Scott Martin

Been ridin' much?

This must be the most common question asked whenever two roadies meet. (Followed closely by "How much does it weigh?")

As any true cyclist knows, the correct answer -- whether you logged 2 or 200 miles last week -- is: "Nah, I haven't been riding much at all." Remember to preface your response by rolling your eyes and grimacing.

Since we're all such good liars, how do you discover the truth? The key is to know which signals matter and which should be ignored. For instance:

Fancy gear. Possibly the worst fitness indicator. Anyone with big bucks can buy a fancy bike and a flashy jersey. Anyone with big bucks is probably working too much and riding too little. Torn bar tape + worn saddle = trouble.

Saddlebag size. There does appear to be an inverse relationship at work here. The smaller the seatbag, the faster the rider. Caution: Some well-prepared riders (usually bike mechanics or ex-Boy Scouts) will stomp you even while toting three pounds of tools and parts.

Shaved legs. Works only for evaluating male riders, and even then it's not terribly effective. Many hairy gorillas roam the cycling jungle.

Yellow jersey. Don't worry about anyone who shows up wearing a store-bought maillot jaune. Most serious cyclists consider it presumptuous to wear a leader's jersey they didn't earn. And if this fellow in yellow wears his jersey underneath bib shorts, start licking your lips.

Smile lines. When your new cycling acquaintance flashes a welcoming grin, does a deep canyon appear on either side of her nose? Be very afraid. She has no body fat. And you have no hope.

une page mise en archives par

Consultez notre ENCYCLOPÉDIE sportive