The Rules

We are the Keepers of the Cog. In so being, we also maintain the sacred text wherein lie the simple truths of cycling etiquette known as The Rules. It is in our trust to maintain and endorse this list.

The Rules lie at the beginning of The Path to La Vie Velominatus, not at the end; learning to balance them against one another and to welcome them all into your life as a Velominatus is a never-ending struggle waged between form and function as we continue along The Path towards transcension.

See also The Prophet’s Prayer.

  1. // Obey The Rules.
  2. // Lead by example.It is forbidden for someone familiar with The Rules to knowingly assist another person to breach them.1
  3. // Guide the uninitiated.No matter how good you think your reason is to knowingly breach The Rules, it is never good enough.
  4. // It’s all about the bike. It is, absolutely, without question, unequivocally, about the bike. Anyone who says otherwise is obviously a twatwaffle.
  5. // Harden The Fuck Up. 2,20
  6. // Free your mind and your legs will follow.Your mind is your worst enemy. Do all your thinking before you start riding your bike.  Once the pedals start to turn, wrap yourself in the sensations of the ride – the smell of the air, the sound of the tires, the feeling of flight as the bicycle rolls over the road.
  7. // Tan lines should be cultivated and kept razor sharp.Under no circumstances should one be rolling up their sleeves or shorts in an effort to somehow diminish one’s tan lines. Sleeveless jerseys are under no circumstances to be employed.
  8. // Saddles, bars, and tires shall be carefully matched.3Valid options are:

    Match the saddle to the bars and the tires to black; or

    Match the bars to the color of the frame at the top of the head tube and the saddle to the color of the frame at the top of the seat tube and the tires to the color where they come closest to the frame; or

    Match the saddle and the bars to the frame decals; or

    Black, black, black

  9. // If you are out riding in bad weather, it means you are a badass. Period.Fair-weather riding is a luxury reserved for Sunday afternoons and wide boulevards. Those who ride in foul weather – be it cold, wet, or inordinately hot – are members of a special club of riders who, on the morning of a big ride, pull back the curtain to check the weather and, upon seeing rain falling from the skies, allow a wry smile to spread across their face. This is a rider who loves the work.
  10. // It never gets easier, you just go faster.As this famous quote by Greg LeMan tells us, training, climbing, and racing is hard. It stays hard. To put it another way, per Greg Henderson: “Training is like fighting with a gorilla. You don’t stop when you’re tired. You stop when the gorilla is tired.” Sur la Plaque, fucktards.4
  11. // Family does not come first. The bike does.Sean Kelly, being interviewed after the ’84 Amstel Gold Race, spots his wife leaning against his Citroën AX. He interrupts the interview to tell her to get off the paintwork, to which she shrugs, “In your life the car comes first, then the bike, then me.” Instinctively, he snaps back, “You got the order wrong. The bike comes first.”21
  12. // The correct number of bikes to own is n+1.While the minimum number of bikes one should own is three, the correct number is n+1, where n is the number of bikes currently owned. This equation may also be re-written as s-1, where s is the number of bikes owned that would result in separation from your partner.
  13. // If you draw race number 13, turn it upside down.Paradoxically, the same mind that holds such control over the body is also woefully fragile and prone to superstitious thought. It fills easily with doubt and is distracted by ancillary details. This is why the tape must always be perfect, the machine silent, the kit spotless. And, if you draw the unlucky Number 13, turn it upside down to counter-act its negative energy.
  14. // Shorts should be black.Team-issue shorts should be black, with the possible exception of side-panels, which may match the rest of the team kit.
  15. // Black shorts should also be worn with leader’s jerseys.Black shorts, or at least standard team-kit shorts, must be worn with Championship jerseys and race leadership jerseys. Don’t over-match your kit, or accept that you will look like a douche.
  16. // Respect the jersey.Championship and race leader jerseys must only be worn if you’ve won the championship or led the race.
  17. // Team kit is for members of the team.Wearing Pro team kit is also questionable if you’re not paid to wear it.  If you must fly the colors of Pro teams, all garments should match perfectly, i.e no Mapei jersey with Kelme shorts and Telekom socks.
  18. // Know what to wear. Don’t suffer kit confusion.No baggy shorts and jerseys while riding the road bike. No lycra when riding the mountain bike (unless racing XC). Skin suits only for cyclocross.
  19. // Introduce Yourself.If you deem it appropriate to join a group of riders who are not part of an open group ride and who are not your mates, it is customary and courteous to announce your presence. Introduce yourself and ask if you may join the group. If you have been passed by a group, wait for an invitation, introduce yourself, or let them go. The silent joiner is viewed as ill-mannered and Anti-V. Conversely, the joiner who can’t shut their cakehole is no better and should be dropped from the group at first opportunity.
  20. // There are only three remedies for pain.These are:

    If your quads start to burn, shift forward to use your hamstrings and calves, or

    If your calves or hamstrings start to burn, shift back to use your quads, or

    If you feel wimpy and weak, meditate on  Rule #5 and train more!

