duder5189 - 2011-07-28 12:32 PM
The whole "cyclist snob" thing is something that I still grapple with to this day.
I was never a rider myself until 4 years ago when I bought a bike for the specific purpose of triathlon. To that point, I'll be honest, I did not appreciate the bikers I'd see out on the roads - I definitely bought into the bike snob stereotype. The stupid colorful jerseys and tight pants and $5,000 bikes, and the way they selectively follow road rules that are to their benefit but ignore ones they don't really like - it was all just real lame in my book.
I'm coming around now that I'm "one of them" (not a snob, a cyclist). I even ride with a group of cyclists that wear all the gear (all very good people) and have become what I once despised. Although, I still don't own a true cycling jersey (I wear tri tops or under armor stuff) - that's how deeply seeded that bike snob stereotype was in me.
It's just sad to hear that it is actually, apparently a real thing, and there are some d-bags out there living it out.
What I do in these situations...kill them with kindness. I'd have hit him with a cheerful but obviously sarcastic "nice to meet you too, have a good ride!" That kind of thing tells him he's obviously being a dick, and just festers in him.
Then where do you put all your stuff?
On a long ride my jersey pockets are chock a block full of stuff. Rain jacket, food, phone, food, mini pump, food..........well, you get the idea!
As for the issue of bike snobbery and whether or not cyclists wave to each other, around here it is pretty unusual to pass another cyclist and NOT make a sign of acknowledgement. Everybody does it. Something as simple as a slight nod or a smile.
The only time I will not make an effort is if I am deep within the "pain cave" of an interval session. A grunt or grimace is not terribly friendly I am afraid..........