January 25, 2012
by Bikeyface
Unexpected Types
We all know that there are only two types of cyclists, right?
Well, I happened to see this cyclist the other day at the grocery store:
Now I’m confused. Which of the two cyclist types is he?
Yeah, the stereotypes don’t make much sense.
It would kind of be like classifying all drivers like this:
It’s obvious right? The third type is actually just when the “two types” get old and require oxygen assistance, and can’t be bothered to shave.
LOL. I might have a new stereotype for you. I haven’t shaved in decades and considering that I am enclosed within my Velomobile, a human powered vehicle, I could be buck necked for all you know.
As for the Lance Armstrong Wannabes, I’ve been accused of “tormenting the roadies”.
Those shorts on the Lance Armstrong type are definitely eye candy. I think the manufacturers planned it that way…
nicely said
I need to see if the oxygen tank dude has a tribal tat or not before I can tell you which type he is.
I’m pretty sure the oxygen guy is the first (Lance Armstrong wannabee) type — the beard is a dead giveaway, so to speak. This is the randonneur subtype. Those guys always have beards.
I have to admit…that I’m neither…I prefer wearing knickers and a button down shirt(is it bad that I’m now up to three pairs of knickers?) and a twill cap.
I think it would be so cool to see someone with oxygen riding a bike. You shouldn’t let anything get you down. Even if you need it to be able to ride, then more power to you.
Otherwise, I continue to be a strange hybrid type biker. I ride a steel cross frame (Bianchi Volpe) but I use it for commuting (when I wear normal clothes) and for monthly century rides, when I wear the spandex and all that. I guess I am never an Armstrong wannabe since I still care more about comfort over the 100 miles than speed.
I distinctly remember a young mommy in a Republican zip code staring with bulging eyes at my package. Completely stopped chewing. So I stared at her breasts as retribution.
Neither of us had any “defining qualities” but she did shield her childrens’ eyes with her pastrami on rye.
GRJim: love it, you have a way with words!
Another cyclist type, recumbent rider with aero belly and beard.
Very nice! No stereotypical cyclists here: PracticalCycle.com/customers
Hmmm… why did the hipster roll up his right/drive-side pant leg? He is wearing skinny jeans, for chrissakes! No need…
He’s a commuter! I dunno, though: are we considered true cyclists?
Are bike gangs (such as they are in Boston) a fourth type, or [unfairly] lumped in with hipsters?
No helmet, non aero clothing, flat pedals, upright position etc seems to point towards the hipster. The oxygen tank is probably an ironic accessory or a new hipster fad.
No one in Amsterdam is going for the Lance or the fixie hipster look. You are the breath of fresh air american cycling needs.
Thank you!