  21. // Cold weather gear is for cold weather.Knickers, vests, arm warmers, shoe covers, and caps beneath your helmet can all make you look like a hardman, when the weather warrants their use. If it isn’t wet or cold, save your Flandrian Best for Flemish weather.
  22. // Cycling caps are for cycling.Cycling caps can be worn under helmets, but never when not riding, no matter how hip you think you look. This will render one a douche, and should result in public berating or beating. The only time it is acceptable to wear a cycling cap is while directly engaged in cycling activities and while clad in cycling kit. This includes activities taking place prior to and immediately after the ride such as machine tuning and tire pumping.  Also included are cafe appearances for pre-ride espressi and post-ride pub appearances for body-refueling ales (provided said pub has sunny, outdoor patio – do not stray inside a pub wearing kit or risk being ceremoniously beaten by leather-clad biker chicks).   Under these conditions, having your cap skull-side tipped jauntily at a rakish angle is, one might say, de rigueur. All good things must be taken in measure, however, and as such it is critical that we let sanity and good taste prevail: as long as the first sip of the relevant caffeine or hop-based beverage is taken whilst beads of sweat, snow, or rain are still evident on one’s brow then it is legitimate for the cap to be worn. However, once all that remains in the cranial furrows is salt, it is then time to shower, throw on some suitable aprés-ride attire (a woollen Molteni Arcore training top circa ’73 comes to mind) and return to the bar, folded copy of pastel-coloured news publication in hand, ready for formal fluid replacement. It is also helpful if you are a Giant of the Road, as demonstrated here, rather than a giant douchebag. 5
  23. // Tuck only after reaching Escape Velocity.You may only employ the aerodynamic tuck after you have spun out your 53 x 11; the tuck is to be engaged only when your legs can no longer keep up. Your legs make you go fast, and trying to keep your fat ass out of the wind only serves to keep you from slowing down once you reach escape velocity. Thus, the tuck is only to be employed to prevent you slowing down when your legs have wrung the top end out of your block. Tucking prematurely while descending is the antithesis of Casually Deliberate. For more on riding fast downhill see Rule #64 and Rule #85.
  24. // Speeds and distances shall be referred to and measured in kilometers. This includes while discussing cycling in the workplace with your non-cycling coworkers, serving to further mystify our sport in the web of their Neanderthalic cognitive capabilities. As the confused expression spreads across their unibrowed faces, casually mention your shaved legs. All of cycling’s monuments are measured in the metric system and as such the English system is forbidden.
  25. // The bikes on top of your car should be worth more than the car. Or at least be relatively more expensive.  Basically, if you’re putting your Huffy on your Rolls, you’re in trouble, mister. Remember what Sean said.
  26. // Make your bike photogenic.When photographing your bike, gussy her up properly for the camera. Some parameters are firm: valve stems at 6 o’clock. Cranks never at 90 or 180 degrees. Others are at your discretion, though the accepted practices include putting the chain on the big dog, and no bidons in the cages.
  27. // Shorts and socks should be like Goldilocks.Not too long and not too short. (Disclaimer: despite Sean Yates’ horrible choice in shorts length, he is a quintessential hard man of cycling and is deeply admired by the Velominati. Whereas Armstrong’s short and sock lengths are just plain wrong.) No socks is a no-no, as are those ankle-length ones that should only be worn by female tennis players.
  28. // Socks can be any damn colour you like.White is old school cool. Black is cool too, but were given a bad image by a Texan whose were too long.  If you feel you must go colored, make sure they damn well match your kit. Tip: DeFeet Wool-E-Ators rule.
  29. // No European Posterior Man-Satchels.Saddle bags have no place on a road bike, and are only acceptable on mountain bikes in extreme cases.
  30. // No frame-mounted pumps.Either Co2 cannisters or mini-pumps should be carried in jersey pockets (See Rule #31). The only exception to this rule is to mount a Silca brand frame pump in the rear triangle of the frame, with the rear wheel skewer as the pump mount nob, as demonstrated by members of the 7-Eleven and Ariostea pro cycling teams. As such, a frame pump mounted upside-down and along the left (skewer lever side) seat stay is both old skool and Euro and thus acceptable. We restate at this time that said pump may under no circumstances be a Zefal and must be made by Silca. Said Silca pump must be fitted with a Campagnolo head. It is acceptable to gaffer-tape a mini-pump to your frame when no C02 cannisters are available and your pockets are full of spare kit and energy gels. However, the rider should expect to be stopped and questioned and may be required to empty pockets to prove there is no room in them for the pump.
  31. // Spare tubes, multi-tools and repair kits should be stored in jersey pockets.If absolutely necessary, in a converted bidon in a cage on bike. Or, use one of these.
  32. // Humps are for camels: no hydration packs.Hydration packs are never to be seen on a road rider’s body. No argument will be entered into on this. For MTB, they are cool.
  33. // Shave your guns.Legs are to be carefully shaved at all times. If, for some reason, your legs are to be left hairy, make sure you can dish out plenty of hurt to shaved riders, or be considered a hippie douche on your way to a Critical Mass. Whether you use a straight razor or a Bowie knife, use Baxter to keep them smooth.
  34. // Mountain bike shoes and pedals have their place.On a mountain bike.
  35. // No visors on the road.Road helmets can be worn on mountain bikes, but never the other way around. If you want shade, see Rule #22.
  36. // Eyewear shall be cycling specific.No Aviator shades, blueblockers, or clip-on covers for eye glasses.
  37. // The arms of the eyewear shall always be placed over the helmet straps.No exceptions. This is for various reasons that may or may not matter; it’s just the way it is.
  38. // Don’t Play Leap Frog.Train Properly: if you get passed by someone, it is nothing personal, just accept that on the day/effort/ride they were stronger than you. If you can’t deal, work harder. But don’t go playing leap frog to get in front only to be taken over again (multiple times) because you can’t keep up the pace. Especially don’t do this just because the person overtaking you is a woman. Seriously. Get over it.
  39. // Never ride without your eyewear.You should not make a habit of riding without eyewear, although approved extenuating circumstances include fog, overheating, and lighting condition. When not worn over the eyes, they should be neatly tucked into the vents of your helmet.  If they don’t fit, buy a new helmet. In the meantime you can wear them backwards on the back of your head or carefully tuck them into your jersey pocket, making sure not to scratch them on your tools (see item 31).
  40. // Tires are to be mounted with the label centered over the valve stem.Pro mechanics do it because it makes it easier to find the valve. You do this because that’s the way pro mechanics do it. This will save you precious seconds while your fat ass sits on the roadside fumbling with your CO2 after a flat. It also looks better for photo opportunities. Note: This obviously only applies to clinchers as tubulars don’t give you a choice.
  41. // Quick-release levers are to be carefully positioned.Quick release angle on the front skewer shall be an upward angle which tightens just aft of the fork and the rear quick release shall tighten at an angle that bisects angle between the seat and chain stays. It is acceptable, however, to have the rear quick release tighten upward, just aft of the seat stay, when the construction of the frame or its dropouts will not allow the preferred positioning. For Time Trial bikes only, quick releases may be in the horizontal position facing towards the rear of the bike. This is for maximum aero effect.9
  42. // A bike race shall never be preceded with a swim and/or followed by a run.If it’s preceded with a swim and/or followed by a run, it is not called a bike race, it is called duathlon or a triathlon. Neither of which is a bike race. Also keep in mind that one should only swim in order to prevent drowning, and should only run if being chased. And even then, one should only run fast enough to prevent capture.
  43. // Don’t be a jackass.But if you absolutely must be a jackass, be a funny jackass. Always remember, we’re all brothers and sisters on the road.
  44. // Position matters.In order to find the V-Locus, a rider’s handlebars on their road bike must always be lower than their saddle. The only exception to this is if you’re revolutionizing the sport, in which case you must also be prepared to break the World Hour Record. The minimum allowable tolerance is 4cm; there is no maximum, but people may berate you if they feel you have them too low.
  45. // Slam your stem.A maximum stack height of 2cm is allowed below the stem and a single 5mm spacer must always – always – be stacked above. A “slammed down” stack height is preferable; meaning that the stem is positioned directly on the top race of the headset.
  46. // Keep your bars level.Handlebars will be mounted parallel to the ground or angled slightly upward. While they may never be pointed down at all, they may be angled up slightly; allowed handlebar tilt is to be between 180 and 175 degrees with respect to the level road. The brake levers will preferably be mounted such that the end of the brake lever is even with the bottom of the bar.  Modern bars, however, dictate that this may not always be possible, so tolerances are permitted within reason. Brake hoods should not approach anything near 45 degrees, as some riders with poor taste have been insisting on doing.
