People, I have a theory about recreational bicycling: 90% of the equipment worn or used by modern bicyclists is completely superfluous. There are some hardcore cyclists among my audience, including at least one rider who's completed the legendary annual STP ride, so I know I risk bruising some egos when I say this. But come on! When you see someone cruising up the Burke-Gilman Trail, and they're dressed like they're riding reserve for Team Motorola in the Tour de France, don't you just wanna say, you know, something? Something like, "Uh, do you really need all that fancy shit? Does it really make you a better athlete?"I acknowledge that I'm an outlier, a lonely wolf, in the world of contemporary recreational bicycling. I don't own any lycra or spandex clothing. (Not even for the triathlon, people! I will not wear spandex in my triathlon!) But I know a lot, in fact probably most, of today's cyclists wear spandex riding shorts. And that's OK. But these biking suspenders go beyond the limits of acceptability. Frankly, they're ridiculous. I don't know how you can convince yourself that you need these things. But please, if you do have them, wear them with a jersey. Even if you're as studly as this model guy here, you're gonna look like a jackass. Especially if you pout ...
3 comments:
Thank you for this post. I could not agree more. As an avid modern cyclist (actually a cyclist since 1975) who spent a year riding as a messenger I have never and will never own any spandex shorts or "cycling" attire. I am now a daily bike commuter and not even slightly temped, just good old fashion paints for me ... with four roles of the cuff.... I do however have a light and fenders!
Just another reason I stick to running... not that I'm opposed to goofy looking clothes, it's just the prices involved with Tri-ing that I refuse to take part in. ;-)
Great job getting the word out about the NBMR!
Nic, what you're doing is beyond running. Who are you trying to kid?
And MW, thank YOU for your comment. A light and fenders: yes! Actually, TWO lights and fenders - one light for the front, and one for the back. And a helmet, of course. And a good stout lock. And - sorry, I'm gonna rebuke you here a little - a Velcro strap for the right pants leg, rather than just rolling the cuff. And some gloves, if you have a longer ride or if the weather's a little brisk. And a GPS. And ... an espresso maker. I know. I know, it probably seems extravagant, but it beats waiting for it to brew at home. And what else am I gonna do on my ride? The scenery gets boring after a while ...
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