled his chain. I managed to get it sorted and get them back moving. But i know dam well the same two would look down their nose at me in normal circumstances. As you say, cycling is the new golf and golf is the new football/soccer from what i'm seeing.
@@John_Wood_ And people ASSUME that if we criticize these morons for riding expensive bikes, we are "JEALOUS". Fact is that I can ride any bike I want but I choose to search for value based on my years of experience knowing what is overkill. I have a Tarmac SL3 Project Black limited edition with Ultegra 10 speed and 50mm extra spoked wheels that weighs 16lb 6 oz with pedals, cages and mount. And I have a Focus Cayo Evo with Di2 and similar wheels complete weight of 17lbs on the dot. 56cm rim brakes. If I were to buy a bike now and get that weight, $10k+. I paid $2190 for my Focus shipped new in box to my house from Jenson USA before all of this price gouging started a few years back. These new bike prices remind me of when Plasma televisions were $20K back in the 90s.
So true. I do have to say, I love the Rapha stuff because it’s just timeless and I think good quality. But it’s so funny when I go to their shop in bibs and a hoodie for example I get these weird looks from employees and other customers.
Roadies who get fixated on fashion and minor details usually don’t have any real skills. There’s a reason MTB riders don’t give a shit about stuff like this.
@@fede1275 I’m in the same boat. It’s a fine line. You need to fit in with the crowd somewhat, but also get my skills up. Some of the dos and dontsare ridiculous though.
Thanks for sharing your take on the humorous Velominati “rules” in your wonderful Italian accent! Like your video, I think the “rules” are observations of the cycling community. Velominati takes these to a satirical extreme. I love them- follow some, don’t follow others as it suits me.
Excellent video chap! I recently did the ride leader course though BritishCycling and the instructor told us to wear eyewear over the straps so that in the event of a crash, the glasses can just fall away from your face whereas if they are under the straps and the glasses break, there is a higher chance of getting broken shards of lenses or frame getting into your eyes due them being held in place with the straps.
I like your honesty, road cyclists can be an ‘unusual’ lot, when out riding I always acknowledge other cyclists either with a wave or a nod, if I’m riding a mountain bike I very rarely get any acknowledgement from ‘Roadies’. Usually very different if I’m riding my road bike. As for shaving legs, I don’t bother now as I’m not racing. If you race, sooner or later you will crash and shaved legs make cleaning the wounds much easier. Enjoyed your frankness, keep the videos coming.
I have been cycling since 1989. First mountain bikes, now single speed road bikes. I have never fit in and frankly don't care. The riding community is diverse and there are many groups that don't give a hoot, but I will say that the cycling community seem to fit into the Sheeple category of groups, but then most "communities" do.
Love this - very funny and informative. I cycle in London, don’t wear the gear - ride a hybrid fx trek4… and often get funny looks from MAMILs. It amuses me 😂
Thank you for the video, while I won’t conform to many of these “rules” it’s good to understand where these rules are coming from. I must say I enjoy it a tad when I blow past someone on the road who’s fully checked all the boxes.
@UC6xvDd0fTASwJcC9PXXWbvw you’re absolutely right, I have no idea what type of ride they are on. Just fun and games. Lol I think we’ve all been there, dead tired at the end of a long ride getting passed by others
..shaving my legs, cleaning my bike, wearing nice clean clothes etc. is not making me a faster nor better rider, but it makes me happy and I actually enjoy the cool aesthetics of cycling.. and yes I also got a 8.500 $ bike with dics ;-)
I wear cheapo stuff from Lidl....plus whatever I plan to wash that day, it's then OK to sweat in it. My wife made me buy a helmet :(....I prefered my jungle hat, it's good sun protection. And my bike is 30 years old. It looks it. My goals are to keep fit: It takes a lot of effort to get 20km /hr out of my old mountain bike. My heart pounds at the sight of a hill. No one waves to me as I struggle on. Most don't even look my way. ...Elitism? Maybe. Or embarassment....I first rode a distance back in 1975 so I myself no longer get embarassed. At 67 activity does not need to be expensive....but it can be....My bike is steel frame. Will the carbon specials still be around in 30years? Having said that you and your bike look cool. It would cost me all my savings to get that look.! Now that would be a challenge for my tight fist !
Thank you and well done on your riding! I have to say steel bikes are heavy, but the feeling is maybe the best, better than carbon and aluminium. I still remember my first Bianchi steel touring bike I had when I was a teen, such a nice ride.
I pedal to keep fit and get some cardio in, I wear what the heck I want to, anyone who doesn’t like it can please themselves 😂 ps, I like my dork disk 👍. Next week I’m getting a uni cycle and a red nose.
about the shaved legs: I had a bad crash once when my legs were not shaven and it was harder to clean the wounds because of it. So there you go, a good excuse for your non cycling friends. 😅
I shaved my legs back when I raced because I was told that I'd lose less skin sliding across the asphalt if I crashed, plus it was easier to apply and remove suntan lotion, liniment, etc. But I hated the prickly feeling when it started to grow back and needed to be shaved again.
Yep I shave my legs because I once crashed going 30 around a corner. Took the first layer of skin off the full left side of my leg all the way down to the ankle. I wish I could post the picture I have. It looks horrific. When I cleaned it all I had to do was run water over it and all the rocks and dirt just washed right off. No scrubbing and no touching at all. It's a good thing because it felt like someone taking a torch to my leg and slowing burning me. If I had hair I think I would have passed out from the pain of scrubbing all the rolled up skin, rocks and blood stuck in the hair. Took almost 800 dollars worth of adaptic burn bandaging lots of zinc oxide and other ointments by the time it was healed.
The "Dork Disc" is actually placed there to prevent the derailleur and/or chain from wedging in the spokes, stopping the wheel, and throwing the rider over the handlebars, over a cliff and to certain and painful death! Although your derailleur may be correctly adjusted now, a fall on the right side may bend the hanger and suddenly your derailleur's in the spokes! Like "Lawyer Lips," they're an addition made to the bicycle, thanks to the personal injury litigation industry! You bike probably has more! Collect all 10!
@@kieranbiggar9683 you're obviously unaware of the pitfalls of consumers using bicycles and the things that befall them. Many a cyclist has indeed died as a result of a mis-adjusted low limit pin, a bent derailleur hanger or even very loose spokes. Sorry but you're just gonna have to trust me. Ever heard of "JRA?" Oh it's a good one. Legions of stories that amuse, surprise, disappoint and disgust!
I'm just here to see all the people who "don't care about what anyone thinks" lay out their lives on a UA-cam channel proving how punk rock they are. Hilarious, folks.
Not sure why it seems to be hard to admit that we care about what others think. It's a natural process and we all want to be recognised part of our target group, small or large, mainstream or niche.
Those "rules" seem to be more humorous than anything. I take it as a jab at snobs. Either way, it should be fun. I'd rather ride alone than hang out with superficial snobs. I mostly ride alone anyway. I like not having to deal with people 🙃
Thank you for great video, it is ironic, hilarious and serious at the same time. Regarding your bike - it is classically stylish today to have high level rim brakes ;)
This is so funny and so true... when I started road cycling on my cyclocross bike, I thought I’d get a proper cycling jersey, and one of the ones I liked most was the world champion by Santini I was clueless about the reactions I’d get, I loved the top as I wanted something simple, and this fitted the criteria for me. I though it was akin to wearing a cup winning football top, but oh my god was I wrong.! On one of the first rides I passed a group going the other way, and they all stared at me with a look of disgust. It was as if I’d committed some war crime rather than a Fashion Faux Pas... one did manage to reply my friendly wave 👋 so good on him for that
I know, I still remember the look i got when I walked into the best bike shop in London with my dork disk, presta caps and not wearing cycling kit. It should not be that way though, but I guess knowledge it's useful and keep using that Santini jersey!