  47. // Drink Tripels, don’t ride triples.Cycling and beer are so intertwined we may never understand the full relationship. Beer is a recovery drink, an elixir for post-ride trash talking and a just plain excellent thing to pour down the neck. We train to drink so don’t fool around. Drink quality beer from real breweries. If it is brewed with rice instead of malted barley or requires a lime, you are off the path. Know your bittering units like you know your gear length. Life is short, don’t waste it on piss beer.
  48. // Saddles must be level and pushed back.The seating area of a saddle is to be visually level, with the base measurement made using a spirit level. Based on subtleties of saddle design and requirements of comfort, the saddle may then be pitched slightly forward or backward to reach a position that offers stability, power, and comfort. If the tilt of the saddle exceeds two degrees, you need to go get one of those saddles with springs and a thick gel pad because you are obviously a big pussy. The midpoint of the saddle as measured from tip to tail shall fall well behind and may not be positioned forward of the line made by extending the seat tube through the top of the saddle. (Also see Rule #44.)
  49. // Keep the rubber side down.It is completely unacceptable to intentionally turn one’s steed upside down for any reason under any circumstances. Besides the risk of scratching the saddle, levers and stem, it is unprofessional and a disgrace to your loyal steed. The risk of the bike falling over is increased, wheel removal/replacement is made more difficult and your bidons will leak. The only reason a bicycle should ever be in an upside down position is during mid-rotation while crashing. This Rule also applies to upside down saddle-mount roof bars.23
  50. // Facial hair is to be carefully regulated.No full beards, no moustaches. Goatees are permitted only if your name starts with “Marco” and ends with “Pantani”, or if your head is intentionally or unintentionally bald. One may never shave on the morning of an important race, as it saps your virility, and you need that to kick ass.
  51. // Livestrong wristbands are cockrings for your arms.While we hate cancer, isn’t it better to just donate some money and not have to advertise the fact for the next five years? You may as well get “tryhard wanker” tattooed on your forehead. Or you may well be a bogan.
  52. // Drink in Moderation.Bidons are to be small in size. 500-610ml maximum, no extra large vessels are to be seen on one’s machine. Two cages can be mounted, but only one bidon on rides under two hours is to be employed. Said solo bidon must be placed in the downtube cage only. You may only ride with a bidon in the rear cage if you have a front bidon, or you just handed your front bidon to a fan at the roadside and you are too busy crushing everyone to move it forward until you take your next drink. Bidons should match each other and preferably your bike and/or kit. The obvious exception is the classic Coca-Cola bidon which by default matches any bike and/or kit due to its heritage. Coca-Cola should only be consumed flat and near the end of a long ride or all-day solo breakaway on the roads of France.
  53. // Keep your kit clean and new.As a courtesy to those around you, your kit should always be freshly laundered, and, under no circumstances should the crackal region of your shorts be worn out or see-through.
  54. // No aerobars on road bikes.Aerobars or other clip-on attachments are under no circumstances to be employed on your road bike. The only exception to this is if you are competing in a mountain timetrial.
  55. // Earn your turns.If you are riding down a mountain, you must first have ridden up the mountain. It is forbidden to employ powered transportation simply for the cheap thrill of descending. The only exception to this is if you are doing intervals on Alpe d’Huez or the Plan de Corones and you park your car up top before doing 20 repeats of the climb.
  56. // Espresso or macchiato only.When wearing cycling kit and enjoying a pre or post ride coffee, it is only appropriate to drink espresso or macchiato. If the word soy/skim latte is heard to be used by a member wearing cycling apparel, then that person must be ceremonially beaten with Co2 canisters or mini pumps by others within the community.6
  57. // No stickers.Nobody gives a shit what causes you support, what war you’re against, what gear you buy, or what year you rode RAGBRAI.  See Rule #5 and ride your bike. Decals, on the other hand, are not only permissible, but extremely Pro.
  58. // Support your local bike shop.Never buy bikes, parts or accessories online. Going into your local shop, asking myriad inane questions, tying up the staff’s time, then going online to buy is akin to sleeping with your best friend’s wife, then having a beer with him after. If you do purchase parts online, be prepared to mount and maintain them yourself. If you enter a shop with parts you have bought online and expect them to fit them, be prepared to be told to see your online seller for fitting and warranty help.
  59. // Hold your line.Ride predictably, and don’t make sudden movements. And, under no circumstances, are you to deviate from your line.
  60. // Ditch the washer-nut and valve-stem cap.You are not, under any circumstances, to employ the use of the washer-nut and valve-stem cap that come with your inner-tubes or tubulars. They are only supplied to meet shipping regulations. They are useless when it comes to tubes and tires.
  61. // Like your guns, saddles should be smooth and hard.Under no circumstances may your saddle have more than 3mm of padding. Special allowances will be made for stage racing when physical pain caused by subcutaneous cysts and the like (“saddle sores”) are present. Under those conditions, up to 5mm of padding will be allowed – it should be noted that this exception is only temporary until the condition has passed or been excised. A hardman would not change their saddle at all but instead cut a hole in it to relieve pressure on the delicate area. It is noted that if Rule #48 and/or Rule #5 is observed then any “padding” is superfluous.7
  62. // You shall not ride with earphones.Cycling is about getting outside and into the elements and you don’t need to be listening to Queen or Slayer in order to experience that. Immerse yourself in the rhythm and pain, not in whatever 80’s hair band you call “music”.   See Rule #5 and ride your bike.8
  63. // Point in the direction you’re turning.Signal a left turn by pointing your left arm to the left. To signal a right turn, simply point with your right arm to the right. This one is, presumably, mostly for Americans: that right-turn signal that Americans are taught to make with your left arm elbow-out and your forearm pointing upwards was developed for motor-vehicles prior to the invention of the electric turn signal since it was rather difficult to reach from the driver-side all the way out the passenger-side window to signal a right turn. On a bicycle, however, we don’t have this limitation and it is actually quite easy to point your right arm in the direction you are turning. The American right-turn signal just makes you look like you’re waving “hello” to traffic.
  64. // Cornering confidence increases with time and experience.This pattern continues until it falls sharply and suddenly.
  65. // Maintain and respect your machine.Bicycles must adhere to the Principle of Silence and as such must be meticulously maintained. It must be cherished, and when leaning it against a wall, must be leaned carefully such that only the bars, saddle, or tires come in contact with the wall or post.  This is true even when dismounting prior to collapsing after the World Championship Time Trial. No squeaks, creaks, or chain noise allowed. Only the soothing hum of your tires upon the tarmac and the rhythm of your breathing may be audible when riding. When riding the Pave, the sound of chain slap is acceptable. The Principle of Silence can be extended to say that if you are suffering such that your breathing begins to adversely affect the enjoyment of the other riders in the bunch, you are to summarily sit up and allow yourself to be dropped.10
  66. // No  mirrors.Mirrors are allowed on your (aptly named) Surly Big Dummy or your Surly Long Haul Trucker. Not on your road steed. Not on your Mountain bike. Not on your helmet. If someone familiar with The Rules has sold you such an abomination, return the mirror and demand a refund, plus interest and damages.
  67. // Do your time in the wind.Nobody likes a wheel sucker. You might think you’re playing a smart tactical game by letting everyone else do the work while you sit on, but races (even Town Sign Sprints) are won through cooperation and spending time on the rivet, flogging yourself and taking risks. Riding wheels and jumping past at the end is one thing and one thing only: poor sportsmanship.
  68. // Rides are to be measured by quality, not quantity.Rides are to be measured by the quality of their distance and never by distance alone. For climbing rides, distances should be referred to by the amount of vertical covered; flat and rolling rides should be referred to by their distance and average speed. For example, declaring “We rode 4km” would assert that 4000m were climbed during the ride, with the distance being irrelevant. Conversely, a flat ride of 150km at 23kmh is not something that should be discussed in an open forum and Rule #5 must be reviewed at once.7
