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. @david

    Couldn’t agree more. These are rules, not guidelines. Moreover, you can never, ever decide that it’s okay to breach Rule #5.

  2. Souleur
    And back to Rules: Rule #29-thou shalt not use saddlebags. I have a terrible thing. What about if one runs tubulars. Can one properly have a tubular folded, bound by a toestrap (campy) and have it stored under the saddle as spare??
    Gratie Cognoscenti….(bow)….

    Tubular? Properly folded? Campy toe strap? Thats what the rails under the seat are for! You did not need to ask.

    david :

    The Rule breaking meta-rule is dangerous. Even Opus Dei does not stick its finger in the eye of the Vatican.

    But somebody should.

  3. @all
    No Rule-Breaking Meta-Rule! Are you guys crazy? That’s like adding an Amendment to the Constitution that says the Constitution doesn’t count.

    There is, however, a Meta Principle that binds The Rules together, as David pointed out earlier. This Principle is based on the notion that The Rules are meant to capture the spirit of the rich history, tradition, and culture of our sport.

    There is some room for interpretation, which is where the Cognoscenti come in. They argue that some Rules weaken the purity of the Principle whereas Rule Holists claim that embracing them all is what the Gods of our sport who writ The Rules truly meant.

    You can only break a Rule if you can justify how the Rule breaks with the Meta Principle of The Rules.

    Affixing mirrors to your bike or helmet shrouded in the arrogant notion that your family would be “better off” if you lived through your bike ride clearly breaks with this Principle. See Rule #4 and Rule #11. As does placing your front break on the right. The claim that motor bikes are set up this way is rubbish. Fuck me, but aren’t we riding bicyles? No motors, right (right?)? Are you also planning to afix a clutch to the left and put the rear brake in your crankset?

    Come the fuck on.

    The Rules Meta Principle: The purpose behind each Rule is to capture the embodiment of cycling’s rich History, Tradition, and Culture.

  4. @John. My C50 is hand rolled, glued and tested between the soft, downy thighs of Italian virgins. Besides that, when suitably battle scarred, I’m beginning to think they have a distinctly cool character that’s all their own. Mine was positively glowing with pride when I took it back to the motherland recently – I damn near bought the fucker it’s own espresso….

    Most winning-est Carbon in the Queen of the Classics too, or was until recently methinks???

    I think it’s less about material, more about encapsulating the spirit of a thousand Pasquales who realised the dreams of a generation of rouleurs with a hot welding torch and half smoked roll up.

  5. @david My remarks on the meta-rule are probably confusing. Any discussion of a meta-rule for violating the Rules should be held secretly behind closed doors amongst the Cognoscenti and then only in very quiet whispers. The public assertion or contemplation of such a rule would be, as I mentioned, like Opus Dei publicly jabbing it’s finger into the eye of the Vatican.

  6. @all
    fuck me, you all got a bit busy today.

    @geof @rob @brett
    You’re all fucking wrong about the mirrors. You can have one, but you’ll be wrong.

    About them brakes. Swapping the brakes from “British” to “Euro” was the first Velominati thing I did ever at the age of 16. That is how important I hold this proposed rule.

    @rob @david
    rob +1 on David’s issue with drinks. Rule #56 is essential. Just imagine, sitting at a small, wobbly metal table in the leafy-shade of a rustic European town square, your kit and body is velominati perfect and your photographer has been briefed about pedal angles and that it can only be black & white. You get the photos a few days later and fuck me, don’t you look a total twat trying not to spill your oversized mug of coffee while trying to wipe the frothy coffee from your nose.

    I didn’t realise there was an Italian rule. Personally I prefer French things over Italian. I’ll take your Colnago’s, Pinarello’s and Gios’ and raise you Lapierre, Gitane and LOOK.

    @all
    The Cognoscenti argue that some Rules weaken the purity of the Principle, yet they like weak drinks.

  7. So, has anyone checked to see whether Spartacus has his front brake on the left or the right … ?

  8. @Geof
    Dear all,
    As an Italian, I feel that the rules reflect a real Italian spirit of riding.
    I was riding in the 90’s in Italy and i, and everyone else, would have not been caught dead breaking any of the above rules.
    That said I must remind you that 15 years ago, the rules would have forbidden the use of large water bottles and double water cages;Helmets were for freds, oversized tubing,even the steel kind, was strictly forbidden and the first clipless pedals were frown upon.
    That is to say that the rules slowly adapt to the improvement of bike technology, but keep the spirit of the tradition alive.

  9. +1 Frank on the mirrors. I can’t believe anyone cares. Really. What are you gonna do, dive in the ditch everytime you have a close call and then say ‘whew, lived through that one’….or just hold your damn line and tell the SOB that drew in close to you that he has an ass whippin next time you see him?? I prefer the angry latter.

    Also on Rules Meta principle: we better be careful that we ‘got a Rule’ but just in case you don’t like it…well…file it under ‘Meta principle’.

    Its like saying see Rule #5, but if it hurts, well maybe just see that rule later tomorrow some other time.

    The outcome will be the same, names need not apply. Next time you ride with your buddies, you’ll be a pussy, so be careful how you justify your ‘exceptions’.