Of course. At the same time I hate not knowing the style rules for a specific social event. At my first serious job I showed up with a suit in brown shoes and black belt. The senior guy told me you have to always match the shoes and the belt, making me feel so bad. I wish I had known in advance.
This is a great and thoughtful video. There are some rules that seem to be rooted only in mystery . . . others actually have a meaningful foundation, especially for faster riders. Roadies don't use valve caps and nuts to make tire changing faster . . . an experienced roadie can change a flat in 2-3 minutes, which helps everyone's legs stay loose and warm (assuming there are others on the ride). The stems of your glasses should be outside your helmet straps so your helmet straps are snug on your head, not your head with sunglasses. It's also easier to remove and replace your sunglasses with the stems over the straps. Shaved legs are easier to clean and bandage after a crash (and save 10-20 watts at higher speeds). I'm not defending elitism though . . . the cyclists I like to ride with are fast and also inclusive and encouraging. No need for casual cyclists to follow all the "rules" . . . but it's good to understand the ones that actually help (especially the safety ones . . . like helmet straps under sunglasses).
I would ride in a t-shirt and shorts with flip flops and no helmet when I first started, you can imagine what everyone thought of me when I passed them in their skin suits
It’s satirical; but it’s not to some. The group (surprisingly large) that consider themselves “true roadies” have an air of superiority and sneer at those they believe don’t fit their stringent standards. In reality they are (often) overblown out of shape muppets with very expensive bikes. “Punk roadie” is the way. Wear what you want, ride what you want and probably put most in that “bellend” category to shame when out on the road. Just my (probably) unpopular opinion. Ps; You and your bike look really well put together. Sharp👍
Thank you Simon, I am trying a third way of keeping the standards and at the same time laugh at myself. If I look serious is only because the uphill effort is making me contorting my face...
Yeah, I prefer a saddlebag as well. Stuffing a spare tube, inflator and levers in a jersey pocket may look more professional, but it's uncomfortable and time consuming. My biggest gripe is the rider on the triathlon bike who insists on riding on their aerobars while in a paceline.
I went fluorescent orange on my helmet, gilet and gloves. Definitely not as “cool” as all black, but I can definitely tell the difference in traffic. I’m more seen by motorists, no doubt. As a fashionista I’m planning to swap my bike shoe laces to orange too.
Each of my two bikes, road and MTB, has a saddlebag with the right sized tube, a patch kit, a multi tool, and a few other odds and ends. And a pump on the downtube bottle mount. So that stuff is always there when I hop on either bike. It's just easier. And then I don't have a bunch of bulky and/or sharp stuff in my jersey pockets. It's one less thing to think about and one less impediment to getting on my bikes as often as I can.
Really good video. I really couldn’t give a phuck about what other people think. I have purple anodized valve caps that match the bar end bolt, that match the bolts that hold my bottle cages on. Never shaved legs, never will. Small bullet bag on saddle as I don’t have 9 team mates to carry me. Socks, yes I do follow convention. Glasses under strap, they cost too much to lose 😎
I never follow rules, regulations, codes, policies, statutes, legislation, acts, edicts, mandates, or fashion. I do what I like, provided I do not harm anyone.
Definitely cover your presta and keep the lower screw loose ish from rim or if you do get a puncture I've seen my tyre spin on my rom ripping the presa clean off the tube bit that was before tubeless but you guys still run them pink tpu things do applies! Get a clear presta valve cover that goes further down and seals any air from knocking out the valve if when comes loose on uk roads as I've experienced! As for shaven legs that should be banned lol
Don't copy other's rules and make a prat of yourself with the snobbish way these guys are getting a name for themselves do what you feel is comfa and safe for you! Maybe the leg shaving is a bit ott there, but hey its 2024 worlds mad just now anyway
imagine a basketball player getting upset at you because youre not wearing jordans. imagine a soccer player getting mad because youre not wearing adidas. imagine giving a f*** what anyone else thinks about how you live your life. if youre a killer rider, then break some rules on purpose and dust those fools.
I know I'm stressing the concept here, but dress codes still are followed. I understand your examples, but imagine showing up at the basketball game with a golf polo or in rugby shirt? The reality is we all want to feel part of a group, smaller or larger depending on the circumstances. If we really could not care about the others you would go around with batman bottoms, a robe and a pan as hat. Some do, but are considered crazy.
@@fede1275 while this is true, people definitely still play ball in polo t's, and a jersey is a jersey. i could understand if youre in a competition or something official but if youre just going for a casual ride with companions it shouldnt matter if youre in a skin tight bike fit or white tee-shirt and some swim trunks over some cycling shorts (that was basically me yesterday). im riding with trail-glove 6's and flat pedals too. as long as your comfortable and enjoying yourself it really shouldnt matter. if theyre uncomfortable because of something they cannot control and have no say in, then they have personal issues and should get over it and focus on their own performance. sure, in some cases you should 'look the part' but it isnt written in stone that if youre gonna ride a bike you have to conform to predetermined set of rules. basically, do what makes YOU happy, and if others dont like it they dont deserve your company. to be clear though, i understand if youre in a group of cyclists that are trying to train and better their abilities, health and fitness, with an air of competition amongst eachothers. if youre dressed too inappropriately you can stick out like a sore thumb. my point was simply was that if someone is grilling you over your personal choices then they arent someone worth spending time with. a real friend says 'you look crazy but oh well lets gooooo'
@@pookienumnums I'm actually agreeing with you, I am enjoying the dress code and I follow it (or not sometimes) because for me it's part of the enjoyment. I don't look down on anyone and I laugh at myself, trying to be stylish but not snob. I know it might look I'm pretentious, but was not my aim 😄
Right, no. Just ride a bicycle. The American mentality is the pits, anyone who rides a bike which is not the latest model gets ridiculed. And that in a country that has absolutely no cycling infrastructure. English speaking riders... yeah, NO.
Wearing your glasses on the outside of the strap seems to make sense to me, because then they are not in the way of the functionality of the helmet. If you fall, and have the glasses under the strap, that could cause them to cut into your skin when the strap tightens.
The only thing I make sure I use is bib shorts after that it depends what I have clean. I find price of cycling gear too expensive, I try to look for sales. I never follow these types of files as I’m too old to care, just ride
Used to think these rules were important when I was young and racing my bike.....Now that I´m old, I really don´t care anymore, just ride your bike and enjoy it while you still can!!!!
@@fede1275 and sub rules created by bike marketing department. Like different styles of MTB helmet - XC, trail, trail with attachable chin guard, full face helmet…🤪
Best way to circumvent dealing with cycling elitism out on the road is to ride past them. Or hit the dirt right next to them. Give them a little wave as you have the time of your life and watch their bibs scrunch up so tight their eyes water. But on a serious note, I’m blessed that the cyclists around me are all pretty kind. Even sometimes say “good morning” when they pass humble ol’ me.
In wash. D.c. there are all these folks on rentals and they have no sense of ANYTHING, they don't call out when they pass, they don't acknowledge other riders, they wooble all over the road. Etc.