  69. // Cycling shoes and bicycles are made for riding.Any walking conducted while wearing cycling shoes must be strictly limited. When taking a slash or filling bidons during a 200km ride (at 38kmh, see Rule #68) one is to carefully stow one’s bicycle at the nearest point navigable by bike and walk the remaining distance. It is strictly prohibited that under any circumstances a cyclist should walk up a steep incline, with the obvious exception being when said incline is blocked by riders who crashed because you are on the Koppenberg. For clarification, see Rule #5.7
  70. // The purpose of competing is to win.End of. Any reference to not achieving this should be referred immediately to Rule #5.11
  71. // Train Properly.Know how to train properly and stick to your training plan. Ignore other cyclists with whom you are not intentionally riding. The time for being competitive is not during your training rides, but during competition.
  72. // Legs speak louder than words.Unless you routinely demonstrate your riding superiority and the smoothness of your Stroke, refrain from discussing your power meter, heartrate, or any other riding data.  Also see Rule #74.
  73. // Gear and brake cables should be cut to optimum length.Cables should create a perfect arc around the headtube and, whenever possible, cross under the downtube. Right shifter cable should go to the left cable stop and vice versa.
  74. // V Meters or small computers only.Forego the data and ride on feel; little compares to the pleasure of riding as hard as your mind will allow. Learn to read your body, meditate on Rule #5, and learn to push yourself to your limit. Power meters, heart rate monitors and GPS are bulky, ugly and superfluous. Any cycle computer, if deemed necessary, should be simple, small, mounted on the stem and wireless.
  75. // Race numbers are for races.Remove it from your frame before the next training ride because no matter how cool you think it looks, it does not look cool. Unless you are in a race. In which case it looks cool.
  76. // Helmets are to be hung from your stem.When not worn, helmets are to be clipped to the stem and draped over your handlebars thusly.
  77. // Respect the earth; don’t litter.Cycling is not an excuse to litter. Do not throw your empty gel packets, energy bar wrappers or punctured tubes on the road or in the bush. Stuff em in your jersey pockets, and repair that tube when you get home.12
  78. // Remove unnecessary gear.When racing in a criterium of 60 minutes or less the second (unused) water bottle cage must be removed in order to preserve the aesthetic of the racing machine.13
  79. // Fight for your town lines.Town lines must be contested or at least faked if you’re not in to it or too shagged to do anything but pedal the bike.
  80. // Always be Casually Deliberate.Waiting for others pre-ride or at the start line pre-race, you must be tranquilo, resting on your top tube thusly. This may be extended to any time one is aboard the bike, but not riding it, such as at stop lights.15
  81. // Don’t talk it up.Rides and crashes may only be discussed and recounted in detail when the rider required external assistance in recovery or recuperation. Otherwise refer to Rule #5.
  82. // Close the gap.Whilst riding in cold and/or  Rule #9 conditions replete with arm warmers, under no circumstances is there to be any exposed skin between the hems of your kit and the hems of your arm warmers. If this occurs, you either need to wear a kit that fits you properly or increase the size of your guns. Arm warmers may, however, be shoved to the wrists in Five and Dime scenarios, particularly those involving Rule #9 conditions. The No-Gap Principle also applies to knee and leg warmers with the variation that these are under no circumstances to be scrunched down around the ankles; Merckx have mercy on whomever is caught in such a sad, sorry state. It is important to note that while one can wear arm warmers without wearing knee or leg warmers, one cannot wear knee or leg warmers without wearing arm warmers (or a long sleeve jersey). It is completely inappropriate to have uncovered arms, while covering the knees, with the exception of brief periods of time when the arm warmers may be shoved to the wrists while going uphill in a Five and Dime situation. If the weather changes and one must remove a layer, the knee/leg coverings must go before the arm coverings. If that means that said rider must take off his knee or leg warmers while racing, then this is a skill he must be accomplished in. The single exception would be before an event in which someone plans on wearing neither arm or leg warmers while racing, but would like to keep the legs warm before the event starts; though wearing a long sleeve jersey over the racing kit at this time is also advised. One must not forget to remove said leg warmers. 16
  83. // Be self-sufficient.Unless you are followed by a team car, you will repair your own punctures. You will do so expediently, employing your own skills, using your own equipment, and without complaining that your expensive tyres are too tight for your puny thumbs to fit over your expensive rim. The fate of a rider who has failed to equip himself pursuant to Rule #31, or who knows not how to use said equipment, shall be determined at the discretion of any accompanying or approaching rider in accordance with Rule #84.17
  84. // Follow the Code.Consistently with The Code Of The Domestique, the announcement of a flat tyre in a training ride entitles – but does not oblige – all riders then present in the bunch to cease riding without fear of being labelled Pussies. All stopped riders are thereupon entitled – but not obliged – to lend assistance, instruction and/or stringent criticism of the tyre mender’s technique. The duration of a Rule #84 stop is entirely discretionary, but is generally inversely proportional to the duration of the remaining time available for post-ride espresso.17
  85. // Descend like a Pro.All descents shall be undertaken at speeds commonly regarded as “ludicrous” or “insane” by those less talented. In addition all corners will be traversed in an outside-inside-outside trajectory, with the outer leg extended and the inner leg canted appropriately (but not too far as to replicate a motorcycle racer, for you are not one), to assist in balance and creation of an appealing aesthetic. Brakes are generally not to be employed, but if absolutely necessary, only just prior to the corner. Also see Rule #64.18
  86. // Don’t half-wheel.Never half-wheel your riding partners; it’s terrible form – it is always the other guy who sets the pace. Unless, of course, you are on the rivet, in which case it’s an excellent intimidation technique.22
  87. // The Ride Starts on Time. No exceptions.The upside of always leaving on time is considerable. Others will be late exactly once. You signal that the sanctity of this ride, like all rides, is not something with which you should muck. You demonstrate, not with words but with actions, your commitment. As a bonus, you make more time for post-ride espresso. “On Time”, of course, is taken to mean at V past the hour or half hour.
  88. // Don’t surge.When rolling onto the front to take your turn in the wind, see Rule #67, do not suddenly lift the pace unless trying to establish a break. The key to maintaining a high average speed is to work with your companions and allow no gaps to form in the line. It is permissible to lift the pace gradually and if this results in people being dropped then they have been ridden off your wheel and are of no use to the bunch anyway. If you are behind someone who jumps on the pedals when they hit the front do not reprimand the offender with cries of ‘Don’t Surge’ unless the offender is a Frenchman named Serge.
  89. // Pronounce it Correctly.All races shall be referred to by the name given in its country of origin, and care shall be taken to pronounce the name as well as possible. For Belgian Races, it is preferable to choose the name given in its region of origin, though it is at the speaker’s discretion to use either the Flemish or Wallonian pronunciation. This principle shall also be extended to apply to riders’ names, bicycle and component marquees, and cycling accoutrements.
  90. // Never Get Out of the Big Ring.If it gets steeper, just push harder on the pedals. When pressed on the matter, the Apostle Johan Museeuw simply replied, “Yes, why would you slow down?” It is, of course, acceptable to momentarily shift into the inner ring when scaling the 20% ramps of the Kapelmuur.
  91. // No Food On Training Rides Under Four Hours.This one also comes from the Apostle, Johan Museeuw, who said to @frank: “Yes, no food on rides under four hours. You need to lose some weight.” Or, as Fignon put it, sometimes, when we train, we simply have to go out to meet the Man with the Hammer. The exception is, of course, hard rides over two hours and races. Also, if you’re planning on being out for more than four hours, start eating before you get hungry. This also applies to energy drink supplements.
  92. // No Sprinting From the HoodsThe only exception is riders whose name starts with Guiseppe and ends with Saronni. See the Goodwood Worlds in 82.24
  93. // Descents are not for recovery. Recovery Ales are for RecoveryDescents are meant to be as hard and demanding as – and much more dangerous than – the climbs. Climb hard, descend to close a gap or open one. Descents should hurt, not be a time for recovery. Recovery is designated only for the pub and for shit-talking.25
  94. // Use the correct tool for the job, and use the tool correctly.Bicycle maintenance is an art; tools are designed to serve specific purposes, and it is essential that the Velominatus learns to use each tool properly when working on their loyal machine.
  95. // Never lift your bike over your head.Under no circumstances is it acceptable to raise one’s machine above your head. The only exception is when placing it onto a car’s roof-rack.

