Hi, first time post here. I'm in my early 50's and am wanting to get back into cycling. Back in my college days, I was a pretty avid road rider, and even did a little racing locally. For a while I even worked as an mechanic in a bike shop. Since then it's been an office job and a family . . . and too many desserts . . . but this year I am trying to beat myself back into shape so I can finally complete a century ride. I was thinking about joining up with a riding group that meets at a local nature center . . . preparing for their fall century ride. . . but when I saw the group, I was kind of surprised and went back home without leaving my car.
I've never owned any specialized bicyle clothing. Even when I used to ride dozens of miles a day, I always just rode in shorts and a tee shirt. These guys were all wearing really strange clothing . . . helmets that were elongated and pointy in back, wrap around sunglasses, and wildly colored Spandex outfits covered with writing. To me, they looked like space aliens wearing skin-tight clown costumes. Since these were supposedly recreational cyclists, I didn't expect this. What should I expect? Seriously, I'm not trying to make fun of anybody. I am legitimately puzzled. Was this some sort of hazing for new members or do bicyclists actually dress up like that these days just for recreational riding?
I don't think I could do that. I was thinking about spending a grand or so on a newer road bike, but if I'd be expected to dress that way, I'll have to take up a different sport. Guidance please.
I've never owned any specialized bicyle clothing. Even when I used to ride dozens of miles a day, I always just rode in shorts and a tee shirt. These guys were all wearing really strange clothing . . . helmets that were elongated and pointy in back, wrap around sunglasses, and wildly colored Spandex outfits covered with writing. To me, they looked like space aliens wearing skin-tight clown costumes. Since these were supposedly recreational cyclists, I didn't expect this. What should I expect? Seriously, I'm not trying to make fun of anybody. I am legitimately puzzled. Was this some sort of hazing for new members or do bicyclists actually dress up like that these days just for recreational riding?
I don't think I could do that. I was thinking about spending a grand or so on a newer road bike, but if I'd be expected to dress that way, I'll have to take up a different sport. Guidance please.