If your going to be doing something often then your going to be needing/wanting something to wear that is comfortable and doesn't hold you back. This talk about people wearing work pants and boots is silly. Wearing that on a road bike is simply uncomfortable and impractical. So if your gonna buy something why wouldn't buy something that looks good and performs well? There is no point to ride around looking like the only reason you're on the bike is because you got nailed for drunk driving.
About socks: Without a height limit, a rider could wear stockings up to the shorts or even tights. So riders could in effect wear skin suits. The UCI doesn't want road racers to ride in skin suits, hence the rule.
I wear woolly boolie or wool hiking socks because my feet are always cold. Also, I wear five ten Freerider pro and not cleats because if I have to walk home I need flat shoes 😊
Just pedal and let it be therapy. Everything else is secondary.
Except offering help if a cyclist is stopped on the side of the road and saying hello when crossing another rider. That's no excuse.
@@liceofrances 😆 very true. Then you take a break, but then pedal again.
I ride around London on my hybrid Trek complete with saddle bag, large water bottle, panniers and MTB pedals in my combat shorts, hoodie and dual certified skate helmet and don't give a flying crap what the rules are and what anyone else thinks of me.
I just love to cycle, it is indeed my therapy, and that's all it needs to be :)
Good video. I love road cycling but I don’t follow any dress code! I do ware cycling shorts and top not to be trendy but just because of the comfort. Bike snobs make me laugh because they try to be superior and they are not. Just ride your bike.
Well you still wanna make sure to get where you’re going.
If someone is out riding their bike enjoying life then that’s good enough for me.
I don’t enjoy life but I do love bikes and cycling. So is nice to enjoy that and see other people enjoy it too.
It's sounds like you don't follow the rules. ;)
Rules are meant to be broken from time to time. That’s why I like gravel riding.
Main thing is that the cycle is road legal - unlike this bike- just hope he doesn't ride that bike on uk roads!!
Completely agree with you.....these rules are trivial .......
Cycling is a marketers wet dream. You have generally a middles class captive audience with plenty of disposable income ready to blast it on the latest obscenely priced gear. For the average Joe/rider, does the latest premium gear cleverly marketed really make a difference when compared to the value kit available at say decathlon..? I don't think it does and I spit in the face of elitism and snobbery. Nice video BTW.
Here I tried to understand why it is so addictive and then people pay so much money for kit and upgrades ua-cam.com/video/2gj1Shrtvjg/v-deo.html
I can’t afford brands like Rapha, Castelli and the others. Lycra is Lycra. All i need is a comfortable pair of bibs and nobody cares what brand it is.
@@raymott6933 Well said Ray and this is all before you get to a person's skin colour. I'm a man of colour and I'd love to see more of us in cycling.
I'm also trying to be reasonable with the spending, good value to performance for me is dhb and VanRysel from Decathlon.
Is cycling the 3rd biggest sport in Italy after football and motorsport?
Some people can’t survive without rules and regulations, others are free.
Deep quote
Or just broke and can't afford the proper stuff.
@HuskyOps the companies trying to sell you things get to tell you what’s proper
Cult dynamics 101
@HuskyOpsTheres a most optimal way to cross the street. And a most optimal way to ride the road bike. This may involve asthetics, the correct clothing for the weather, light helmet ect..
My #1 rule is don't follow others' rules. Follow the rules which suit you.
Just do what you like, as long as it doesn't break any laws or hurt anyone else.
This is brilliant! We’re so obsessed with the look and yet we all look ridiculous to non-cyclists! Great vid Federico!
So true!
On our regular group ride just before the snow hit,next to me was an older fellow (maybe late 50's)riding with work pants,big black boots and a lumber jacket.I commented to one of my buddies about this riders attire.He informed me that he was an ex pro rider from Italy and he put the hammer down on last weeks ride.I've learned not to judge a book by its cover when it comes to cycling,even if they're wearing Santa Claus boots.
Awesome story ! Love it !
Sounds like it could be me... Except the ex-pro and putting the hammer down 😂😂😂
sounds like when i was riding with my beginner buddies on a long straight, and had a guy in full aero kit and a tt bike asked if we wanted to sprint, i was wearing a basketball jersey, and some jogging shorts. lets just say by the time i looked back around, i couldn't even see him anymore.
We wouldn't let a guy like this ride with us. Pro or not.
@@David-vb8tg You mean he wouldn’t let you ride with him.Because you wouldn’t be able to keep up.I welcome someone who has the capability to ride fast.It makes it that much more challenging.But I understand you wouldn’t want it to be known that Santa kicked your butt.
I am an increasingly decrepit cycle tourer and wear what I please- usually a mixture of casual and lycra as I see fit and as is suitable, comfortable and clean. The reaction I get from 'serious' road cyclists when I wave as we encounter (y'know, cyclist solidarity and all that) can range from genuine pleasantries to stony faced disdain with the determining factor being, it seems, the amount they have spent on their 'look'. Not a hard and fast rule, but it is not far off. What pleases me greatly is I often pass them on my 15 year old Dawes (soooo uncool with the roadies) and with panniers that are about as aero as a fridge. If you haven't got the legs then expensive kit won't help you much. I don't get the fashion thing in cycling, just wear what works and push those damn pedals.
Yes, you are right that in cycling the divisions between different attire approach are pushed too far. I guess there will always be the need for people to use clothing or kit to differentiate themselves and feel part of their target group, but should not be too extreme.
Well said sir. If it makes you happy, ride whatever and wear whatever. I'm content riding my 1992 531 21lbs bike with cables that merrily flap around in the wind. If memory serves; the last time I was fashionable was March 1987.
Well said Owen👍
I Like to Look good while cycling doesnt mean im to good to great people everyone on a Bike is a pleasure
@@fede1275 also different cycling groups, roadies, mtb'ers, hipster fixies etc..
I grew up in a cycling family, I raced, been in board and other positions in clubs, now just ride for fun and lead weekend rides for a local bike shop. Under the saddle bags have always been used in my cycling world other than track racing and crit racing. Unless you are racing with a support car you need to carry tools and supplies. It is amazing what you can fit in a small bag under your seat. Again pros don't nee them, they have team cars. Sunglasses over helmet straps are more aero but mostly this is done in pro cycling so the sponsors that provide the sunglasses are clearly seen by TV cameras. Anyone that has ridden a lot and had glasses come off knows they fall off way more when worn over the straps. Again good for sunglass companies that want you to have them fall off and get run over so you keep buying more. Much of cycling rules for what to wear is pure hype meant to make new riders spend as much as possible. Find a local group of riders that have been doing it for decades and watch what they use and ask why. Chances are what they are doing has very practical evolutionary reasons. The coolest jerseys are not because you spent a lot of money but they are from clubs you are a member of, teams you race or raced for, from events you actually participated in.
Hello, can you tell me what Brevet Cycling is?
I enjoyed this video and found it informative. I wear a decent kit with socks and a road helmet when riding but I don't worry about what other cyclists think anymore. Most of the time I see them only in passing in the opposite direction (or they are passing me). 99% of them are understandably weekend warriors anyway because they hold full time jobs Mon - Fri. Being a retiree that still rides a road bike at almost 70 I ride 4x days a week and sometimes 5x. Cycling saved my life in retirement.
Wow, really well done with your cycling!!
Cycling has saved my life before retirement! It's important to see our joint heritage, not differences. Pedal on 😁 .