Posts related to The Rules may be found here.

Submit your suggestions in the posts, or via email here.

Credits

1 Thanks to Geof for this submission.
2 Stijn Devolder on Rule #5, in defense of staying in Belgium when his teammates went off to train in sunny Spain: “It is not so cold that you freeze on to your bike. You go from a temperature of zero (Celsius) to minus one and you’re not dead; It hardens your character.”
3 It is possible for experts to mix these matching guidelines successfully without breaking The Rules.  This is a very risky undertaking and can yield unpredictable results.  Proceed carefully and, if in doubt, run your configuration by the Keepers for approval.
4 Famous quote by Greg LeMond, hardman and American Cycling legend. Greg Henderson quote courtesy of Neil. (Incidentally, it does not matter how fast you go, but you may never give up.)
5 Thanks to James for his sound input on modifying this submission from it’s original draft which read, “An exception to wearing a cap when not riding is: If you have a soigneur (you don’t) and he places the cap on your head after you’ve just won a mountain top finish or soloed into the velodrome (you haven’t).”
6 Thanks to Rob for this submission.
7 Thanks to Rob (different from Rob in 6) for this submission.
8 Thanks to Saul at Speedy Reedy for this submission.
9 Thanks to BarryRoubaix for the astute observation regarding Time Trial Bikes.
10Thanks to Souleur for the astute observation regarding the Principle of Silence.
11 Thanks to Charlie for this addition.
12 Thanks to Jarvis and Steampunk for their tidy ways.
13 Thanks to Cyclops for this sensibly aesthetic addition.
15 Thanks to SupermanSam via our friends at CyclingTipsBlog.
16 Thanks to Rusty Tool Shed and Reid Beloni for assistance in helping craft the language of this Rule.
17 Thanks to Karim for this most accurate contribution.
18 Thanks to SterlingMatt for this most accurate contribution.
21 There are variants of this story, including one which is more likely to be the actual way this story unfolded, which goes that Sean Kelly is met by his wife after a the ’84 Amstel Gold Race and they get in his Citroen AX: “Ah, Sean” says his beloved wife, “in your life the car comes first, then the bike, then me.” “You got the order wrong,” Kelly scowls, “the bike comes first.” Thanks to Oli Brooke-White for helping sort out the details of the story.
22 Thanks to David Ezzy for this excellent contribution and fantastic ride out to Kaupo and back.
23 Thanks to Donnie Bugno for this most accurate contribution.
24 Thanks to Robert Millar – yes the Robert Millar for filling this most glaring omission.
25 Thanks to @urbanwhitetrash for the submission.

