Are bike racing clubs so insular and arrogant that they genuinely believe theyre the only type of cyclist worth collaborating with, or is it just a lack of imagination and creativity that prevents them from reaching out to other disciplines. Seriously, how many times have we seen roadies and mountain bikers engage in petty squabbles over whose type of riding is more pure, or whose bikes are more authentic? Newsflash: this isnt the 19th century, and the days of cycling being a quaint, niche hobby are long gone.
So, heres the question: whats it going to take for bike racing clubs to finally wake up and realize that theres a whole world of cyclists out there who dont wear Lycra, and who dont worship at the altar of Strava KOMs. Are they waiting for some kind of divine intervention, or a memo from the UCI telling them that, yes, actually, commuter cyclists and touring cyclists are real cyclists too? Or are they just too far up their own backsides to care.
Look, its not like this is rocket science. All it takes is a bit of effort and imagination to reach out to other cycling disciplines and start building some bridges. Organize a joint ride or event with a local mountain bike club, or invite some commuter cyclists to join your club ride. Heck, you could even try (shock horror) talking to them, and finding out what makes them tick.
But no, instead of doing something constructive, we get the usual chorus of were the real cyclists, theyre just wannabes. Well, let me tell you, that attitude isnt going to cut it anymore. The cycling landscape is changing, and if bike racing clubs dont get with the program, theyre going to find themselves left behind.
So, what do you think: can bike racing clubs change their ways, and start embracing the diversity of the cycling world, or are they doomed to remain stuck in their narrow, elitist mindset.