@@guyroebuck8510 👍👍
Let's not forget about the guys riding around with 10,000 dollars worth of shit and a big pot belly acting elitist. Those guys crack me up.
Yup, some guys like that laughhed openly at my Bottechia bike with Tiagra groupset. You know - Tiagra, how can you even touch such utter crap? The whole group equipped with Di2 on brand new Canyons with Bora carbon wheelsets, deep profile. When the ascent kicked in, something around 5-6% i left them so back behind it wasn't even funny but to put it simply - pathetic. When I looked back I couldn't see them anymore :D
@@michadebicki6534 This is the way
I am happy riding my £600 Merida with Sora as well btw
I get your sentiment, but no judgement from me how they choose to spend their money, nor their diet choices. Each to their own - it's none of my business.
I have an old school Cannondale with downtube shifters. Riding in a charity ride, the self agrandizing "experts" and "pros" looked at me with that nose in the air superiority while sitting on their $3000 Specialized whizbangs. They werecdecked out in TdF team kit, acting like Peter Sagan or someone. And maintainedvtheir superior arrogance even after I finished 30 minutes ahead of them. This was not an isolated case. It's why I.prefer to ride alone or with my grandson.
I want to see the video about what Italians wear when taking out the bins. I can relate to this and I probably need to up my game
🤣🤣🇮🇹🇮🇹
Think I must have a bit of Italian in me too 😂
All you need is a truly beautiful beard 🧔🏻
I have been known to shower and clean my teeth before venturing out with the bins on a Wednesday morning.
I keep the stem caps on to reduce risk of something bending or breaking the end of the Presta valve. I have little and light coloured hair, have no intention of risking a crash so the stupidity of shaved legs is as bad as a sport where you are wearing zero protective clothing where major injury can and will occur. Socks, I like cycling socks as they grip don't bunch up, and cover my sensitive ankles. Helmut: they work, and yes a road helmut is made to leave a clear view when riding on the drops. Glasses, inside helmut straps as that is nuts to have the helmut straps pulling on my glasses! I do remember when I was a little younger, flying by riders with fully kitted carbon bikes, me on my restored 1980 steel frame clunker, street shoes etc.
🤣🤣🤣🤡🤡🤡
Oh man, good for you! I really tried to get my 40year old Fuji Flair fixed and upgraded. But, with so many things being wrong, one being, it seems, I needed the upgrade more than it, I became bike shops' cash cow. They so nickeled and dimed me. I ended up conceding to buying a new bike. I guess now I get the disdain from the elites because I just ride merrily along: slowly, smiling, shouting hello and good morning.
That is crazy to not use the valve cap. Through winter? 😲
The elitists need to remember that it’s just a bike… let people do and wear whatever they want. If you don’t like it, move on, your life is not going to change because someone is not dressed the same way or has different pedals.
I agree, there is a lot of snobbery around certain elements of clothing and equipment. I wear prescription lenses clipped behind my cycling glasses and wear them under my helmet straps for more security, at around 400 quid I can't afford to keep replacing them if my glasses fall off. But, I just stick two fingers up at these snobs, if they get upset that my socks are to short or I have a saddle bag to keep my spares in then, they are pretty sad individuals.
For most of us, we are not supported riders so saddle bag is a must. My jersey pockets are reserved for food, clothing, phone/ID and car keys. I no longer follow the presta cap rule because I like the yellow Continental tube caps. The glasses over the strap rule, while well intentioned technically, is silly especially for prescription glasses wearers. Clothes, I currently buy mostly Sportful and some DHB. In the past, I had to have Assos or Castelli but they are just too expensive now. I used to shave my legs until I got married. Totally unnecessary for an amateur cyclist but as you say, it makes one feel good and, in my opinion, looks good. Helmet is currently an ABUS Stormchaser because just like so many cycling related things, the prices have become ridiculous on premium models and I come from a time when helmets were optional. Sunglasses, (if I happen to wear contact lenses) are cheap safety glasses or something from AliExpress. No need to spend hundreds of dollars on that.
The advantage I've found to shaving legs (although I still haven't done it) is that applying sunscreen is far easier without hair.
Except that I find that with really hairy legs you don't even need sunscreen.
Better for grubby conditions too the dirt comes off second wash 😏
Very entertaining and true. Personally I don't care what people think of my kit and bike. I am out riding and loving every minute. I don't dress like a slob but I don't really care. I know people who have all the nicest kit and can't ride for sh*t! Your riding speaks for itself, NOT what you're wearing. Oh I wear SHORT socks 🤣
Well done and good for you. Now please let the fashion police do their job and surrender yourself 😂
I wore some short socks once and a dude said are you a triathlete 😂
I wear no socks coz... triathlete 🤣🤣🤣
Then triathletes have even stricter rules!
@@tomrachellesfirstdance7843 this hella cracked me up
Rules! What rules? I’m over 60 and have never followed the crowd or ‘conformed to the norm’ whatever that means. If I want to wear a pink fluffy jumper and socks with sandals on a 10k aero bike I will, not that I own any of the above so there! Rant over 😱😱😱
That's great, I would not be able to do the same, somehow I like to conform to the current style.
@@fede1275 try it, you would be surprised how liberating it is! 😎😎😎
I couldn't have said it better!
Be individual not a clone👍
I think it's all funny as tbh, here riding in the Mendips there's alot of well heeled guys, one time going into the cafe with my son on our £500 tiagra equipped roadies I could hear the guy in the corner with a full works F12 taking the piss, I made a point of saying out loud, ' oh look son, the pros are here , surprised they have time for cake' with that they all shut up and soon left
I had a heart attack 9 years ago, and ride to keep myself fit, I'm 52 and in good shape, I don't care about any of this BS beyond that
Enjoy what you ride and be happy
Well done with the recovery, great you are riding and keeping fit! That's the main thing, the rest is allowed only if it is funny and not stressful.
And there is so much nonsense loaded onto an activity which is as cheap or expensive as you want to make it. I am 52 also no heart attack phew. But cycling has made me so much fitter than I would have been otherwise mentally as well as physically. Power to your heart. 😁
The anally serious cyclists in my area never have a bell fitted to their handlebar. If you are lucky they will say "passing" just as they woosh by.
I must be a rod cyclists worst nightmare! I wear regular sunglasses and under my helmet straps, my dork disk is still on, I have hairy legs, i have a saddlebag, I don't have the top end clothes and I guess I could keep listing things out for eternity that I do wrong!
I'm just enjoying getting out on my bike at the moment. It was expensive enough getting that. I can't afford all the other fancy bits!
That's great, doing it on purpose it's even more fun 🤣
Prices are going crazy, I am trying to stay reasonable, but it is difficult
I think I'm worse than you mate. I wear trainers on clipless pedals!
@@KilliKonKarnage they are slippery with trainers!
Wearing glasses under the straps is a safety issue.
I only follow “one rule” in riding my roadbike..
1. You should be happy when you ride your bike..
I’ve been ride my road bike for over 20 years..
Using sandals, 3 layers clothes (sweat absorbing jersey, cotton clothes, covered up with wool hood-jacket), underwear & shorts pants, saddle bag, rim brakes, & off course an alloy road bike..
I don’t even waves to any cyclist i’ve met on the road..
If they rang their bell or say hello, i’ve replied them..
And i always ride alone, there is some freedom i always feel in solitude ride..
And i’ve never stop to some places during my ride (except for the red light, of course i had to stop a while)..