12,462 Replies to “The Rules”

  1. Salvete!  New to the V, but not to the v.  Big thanks to everyone for this compendium of velo-sense.  Reading the rules was like seeing the voice in my head transcribed to letters.  EXCEPT Rule #41.  Not the rule, absolutely true:  QR’s must be thoroughly thought out and positioned correctly.  But not as described.  QR’s should be positioned vertically, pointing to 6:00, on the non-drive side of the bike so that support de cycleste may easily remove your flattened tire on the wheel and replace it with a new one.  Its not cool to make them pull the lever in any direction other than up, towards your hands or ass as you firmly support your steed.  Makes you both look like “douches”.

    Love to all, rubber side up, pax.

  2. @wiscot Didn’t “Belov” say something like “you go get him, ding-dong…” in around or near that shot?  American Flyers:  Worst depiction of athletes, cycling or, frankly, humans ever.

  3. Need a rule clarification/interpretation on SHOE COLOR. I am betting the proper rule color is black, with small exception for white. No colors. Correct?

  4. Okay, so I don’t know if this is the best place to share this, so please direct me to such place, and if there is a next time…  I shall use such place.

    This weekend I participated in my second race.  A weekend omnium, although for me, I only participated in the TT and road race.  Since it was also my club putting on the event, I was heavily involved in the volunteering effort for the weekend, which meant little sleep and many hours on my feet.  The TT was was quite the experience in a battle against the forces of nature.  Heavy fog and cold air.  Although I was registered first, somehow I was second out of the starting gate, and had a rabbit to chase.  Ultimately the thick fog worked against me in this respect, but as I catch a glimpse of a figure through the fog, the fire was lit.  Once it was over, I found myself to be the Cat 5 winner with 25 seconds on second place.   Although I was ecstatic with my results, it does little for my upgrade to Cat 4, and my focus was turned towards the road race, very much eager to get it under way.  T minus 30 hours….

    I received countless pieces of advice from fellow club members, mostly Cat 3 guys, and had a rough plan for my race.  It was simple really.  Whenever I felt like the field was taking it too easy, I was to go up front and make them work.  Don’t let them take a rest, and hope they’re more worn down at the end than me.  But otherwise, conserve energy for the final climb, and let it rip.

    So as expected, on our first climb which has a bit of a false flat 2/3 of the way up, the pack sat up and took it easy.  Immediately I come around, work them over the top, and down the back.  Then we start our 16 km leg into a 24 – 32 km/h headwind.  Thus started the cat and mouse game, which quickly grew old.  Basically, some brave soul would go hard charging into the wind, quickly tire out, and be left out there to die.  No one wanted to come up to the front to face the wrath of the wind that was ripping off the nearby lake.

    I took one turn early, pushed the pace a bit, and when ready for some relief, was also left hung out to dry.  I get it, its a race, you want me to tire out and explode.  Fine.  But I’ll stop here in the middle of the road and make you fuckers work too.  So I sit up, start looking around at the beautiful scenery we were told was along this route.  So I drink some water, and wait…..  Finally someone decides to take a dig, and I decide that I shall not be fooled again by these assholes, and my time in this headwind is over.  The cat and mouse turns to Mickey Mouse, but I just sit in and watch.

    Finally we turn out of the headwind and start heading slightly up.  I take it easy, and sit in for a bit more and wait to see how the group climbs, and what they do at the top.  As expected there is a bit of relaxation once the field crests the hill.  Suddenly, I start getting a wild idea in my head.  I know this course very well.  Every pot hole, dog and hill.  We’re coming up to a stretch I know I can hammer, and something is brewing.

    At the bottom of the hill is a left turn, followed by a long strait, that today will have one hell of a tailwind.  Without really thoroughly formulating a plan, I get in the drops and work my way past the field.  As I pass the front, I tuck it in a little more and dig, lean into the last curve and accelerate to the intersection.  I actually run up on our lead out vehicle, and have to slow up a bit while corner marshals wave us through.

    I make the turn, and with 20 km to the finish, I raise up out of the saddle and dig.  (later I will look back at my Garmin data, and see numbers that are just mind boggling).  I dig as deep as I can, maybe a little too deep, because I suddenly think, “Oh no… I can’t keep this“.  So I quickly take a look under my right arm and see a wheel.  “Okay, someone came with me”  Then I check over my left shoulder to find the pack.  “Holy fuck, it worked!  I gaped them….”  

    I just attacked the field, what the hell am I doing?”  yes, that’s right, now I decide to ask myself, what do you expect to do with this attack….??  So I check over my right shoulder to see who came with me.  Oh hey, I know this guy, he’ll work with me, and a short lived sense of relief comes over me.  I ease over and yell “We can make this stick“, but suddenly he accelerates.   I’m unprepared and caught off guard by the acceleration, and I cannot grab his wheel.  “Asshole!

    So I settle in, bury my head and try to keep pace with him; he does not get very far away.  However, keeping tabs on the field, a rider starts to bridge the gap, soon followed by another.  By the next turn there are 4 of us who have separated from the field, but not yet formed into a group of our own, and the field slowly gaining.  I think to myself, “…if we just make the next turn, ahead of the field, we can get together and make this work…”  We do make the turn, and 3 of the four of us agree to work together.  Myself, and the two riders who bridged the gap.  He who accelerated passed me after my attack, played weak and tired, and rode our wheels as we rotated.

    With 6 km to go, I see the moto official come up behind me.  What I don’t realize right then, is that she is coming up to time our gap to the main field (which a teammate later tells me they were told was at 45 sec).  What I did assume at that moment, is that her presence behind me meant one thing, the break I started is working.  Then, at that same moment, the full weekend of helping to put on a race caught up with me, and I feel tanked.  Eventually I cannot hold the third wheel of our little group, and fall off the pace.  I get angry, ask myself, “What’s wrong with you, you fucking pussy, get up there!!!”  So I muster up one final dig, in an attempt to reel in third place before the last climb, but to no avail.  We all cross the finish line in sight of each other, but not close enough for me to fight for better positioning, and I take 4th.  Still holding the 45 second gap on the field.

    From the point of attack to the finish, I spent the 28 hardest minutes of my life on a bicycle.  Going down the road in a 4 man break, gasping for oxygen and speed, brief glimpses flash through my brain of the pros doing it for real on TV.  Somehow this looks much easier for them.  Although its hard to imagine one could do so in such a state of pain and suffering, I have to wonder if they have as much fun as I just did.

