Cycling, like other sports is highly stratified but very broad in scope - like moving from miniature golf to a 9 hole short course, the local country club, amateur tournaments to the PGA. There is room for everyone and their personal goals. There is also the natural sociological behavior of groups and the "in-crowd" and outsider phenomenon. That being said, within every group there are individuals who are receptive to bringing new folks along as well as those who are too self-absorbed to bother. The point is that it is not monolithic - not everyone in any group shares the same role or even values.
Fortunately, the sport of cycling is always evolving. Here in the midwest, for example, we have an explosion in organized events called "gravel races." These are unsupported, often free "races" on back roads. They tend to be fairly long and challenging but VERY inclusive - anyone can show up on any kind of equipment dressed in any kind of outfit and simply ride the event. The racers race and everyone else just enjoys a long ride. The only goal is finishing within a certain window of time (for safety reason.) The cycling industry is capitalizing on this by marketing bikes with bigger tires, stronger frames, better brakes etc. There are also charity rides with basically a similar "everyone's welcome" ethic.
I understand the snobbery, but what still bothers me is the "snubbery." When I'm riding and meet or pass another cyclist I always give them a wave or at least a nod. I have been surprised by the number of riders who lack the common courtesy to acknowledge another cyclist. It doesn't feel very good to be snubbed and I've gotten to the point of wanting to simply put my nose down and enjoy my ride -but I'm not quite there yet.