I start from my house, straight finish back to my house..
Whether is 30km ride or 130km ride, i always do that..
Do what make you happy & comfortable,
Cause riding should be happy, & for exercising your body & soul..
Very well pictured
@@fede1275 thank you..
You too must happy when riding your bike, that’s the key..
At the beginning of this spring i swapped out my drops for a set of flat bars to make riding in the city a bit easier. about 60% of the riders I had been chatting with last year suddenly couldnt see me anymore. all I did was put different bars on and now Im not one of the gang, so nobody will talk to me.
I know, it should not be like that. I believe it's the evolution fault and the need for us to find groups to adhere to.
Well you’re better off without them then!
Wow, all just because your bike now looks like a hybrid exercise bike. Wow!! Shame on them!
This year I finally swapped out my Wilier aluminum frame bike for a Fuji SL carbon ( very light for disc brakes 8.3KG). Truth is other than reactivity or climbing, the flat bar multipurpose bike was just as fast. Yet you'll never be "taken " seriously with flat bars.
What would Hells Angels say if you turned up on a Honda 😂🤣
Due to age and a certain amount of infirmity, I ride a Raleigh Motus, ‘sit up and beg’ ebike. I wear trousers with padded undershorts. (The horror!) I wave to every cyclist and wish them a cheery ‘good day’. I get the most ‘blanks’ from those with the most correct kit. They get a good spray, of invective.
TBF Freds are usually like that to each other as well unless they’re friends.
@@kishascape, please explain, ‘Fred’?
@@johnnunn8688 Hi John, FRED aka Fkn Rides Every Day.
Try putting flat MTB pedals on your roadbike. You wont believe the reactions.
Cardinal sin 😂😂
THATS ME LMAOOO bro i show up at the group rides with my '21 carbon tcr with carbon wheels and supacaz everything and then flat pedals and casual clothes lmao
@@alen-commentnazi8774 LOL!! Perfect 😂
Following a close 2nd is SPD pedals 🤣
I’ve rocked Xtr spds on all my road bikes…fuck whatever people think. They’re faster and safer for urban riding and I like to be able to walk around
I mean, unless you are serious about it, I don’t get why gear up so much. Imagine showing up to play football with your friends at a local spot suited up like Ronaldo, everything matching, everything Nike, with special socks for grip, the latest turf shoes, everything says “football” so everyone knows you’re not using gym shorts, because that of course would make you less able to practice the sport… (sarcasm)
No, of course I was stressing the point a bit much for some self mockery. But at the same time you would not show up at a football match with basketball shorts or a tennis shirt!
@@fede1275 yeah of course, it makes sense if it’s an actual game, with referees and all, but going out on a Sunday for a ride is not race, and I have played soccer with basketball shoes and shorts plenty of times, also volleyball, gym… but I get your point of the video✌🏻
@@P-Sides absolutely mate
An interesting and comedic video. I’ve been road cycling for about ten years and I admit I went through the phase of having a sense of superiority over newbie cyclists. Not sure why but it seems to be a thing too! I admire your honesty in the video and will say that you Federico are a very sharply presented cyclist with a cool bike (I am a fellow Canyon owner - they’re the best!) 👌🏼These days I have a gravel bike as the roads are too dangerous for me and I like to get off the beaten track more. I shaved my legs once I think years ago but my wife wasn’t keen and also I realised it wasn’t worth it and actually prefer a hairy leg now ha! The not having valve caps is a funny one as I actually hate it when valves don’t have caps fitted to me it seems really half arsed. I never knew this was a trend to not have them fitted! 🤷🏻♂️ I admit I never really like bike bags or accessories such as saddle bags but I can see their appeal in terms of practicality. I just like a clean simple style on the bike. Less is more. I don’t like the super long socks some riders wear they look silly to me. Also some cyclists are prats who take themselves too seriously. It’s just a fun thing to do riding a bike don’t act as if you’re in the Tour de France when you ride for fun and not professionally! Good video my man 👍🏻
Thank you, I am glad you enjoyed and captured the video spirit. Love my Canyon so much and yes, my wife does not like me in lycra or shaved legs! Can't mention the word Strava in the house either...
@@fede1275 I liked your presentation and you seem as a really nice guy. I basically agree on everything you said but you lost me on leg shaving. You correctly acknowledged that it’s time consuming and pointless, but still doing it😄
Yes, one of those things where you like the end result, but everyone knows the process you had to go through and it is embarrassing. But I still do!
Haha my neighbors always catch me riding and say are you getting ready for Tour de France lol and I say hell yeahhhhhhh only been riding for a month🤣 but I do love riding
@@RandyJ you ARE the Tour the France when you are our riding!!
It's amazing how big of a part money can play in what we find "proper" in an international sport. Many of the things that we consider proper are things that require extra money to be spent. I feel this applies in most areas of life, and it's a barrier to entry that needs to be broken down if we want others to join our community to continue growing, not only our sport, but physical, mental, and environmental health among our world's society.
This is a very connsiderate reflection, I guess the main problem is that some people would not want to open access to everyone and use money to differentiate and exclude. Might be part of our evolutionary path, that is hard to tone down.
I have 1 helmet (with a peak), used when on road or mountain bike, also always wear short ankle socks.
Wear what you like.
Absolutely!
I do a lot of commuting and I can't reasonably show up to work in cycling kit, so I'm just in street clothes... I have to admit it has become a guilty pleasure of mine to pass road cyclists in full gear while in work boots and jeans. I am toying with the idea of sticker bombing my commuter and wearing increasingly silly clothes to make it even more humiliating.
I don't get to pass all that many, but when I do I like to be ungraceful about it.
Must be a vey strong rider! I am lucky, I commute every day, 14 miles each way, but I can shower and change at work. So for me it is full kit for the commute as well.
Haha good post. I’m not taking my road bike to work I only do that with my MTB
@Fagg Gugel n U Tjub I know, but sometimes life is better with these small things.
I've had similar experiences regarding attire, but more recently with a roadie, I was stopped on the side of the road and as he passed I said hi....he didn't even acknowledge me...but kept looking back to see where I was so I chased him down and overtook him on a climb on a 16kg full suspension MTB, which he was not pleased about. People need to stay humble and have basic manners, there's no need for this separatism and elitism in cycling.
@@mrnobody9821 you are right, always stay humble!
There is a chap that rides his Old Steel bike. Ace in the 1970s made in Australia , he probably is over 68 rides with cargo pants, sandals and a old Helmet. He is the best Rider in the Bunch and can out climb anyone in the group 😊 … oh and he never talks when riding.. unlike the rest😀 He is cool and a great source of knowledge.
I had met some of those guys… some of them are on the juice :-D
I've started dressing down to disassociate myself from the new crisp box fresh brigade. To be honest they look daft . Giving it the elite look and never seem to be enjoying themselves. It's a bike ride Lads not a let's make out I'm a pro racer while cycling around car filled roads . Can understand why car drivers give us all the skunk eye.
I hate myself when I am driving
Who cares about the "rules"?
1 - We are not pros.
2 - The opinions of strangers mean sweet FA.
3 - Do what you want.
Only rule is to treat other cyclists and road users with respect regardless of ability.
I understand, but dress code when playing a specific sport seems to be followed. I am not a pro when I play tennis and yet I don't wear a golf polo or Messi's shirt. I could do what I want, but I like to dress as per the activity. This is considering road cycling as a sport, not just cycling to get from a to b.