  5. @VeloSix Strong work. Sounds like a blast but a shame that the organisational efforts left you struggling at the death.

    What position did the wheel sucker get? Next time you might be a little more cautious about someone you’ve just dragged clear of the pack.

  6. @andrew

    Thanks!

    @Chris

    Thanks!  The wheel sucker took 2nd, although maybe his plan the whole time…. after all it is Cat 5, and is basically every man for themselves (from what I’m told).  He even told me once “You guys are stronger than me, I don’t think I can keep this up”  That’s at least what my brain told me my ears heard him say….

    At the end of the day, several valuable lessons learned for the next race.

  7. @VeloSix Excellent stuff and nice write up. Well ridden too.

    You and the break riders did well – if your Cat 5 is the same as UK Cat 4 (entry level) then it is unusual for any break to stick. Individually people don’t have the fitness to attack and then stay away  but collectively the bunch riders each have 30 seconds of effort that they will use to chase down.

    I think people wrongly focus a lot on the finish and not the break, but what you did was actually perfect tactics. No you didn’t win but by getting in the break you made sure you would get something between 1st and 4th. Much better odds and result than if the bunch had stayed together with less risk of hitting the ground in a crazy sprint finish.

  8. @VeloSix  – Great write up, top shelf.  Sounds like you had a very successful weekend – excellent riding.

  9. Great story. Ah, the fun of graded bunch racing. So much better than racing to handicap times.

    “Without really thoroughly formulating a plan, I get in the drops…” That’s all you need right there!

  10. Thank you to bringing this rules to cyclist.

    I specially like the dissociation between cyclists, triathletes and an hipsters in these statements.

    The only important thing that I think is missing is about bike cleaning and specially the chain cleaning (and chain tattoo in the same idea). Something about that should be added to Rule #65.

  11. @Julien

    The only important thing that I think is missing is about bike cleaning and specially the chain cleaning (and chain tattoo in the same idea). Something about that should be added to Rule #65.

    I think it more or less goes without saying that chain-ring tattoos do not Look Fantastic.  That said, this Pedalwan is still quietly proud that he no longer comes home with his pea-shooters besmirched.

  12. @ChrisO@unversio@HMBSteve@Bianchi Denti

    I’m glad you enjoyed the read, I enjoyed the writing.

    Headed to my next race this weekend, and by the registration list, it looks like the makings of a good race at the front.  A big climb in the middle, and a handful of strong climbers in the mix.  Looking forward to the experience, and inching my way towards an upgrade (where I have a few more teammates, and hopefully better practiced tactics)

  13. What’s up everybody, here every person is sharing
    these familiarity, thus it’s fastidious to
    read this blog, and I used to pay a quick visit this weblog
    everyday.

  14. Apparently we have it all wrong.  Maybe a copyright muck up of sorts as well.

    The Rules
    In CyclocrosskoloLifestyleMichiganMountain BikingRoad Racing on April 18, 2014 at 10:16 am

    Thor

    It’s even more simple than you’ve been told. 

    The Rules

    1. Don’t be a dick.

    2. Ride whatever the hell you want.

    3. No one gives a shit if your bar tape matches your seat.

    4. The bike comes first, right behind family and friends and making a living.

    5. Riding in bad weather makes you better. But don’t be stupid about it.

    6. If you aren’t having fun, stop.

    7. Don’t overlap wheels. Just fuckin’ don’t.

    8. Don’t be late to a group ride. Be early.

    9. If you’re dropped three times, do your own thing. (See Gentlemen’s Ride)

    10. If it’s a no-drop ride, don’t drop people. Ass.

    11. Support your local bike shop. And bring them food sometimes.

    12. If you race more than 3 times a year, you are in Sport division. If you podium twice, move up. If you win, move up. Getting dead last in Expert is better than winning in Sport. Getting DFL in Pro is better than winning in Expert. No one cares if you win. We all have to go to work on Monday. Test yourself.

    13. If you get plate number 13, you turn it upside down. You just do.

    14. Do not make start line excuses. “I haven’t been riding”, “I’ve was sick last night”, “I’m too hung over”, “My bike is too heavy”, and the like, are all your fault. Just ride, congratulate the winner, and hang out with your pals after. It’s all good, man.

    15. Blogs are stupid. Don’t listen to them, and never take them seriously.

    Glossary

    Coffee Ride: Easy, Pease-y. You ride bikes slow and go to a place to drink coffee. Do not fuck up the coffee part. Jeez.

    Gentlemen’s Ride: A group ride consisting of any number of riders. Fast but conversational pace on the flats, with hard efforts on climbs. Strict rolling regroups over the top of climbs. Everyone gets back on the first time, no exceptions. Second climb, rolling regroup. If you are dropped two or three times, do the gentlemanly thing and finish the ride alone. If you’re crushing everyone, do the gentlemanly thing and make sure the bulk of the ride stays together. Most of the group should finish together. Ride leader makes any other decisions.

    No-Drop Ride: No one is left behind. Ever. That said, make sure a pace is announced and enforced, and do not get in over your head. If it is no drop at 18mph and you can only do 14, think long and hard about going.

    Ice Cream Ride: No spandex. 10-12mph. It ends in ice cream, preferably out of a small,  miniature Detroit Tigers helmet.

    Recovery Ride: If someone says they are going on a recovery ride, they are going to try to drop you on every climb. Guaranteed.

    Courtesy of kolotc.wordpress.com/2014/04/18/the-rules/

  15. Here are the rules for the other 98% of us who ride bikes; http://kolotc.wordpress.com/2014/04/18/the-rules/

  16. @Julian Do they promote a Harden The Fuck Up ride? The Ice Cream ride would be way too embarrassing — or just too assing.

  17. @Chris  As a female Ironman triathlete, I just want to say that I am in no way offended by the RULES, as when I race with a cycling team, the aerobars come off, and the team kit goes on…but I’m sorry…the socks stay at ankle length, as I am female and can get away with this. I could see where a male doing this would in turn, be called out by you as a “douche,” which is perfectly acceptable.  Further, even if I swim before my ride, it’s still a RACE when it’s 112 bloody miles.  It is certainly not the same TYPE of race as road cycling, no – I will give you that…but bloody hell – 112 MILES (Ironman doesn’t do Kilometers, chaps…) – whilst anticipating a marathon?  Don’t hate dudes. Just DON’T. I swear, I’ll sic Chrissie Wellington on your arses! Best, Tristen

  18. @Tristen Bonacci

    @Chris As a female Ironman triathlete, I just want to say that I am in no way offended by the RULES, as when I race with a cycling team, the aerobars come off, and the team kit goes on…but I’m sorry…the socks stay at ankle length, as I am female and can get away with this. I could see where a male doing this would in turn, be called out by you as a “douche,” which is perfectly acceptable. Further, even if I swim before my ride, it’s still a RACE when it’s 112 bloody miles. It is certainly not the same TYPE of race as road cycling, no – I will give you that…but bloody hell – 112 MILES (Ironman doesn’t do Kilometers, chaps…) – whilst anticipating a marathon? Don’t hate dudes. Just DON’T. I swear, I’ll sic Chrissie Wellington on your arses! Best, Tristen

    Tristen,

    It seems you Get It. Welcome, and please stay!! This board needs more women. It’s a massive sausage fest.

    -c

  19. @Tristen Bonacci

    Further, even if I swim before my ride, it’s still a RACE when it’s 112 bloody miles. It is certainly not the same TYPE of race as road cycling, no – I will give you that…but bloody hell – 112 MILES (Ironman doesn’t do Kilometers, chaps…) – whilst anticipating a marathon? Don’t hate dudes. Just DON’T. I swear, I’ll sic Chrissie Wellington on your arses! Best, Tristen

    I suggest you read Rule #42 again.

    None of your points are in any way at odds with the rule as written. As you say, “Don’t Hate”.

  20. @Julian

    Here are the rules for the other 98% of us who ride bikes; http://kolotc.wordpress.com/2014/04/18/the-rules/

    @pakrat

    Apparently we have it all wrong. Maybe a copyright muck up of sorts as well.

    The Rules

    1. Don’t be a dick.

    Hmm.

    15. Blogs are stupid. Don’t listen to them, and never take them seriously.

    Someone is taking it way too seriously.

    Gentlemen’s Ride: A group ride consisting of any number of riders. Fast but conversational pace on the flats, with hard efforts on climbs. Strict rolling regroups over the top of climbs. Everyone gets back on the first time, no exceptions. Second climb, rolling regroup. If you are dropped two or three times, do the gentlemanly thing and finish the ride alone. If you’re crushing everyone, do the gentlemanly thing and make sure the bulk of the ride stays together. Most of the group should finish together. Ride leader makes any other decisions.

    I like this. I rarely have time for coffee rides.

  21. Chrissie Wellington’s a phenomenon.  Wrote a pretty intense book, too.

  22. @Tristen Bonacci

    @Chris As a female Ironman triathlete, I just want to say that I am in no way offended by the RULES, as when I race with a cycling team, the aerobars come off, and the team kit goes on…but I’m sorry…the socks stay at ankle length, as I am female and can get away with this. I could see where a male doing this would in turn, be called out by you as a “douche,” which is perfectly acceptable. Further, even if I swim before my ride, it’s still a RACE when it’s 112 bloody miles. It is certainly not the same TYPE of race as road cycling, no – I will give you that…but bloody hell – 112 MILES (Ironman doesn’t do Kilometers, chaps…) – whilst anticipating a marathon? Don’t hate dudes. Just DON’T. I swear, I’ll sic Chrissie Wellington on your arses! Best, Tristen

    We don’t hate. We are though, honor bound to keep to the style and traditions set down before us, preserve them and teach them to the upcoming generations. And Merckx save us, Triathletes (though quite attractive on the whole) can have a dreadful sense of style i.e. those Goddamn knee high socks, wearing arm warmers with sleeveless jerseys (wtf?), etc. and their traditions were set by men wearing European beach wear.

    Some of us are also quite shitty in the whole flopping in water and the running around thingy that you do. And yes, I second ChrissyOne, please stay.

  23. @Tristen Bonacci I take offense to your inferior standards of measurement. Ironman does it nicely in kilometres for the rest of us, and 180 sounds much bigger than a measly 112. Sincerely yours, European Road-Racer and Triathlete and son of one qualified badass.

  24. The Douche of these set of rules is only surpassed by the Douche of Triathletes and rich guys who climb Everest…

    Somewhere there’s someone climbing a mountain pass with loaded panniers containing everything he or she needs to subsist who knows just how much of a poser list this is.

  25. Great list of rules.

    Can you add a rule about how to negotiate stop signs and traffic lights when leading a large pace line on a training ride?

  26. @Mark Harmon

    Great list of rules.

    Can you add a rule about how to negotiate stop signs and traffic lights when leading a large pace line on a training ride?

    You mean like, “Obey the Rules”?

  27. @ChewbaccaD

    So what is it about yourself that makes you feel the need to poke your head into a community that’s new to you and pipe off like that? It’s really not necessary. Nor are we douches. Spend more that 30 seconds and ease into it a bit more and you’ll find that the mood is decidedly light. Quick to judge, quick to anger, slow to understand.

  28. @Marko

    @ChewbaccaD

    So what is it about yourself that makes you feel the need to poke your head into a community that’s new to you and pipe off like that? It’s really not necessary. Nor are we douches. Spend more that 30 seconds and ease into it a bit more and you’ll find that the mood is decidedly light. Quick to judge, quick to anger, slow to understand.

    [ Kip voice ] Dang it Marko, I was quick to judge and anger. Was gonna say “Like anyone could know that ChewbaccaDouche!”

  29. We call Gentlemen’s rides Social rides. Simple reason being ladies are just as welcome.

  30. @Weldertron

    We call Gentlemen’s rides Social rides. Simple reason being ladies are just as welcome.

    There’s that, sure. That and moustache wax gets all over your bar tape otherwise.

  31. @Josh Robinson

    Apologies if this has been asked or indeed answered before: is there an excuse for this apparent infraction of Rule #36?

    Well, he’s not on the bike in that video, so that could be seen as acceptable.

    However, IMO, aviators should never be worn, unless you are, in fact, an aviator. Even then I think they’re a bit questionable.

  32. @KW

    @Josh Robinson

    Apologies if this has been asked or indeed answered before: is there an excuse for this apparent infraction of Rule #36?

    Well, he’s not on the bike in that video, so that could be seen as acceptable.

    However, IMO, aviators should never be worn, unless you are, in fact, an aviator. Even then I think they’re a bit questionable.

    You just have to back it up is all.

  33. @unversio

    I would never argue with The Badger–we all know he can throw a punch. And frankly, Coppi could wear just about whatever the hell he wanted and look the epitome of cool. (It should be noted though, that Coppi is also not on a bike in that pic.)

    However, on Cav, I think the aviators look douchey. That’s just my opinion. It’s right, but still just my opinion.

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