I really enjoyed your take on “The Rules” of The Velominati, entertaining and informative with just the right amount of deference tempered with self-deprecating humor…Chapeau! Subscribed!
You said it very well! Thank you
Just wear what you feel comfortable in wearing when you cycle. No need to wear over-the-top fancy skin-tight clothes. And I do not cycle in the rain or when it's too windy. The person doing this video is very very patronising. Just go out on one's bike when it isn't raining or windy. I actually wear shorts mostly when I am on my bike. Not 'pathetic-looking' lycra. Just enjoy your bike and wear appropriate clothing. It's all down to personal choice and common sense. But enjoy what you are doing. And, yes, I do wear a helmet. And my bike does have lights. Be seen and be safe. Sunglasses are (for me) a no no. They look horrible. And too cool!!!!!! I do wear my own glasses. As they are prescription glasses and not (Jack the lad) sun glasses!!!! Enjoy your cycling.
A lot of people I ride with on the weekend love to wear all the pro gear and talk about carbon components.
But there 4 stone over weight
I re-read the rules recently and they are funny. Those darn Illuminati, they rule the world 😜. I use the same saddle bag and have that jersey . So yes, I follow the rules until they don’t suit me like most riders.
Yes, that's my approach as well
Meanwhile here I am with a saddle back because flats happen and other people get stranded and I’d like to be prepared. Ankle socks because I hate calf socks and a MTB helmet because well…. It’s what I have and it’s worked and saved my head in a bad crash. And glasses under the straps because it’s normal when I wear my Kevlar helmet at work. Still perfectly happy enjoying my rides as a newby and riding has changed my life for the better. Definitely healthier and happier. I’m just glad my wife enjoys it too and supports me in this activity.
Well done then!! I can sense the attention to details is there, just the other way around!!
As for wardrobe, I like to have my colors matching. But, is there some sort of rhyme or reason? No.
I so appreciate this video, and your accent, too! (Uh-oh, am I biased? I so love your country🤗. Ok, back to my comment.) Your video set me free, made me pack away my own sensitivities and personal hangups around biking. I am now reassured to just bike, relax and enjoy the therapeutic exhilaration I get from the activity. Thank you. Grazie.
Grazie mille!
I ride for my own satisfaction,I stopped caring what anyone thinks years ago,i also stopped saying hi to other cyclists,got sick of stony faces,if you say hi to me I’ll wave back,but ride for yourself and let other people think what they like,
I still try to say hi or wave when out on a long ride, but I understand you
Yeah I might have to stop waving, nodding or saying good morning too because ppl just look at you with stone face or don’t do anything back to you as you did to them. Like does it hurt your time that much lol
Well, I have been riding for 35 + years and think all of the new "elitist" roadies are morons. I ride with short socks which was the preferred height at one point, rim brakes and saddle bags. I look at all these followers of fashion and think they are all a bunch of douchebags because of my experience as a long time road cyclist.
I hope we could try to balance following the fashion or not with not being judgemental to each other, whatever the way everyone choose to ride.
Agree, I can't stand snobby attitudes although I do think some standards should be upheld in all sports. As for the 'elite' roadies, I tend to spot them coming and drop the hammer while totally blanking them.
@@John_Wood_ I live outside NYC and would ride 9w and maybe see 10 cyclists back in the 80s and early 90s. NOW, there are THOUSANDS from NYC dressed up like it is a fashion show on $15k bikes and can barely change a flat let alone fix a broken chain. I have been saying this for years CYCLING IS THE NEW GOLF
@@lazyrider6918 Funny you say that, I stopped to help two such people earlier this year with a mechanical. They had the best bikes, some fancy gps sat nav and expensive clothing. Turned out one of them couldn't even work the shifters and mangled his chain. I managed to get it sorted and get them back moving. But i know dam well the same two would look down their nose at me in normal circumstances. As you say, cycling is the new golf and golf is the new football/soccer from what i'm seeing.
@@John_Wood_ And people ASSUME that if we criticize these morons for riding expensive bikes, we are "JEALOUS". Fact is that I can ride any bike I want but I choose to search for value based on my years of experience knowing what is overkill. I have a Tarmac SL3 Project Black limited edition with Ultegra 10 speed and 50mm extra spoked wheels that weighs 16lb 6 oz with pedals, cages and mount. And I have a Focus Cayo Evo with Di2 and similar wheels complete weight of 17lbs on the dot. 56cm rim brakes. If I were to buy a bike now and get that weight, $10k+. I paid $2190 for my Focus shipped new in box to my house from Jenson USA before all of this price gouging started a few years back. These new bike prices remind me of when Plasma televisions were $20K back in the 90s.
So true. I do have to say, I love the Rapha stuff because it’s just timeless and I think good quality. But it’s so funny when I go to their shop in bibs and a hoodie for example I get these weird looks from employees and other customers.
This is such a hilarious video! I love it!
Thank you 😄
Roadies who get fixated on fashion and minor details usually don’t have any real skills. There’s a reason MTB riders don’t give a shit about stuff like this.
Definitely the dress code is stricter for road bikes, but style could also go with skills. At least I am trying to work on both
@@fede1275 I’m in the same boat. It’s a fine line. You need to fit in with the crowd somewhat, but also get my skills up. Some of the dos and dontsare ridiculous though.
Thanks for sharing your take on the humorous Velominati “rules” in your wonderful Italian accent! Like your video, I think the “rules” are observations of the cycling community. Velominati takes these to a satirical extreme. I love them- follow some, don’t follow others as it suits me.
Thank you, as you know I am guilty as well of not following all the rules
If you’re not having fun you’re not doing it right!!
Excellent video chap! I recently did the ride leader course though BritishCycling and the instructor told us to wear eyewear over the straps so that in the event of a crash, the glasses can just fall away from your face whereas if they are under the straps and the glasses break, there is a higher chance of getting broken shards of lenses or frame getting into your eyes due them being held in place with the straps.
Makes sense!
I like your honesty, road cyclists can be an ‘unusual’ lot, when out riding I always acknowledge other cyclists either with a wave or a nod, if I’m riding a mountain bike I very rarely get any acknowledgement from ‘Roadies’. Usually very different if I’m riding my road bike. As for shaving legs, I don’t bother now as I’m not racing. If you race, sooner or later you will crash and shaved legs make cleaning the wounds much easier.
Enjoyed your frankness, keep the videos coming.
Thank you, also for understanding the light nature of the video 😄
I have been cycling since 1989. First mountain bikes, now single speed road bikes. I have never fit in and frankly don't care. The riding community is diverse and there are many groups that don't give a hoot, but I will say that the cycling community seem to fit into the Sheeple category of groups, but then most "communities" do.
Maybe you fit in the group that doesn't care, maybe we all fit somewhere without realising?
Because you had opened your eyes on what cycling is about.
Love this - very funny and informative. I cycle in London, don’t wear the gear - ride a hybrid fx trek4… and often get funny looks from MAMILs. It amuses me 😂
😄😄
Thank you for the video, while I won’t conform to many of these “rules” it’s good to understand where these rules are coming from. I must say I enjoy it a tad when I blow past someone on the road who’s fully checked all the boxes.
Yes, I can understand. That is why I have to ride hard when I am fully checked lol
@UC6xvDd0fTASwJcC9PXXWbvw you’re absolutely right, I have no idea what type of ride they are on. Just fun and games. Lol I think we’ve all been there, dead tired at the end of a long ride getting passed by others
..shaving my legs, cleaning my bike, wearing nice clean clothes etc. is not making me a faster nor better rider, but it makes me happy and I actually enjoy the cool aesthetics of cycling.. and yes I also got a 8.500 $ bike with dics ;-)
I with you all the way... Apart from the 8,500 bike 😂
I wear cheapo stuff from Lidl....plus whatever I plan to wash that day, it's then OK to sweat in it. My wife made me buy a helmet :(....I prefered my jungle hat, it's good sun protection. And my bike is 30 years old. It looks it. My goals are to keep fit: It takes a lot of effort to get 20km /hr out of my old mountain bike. My heart pounds at the sight of a hill. No one waves to me as I struggle on. Most don't even look my way. ...Elitism? Maybe. Or embarassment....I first rode a distance back in 1975 so I myself no longer get embarassed. At 67 activity does not need to be expensive....but it can be....My bike is steel frame. Will the carbon specials still be around in 30years? Having said that you and your bike look cool. It would cost me all my savings to get that look.! Now that would be a challenge for my tight fist !
Thank you and well done on your riding! I have to say steel bikes are heavy, but the feeling is maybe the best, better than carbon and aluminium. I still remember my first Bianchi steel touring bike I had when I was a teen, such a nice ride.
Get a high level El aluminium used bike
I pedal to keep fit and get some cardio in, I wear what the heck I want to, anyone who doesn’t like it can please themselves 😂 ps, I like my dork disk 👍. Next week I’m getting a uni cycle and a red nose.
😂😂
about the shaved legs: I had a bad crash once when my legs were not shaven and it was harder to clean the wounds because of it. So there you go, a good excuse for your non cycling friends. 😅
I shaved my legs back when I raced because I was told that I'd lose less skin sliding across the asphalt if I crashed, plus it was easier to apply and remove suntan lotion, liniment, etc. But I hated the prickly feeling when it started to grow back and needed to be shaved again.
Yep I shave my legs because I once crashed going 30 around a corner. Took the first layer of skin off the full left side of my leg all the way down to the ankle.
I wish I could post the picture I have. It looks horrific. When I cleaned it all I had to do was run water over it and all the rocks and dirt just washed right off. No scrubbing and no touching at all. It's a good thing because it felt like someone taking a torch to my leg and slowing burning me.
If I had hair I think I would have passed out from the pain of scrubbing all the rolled up skin, rocks and blood stuck in the hair.
Took almost 800 dollars worth of adaptic burn bandaging lots of zinc oxide and other ointments by the time it was healed.
Tools in the back pockets.
Electrical tape on the valves. 😉
The "Dork Disc" is actually placed there to prevent the derailleur and/or chain from wedging in the spokes, stopping the wheel, and throwing the rider over the handlebars, over a cliff and to certain and painful death! Although your derailleur may be correctly adjusted now, a fall on the right side may bend the hanger and suddenly your derailleur's in the spokes!
Like "Lawyer Lips," they're an addition made to the bicycle, thanks to the personal injury litigation industry!
You bike probably has more!
Collect all 10!
If the chain goes into the rear wheel you skid, you don’t go over the handlebars
@@kieranbiggar9683 you're obviously unaware of the pitfalls of consumers using bicycles and the things that befall them. Many a cyclist has indeed died as a result of a mis-adjusted low limit pin, a bent derailleur hanger or even very loose spokes. Sorry but you're just gonna have to trust me.
Ever heard of "JRA?"
Oh it's a good one. Legions of stories that amuse, surprise, disappoint and disgust!
I use what i can afford and what i want/like or feel confortable.
Don't mind what others think.
Ride your bike has you like and enjoy.
lots of legitimate info in this video...road cyclists are a special breed of people 😀
I'm just here to see all the people who "don't care about what anyone thinks" lay out their lives on a UA-cam channel proving how punk rock they are. Hilarious, folks.
Not sure why it seems to be hard to admit that we care about what others think. It's a natural process and we all want to be recognised part of our target group, small or large, mainstream or niche.
Those "rules" seem to be more humorous than anything. I take it as a jab at snobs. Either way, it should be fun. I'd rather ride alone than hang out with superficial snobs. I mostly ride alone anyway. I like not having to deal with people 🙃
Me 2.
Thank you for great video, it is ironic, hilarious and serious at the same time. Regarding your bike - it is classically stylish today to have high level rim brakes ;)
Thank you 👍👍
This is so funny and so true...
when I started road cycling on my cyclocross bike, I thought I’d get a proper cycling jersey, and one of the ones I liked most was the world champion by Santini
I was clueless about the reactions I’d get, I loved the top as I wanted something simple, and this fitted the criteria for me.
I though it was akin to wearing a cup winning football top, but oh my god was I wrong.!
On one of the first rides I passed a group going the other way, and they all stared at me with a look of disgust.
It was as if I’d committed some war crime rather than a Fashion Faux Pas...
one did manage to reply my friendly wave 👋 so good on him for that
I know, I still remember the look i got when I walked into the best bike shop in London with my dork disk, presta caps and not wearing cycling kit. It should not be that way though, but I guess knowledge it's useful and keep using that Santini jersey!
Doesn't matter what you wear or your set up as long as your out on the road enjoying yourself doesn't matter
Of course. At the same time I hate not knowing the style rules for a specific social event. At my first serious job I showed up with a suit in brown shoes and black belt. The senior guy told me you have to always match the shoes and the belt, making me feel so bad. I wish I had known in advance.
This is a great and thoughtful video. There are some rules that seem to be rooted only in mystery . . . others actually have a meaningful foundation, especially for faster riders. Roadies don't use valve caps and nuts to make tire changing faster . . . an experienced roadie can change a flat in 2-3 minutes, which helps everyone's legs stay loose and warm (assuming there are others on the ride). The stems of your glasses should be outside your helmet straps so your helmet straps are snug on your head, not your head with sunglasses. It's also easier to remove and replace your sunglasses with the stems over the straps. Shaved legs are easier to clean and bandage after a crash (and save 10-20 watts at higher speeds). I'm not defending elitism though . . . the cyclists I like to ride with are fast and also inclusive and encouraging. No need for casual cyclists to follow all the "rules" . . . but it's good to understand the ones that actually help (especially the safety ones . . . like helmet straps under sunglasses).
Very well explained!
Great video Federico. I have lots that I can share with you that I have seen :)
At the end of the day, make sure the kit matches your ability on the bike. Nothing is worse than an out of shape cyclist with a high-end kit.
I still wear baggy shorts and baggy shirts, trust me, you would not want to see me on spandex :D someday, someday
Yes, I understand. Really everyone should feel free to choose the preferred kit, but I guess you need to feel comfortable in it.
What is wrong about that? Not everybody is a strong rider. A weak can still dress in high-end kit and have fun on the bike.
😂so true 👍🏻🇮🇹
I would ride in a t-shirt and shorts with flip flops and no helmet when I first started, you can imagine what everyone thought of me when I passed them in their skin suits
It’s satirical; but it’s not to some. The group (surprisingly large) that consider themselves “true roadies” have an air of superiority and sneer at those they believe don’t fit their stringent standards. In reality they are (often) overblown out of shape muppets with very expensive bikes. “Punk roadie” is the way. Wear what you want, ride what you want and probably put most in that “bellend” category to shame when out on the road. Just my (probably) unpopular opinion.
Ps; You and your bike look really well put together. Sharp👍
Thank you Simon, I am trying a third way of keeping the standards and at the same time laugh at myself. If I look serious is only because the uphill effort is making me contorting my face...
Utterly stupid generalisations. I hope you ride alone.
Shallow much🙄
Yeah, I prefer a saddlebag as well. Stuffing a spare tube, inflator and levers in a jersey pocket may look more professional, but it's uncomfortable and time consuming. My biggest gripe is the rider on the triathlon bike who insists on riding on their aerobars while in a paceline.
I still ride with my dork disc and cap on my presta
No dork disk but caps on my presta yeahhhh!
I went fluorescent orange on my helmet, gilet and gloves. Definitely not as “cool” as all black, but I can definitely tell the difference in traffic. I’m more seen by motorists, no doubt. As a fashionista I’m planning to swap my bike shoe laces to orange too.
How can serious cyclists say they want cycling to appeal to the wider community and adopt such a snobbish attitude
just came across your website and I'm hooked! Very well-spoken guy. Simple and very clear.
Thank you 😄
Marginal gains without the presta cap.
You can feel it 😂
Each of my two bikes, road and MTB, has a saddlebag with the right sized tube, a patch kit, a multi tool, and a few other odds and ends. And a pump on the downtube bottle mount. So that stuff is always there when I hop on either bike. It's just easier. And then I don't have a bunch of bulky and/or sharp stuff in my jersey pockets. It's one less thing to think about and one less impediment to getting on my bikes as often as I can.
I actually had a aero helmet because it had a vizier. That’s a great feature because I could wear my glasses 👓 behind them.
It's all about ego and vanity but one should never shame another because they wear cheap stuff.
Agree and also one of my favourite outfits is made up from dhb bibs and an unbranded jersey
Really good video. I really couldn’t give a phuck about what other people think. I have purple anodized valve caps that match the bar end bolt, that match the bolts that hold my bottle cages on. Never shaved legs, never will. Small bullet bag on saddle as I don’t have 9 team mates to carry me. Socks, yes I do follow convention. Glasses under strap, they cost too much to lose 😎
Wear what you want and don't worry about it. JP
Of course, I agree. But it's still interesting to know what is considered stilish or not 😀
@@fede1275 I get that but at 60 I'm now long past caring. Ride safe. JP
I never follow rules, regulations, codes, policies, statutes, legislation, acts, edicts, mandates, or fashion. I do what I like, provided I do not harm anyone.
Definitely cover your presta and keep the lower screw loose ish from rim or if you do get a puncture I've seen my tyre spin on my rom ripping the presa clean off the tube bit that was before tubeless but you guys still run them pink tpu things do applies! Get a clear presta valve cover that goes further down and seals any air from knocking out the valve if when comes loose on uk roads as I've experienced! As for shaven legs that should be banned lol
Don't copy other's rules and make a prat of yourself with the snobbish way these guys are getting a name for themselves do what you feel is comfa and safe for you! Maybe the leg shaving is a bit ott there, but hey its 2024 worlds mad just now anyway
OK...just saw this. I'm 70 years old. Fxxk the rules.
imagine a basketball player getting upset at you because youre not wearing jordans. imagine a soccer player getting mad because youre not wearing adidas.
imagine giving a f*** what anyone else thinks about how you live your life.
if youre a killer rider, then break some rules on purpose and dust those fools.
I know I'm stressing the concept here, but dress codes still are followed. I understand your examples, but imagine showing up at the basketball game with a golf polo or in rugby shirt? The reality is we all want to feel part of a group, smaller or larger depending on the circumstances. If we really could not care about the others you would go around with batman bottoms, a robe and a pan as hat. Some do, but are considered crazy.
@@fede1275 while this is true, people definitely still play ball in polo t's, and a jersey is a jersey. i could understand if youre in a competition or something official but if youre just going for a casual ride with companions it shouldnt matter if youre in a skin tight bike fit or white tee-shirt and some swim trunks over some cycling shorts (that was basically me yesterday). im riding with trail-glove 6's and flat pedals too. as long as your comfortable and enjoying yourself it really shouldnt matter. if theyre uncomfortable because of something they cannot control and have no say in, then they have personal issues and should get over it and focus on their own performance. sure, in some cases you should 'look the part' but it isnt written in stone that if youre gonna ride a bike you have to conform to predetermined set of rules. basically, do what makes YOU happy, and if others dont like it they dont deserve your company. to be clear though, i understand if youre in a group of cyclists that are trying to train and better their abilities, health and fitness, with an air of competition amongst eachothers. if youre dressed too inappropriately you can stick out like a sore thumb. my point was simply was that if someone is grilling you over your personal choices then they arent someone worth spending time with. a real friend says 'you look crazy but oh well lets gooooo'
@@pookienumnums I'm actually agreeing with you, I am enjoying the dress code and I follow it (or not sometimes) because for me it's part of the enjoyment. I don't look down on anyone and I laugh at myself, trying to be stylish but not snob. I know it might look I'm pretentious, but was not my aim 😄
That beard is a wonder of nature.
Thank you, I am lucky 😄
Right, no. Just ride a bicycle. The American mentality is the pits, anyone who rides a bike which is not the latest model gets ridiculed. And that in a country that has absolutely no cycling infrastructure.
English speaking riders... yeah, NO.
Wearing your glasses on the outside of the strap seems to make sense to me, because then they are not in the way of the functionality of the helmet. If you fall, and have the glasses under the strap, that could cause them to cut into your skin when the strap tightens.
The only thing I make sure I use is bib shorts after that it depends what I have clean. I find price of cycling gear too expensive, I try to look for sales. I never follow these types of files as I’m too old to care, just ride
Used to think these rules were important when I was young and racing my bike.....Now that I´m old, I really don´t care anymore, just ride your bike and enjoy it while you still can!!!!
Come over to the MTB world, you will have to wear baggies and loose jersey, unless you are an XC rider...
See, too many rules as well 😄😄
@@fede1275 and sub rules created by bike marketing department. Like different styles of MTB helmet - XC, trail, trail with attachable chin guard, full face helmet…🤪
I ride my MTB with redback boots with no sock, shorts, sometimes jogger with a tee shirt. I enjoy me some downhill fun
Best way to circumvent dealing with cycling elitism out on the road is to ride past them. Or hit the dirt right next to them. Give them a little wave as you have the time of your life and watch their bibs scrunch up so tight their eyes water. But on a serious note, I’m blessed that the cyclists around me are all pretty kind. Even sometimes say “good morning” when they pass humble ol’ me.
In wash. D.c. there are all these folks on rentals and they have no sense of ANYTHING, they don't call out when they pass, they don't acknowledge other riders, they wooble all over the road. Etc.
If your going to be doing something often then your going to be needing/wanting something to wear that is comfortable and doesn't hold you back. This talk about people wearing work pants and boots is silly. Wearing that on a road bike is simply uncomfortable and impractical. So if your gonna buy something why wouldn't buy something that looks good and performs well? There is no point to ride around looking like the only reason you're on the bike is because you got nailed for drunk driving.
About socks: Without a height limit, a rider could wear stockings up to the shorts or even tights. So riders could in effect wear skin suits. The UCI doesn't want road racers to ride in skin suits, hence the rule.
I wear woolly boolie or wool hiking socks because my feet are always cold. Also, I wear five ten Freerider pro and not cleats because if I have to walk home I need flat shoes 😊