  10. Jarvis, congrats on your Level 1 Velominati status. I wonder if it was this cheap shot that got you over the hump.

    <@all
    The Cognoscenti argue that some Rules weaken the purity of the Principle, yet they like weak drinks.

    My, my. And who wouldn’t know that the mere mention of Coors Light would twist the panties of fastidious Europhiles? (I’ve been doing it for years to get just that effect.) Same thing for my twice now public derision of Rule #56, and my mention of wearing two pairs of tights. There was some artifice in those remarks. Namely, the predictable responses give me the opportunity to again say, as I did in the beginning: What the fuck does that have to do with winning bicycle races?

    I myself have said that the Rules should not just be about what is necessary and sufficient for winning races. It’s not a manual for bike racing. There’s more to cycling than formal racing. Fine, but the question must still be central, or else there’s a real danger of aestheticizing the sport. (Aestheticization: placing less and less value on the goals or aims the practice was originally set up to achieve, and more and more value on the way things appear.)

    From what I’ve seen among amateurs, the sport is already too aestheticized. I.e., too many cyclists are caught up in fashions and trends and appearances and not on winning, or performance generally. They can get away with this because they can sit in the pack. Cycling, as beautiful and painful as it is, has got to be the only sport where weaker, less fit athletes can pretend to compete with first rate athletes. This is due to the laws of physics, of course. And, that fact is a breeding ground for aestheticism.

    John’s comment gives me the opportunity.

    John :@Geof
    Dear all,
    As an Italian, I feel that the rules reflect a real Italian spirit of riding.
    I was riding in the 90’s in Italy and, .. . That said I must remind you that 15 years ago, the rules would have forbidden the use of large water bottles and double water cages;Helmets were for freds, oversized tubing,even the steel kind, was strictly forbidden and the first clipless pedals were frown upon.
    That is to say that the rules slowly adapt to the improvement of bike technology, but keep the spirit of the tradition alive.

    My initial and continuing difficulty with the Rules is that they threaten to aestheticize cycling, to turn it into a fashion governing the way things appear, mostly or completely due to the local and contingent sensibilities of some in-crowd.

    If Eddy Merckx did something, say, kept pristine white bar tape, one also might do so as a symbolic way of invoking the cannibalistic spirit of Eddy Merckx. These sorts of rituals can be very important. (I’m looking for some myself. That’s some of my interest in this site.) But, to make it, or something like it, a condition of being a cyclist is ludicrous. If the contingent sensibilities and quirks of the great heroes of the sport led to them to do, say, or wear certain things, and these bear no causal relationship to winning, or performance generally, then they should not be cited as defining membership in the sport or as a virtue of the sport.

    The first virtue of bicycle racing is hardness. This is why Rule #5 is the The Rule of Rules.

    No, my mention of drinking Coors Light and drinking coffee after rides, so far from failing to adhere to Rule #5, is the manifestation of my commitment to The Rule.

    Fastidious wheel sucker: Oh, but what should I drink at the cafe? A macchiato like the Italians? What did Eddy drink after his rides!?? Should I wear my cap into the cafe? Do you know?

    Rule #5 Fundamentalist: You’re concerned about what to drink after sittin’ on my wheel all day? Harden the fuck up. Drink whatever you feel like drinking. Just, next week you had better put your fucking nose into the wind and try to win a sprint.

  11. That photo of Motorcus was before he took up motorcycles… he rocks right/front, left/clutch now. We’ll probably see him in a full face helmet and these at the Tour.

  12. @david Way to go, David. You’re on a roll. And all fuelled by nothing stronger than Starbucks and Coors. Outstanding.

  13. Buries head in hands “its all my fault, sorry, so sorry”.

    I feel like Mishima and can’t find the right reply…

  14. @david

    This was very beautifully and cogently put. And a very articulate means of saying what I’ve been trying to understand for myself. Pain and suffering in the saddle is not for appearance; it is for a higher purpose, whether that be competition, personal fitness/challenge, escapism, or the sheer and exhilarating need for speed. It is through work that we best understand the physical environment around us and channel the deeper mysteries of the self. To feel the burn in the legs or the lungs on that long and/or steep ascent: there is no better way to find one’s inner self. There’s no better feeling than to have mind and body in total conflict and for the mind to win: “Shut up legs!” Or to know that that wheel sucker doesn’t have an extra gear in his bag and you do.

    Bring the hammer, brothers and sisters: today we ride!

  15. All sorts of promotions. Steampunk, now Level 2. Congrats. I feel the Cognoscenti movement is growing. You, though, may just be a masochist.

    “Or to know that that wheel sucker doesn’t have an extra gear in his bag and you do.”

    God that is a fantastic feeling. It may be cycling specific, or more pronounced in cycling.

  16. @david
    the thing is, I no longer race – or if I do, I am not in a position of fitness to win, therefore for me, the sport is all about the aesthetic. That said,when I did race, there was always an element of practicality thrown in to ensure that I did the most I felt I could to make myself the fittest that I could be. But it didn’t mean that I had to sacrifice adherence to aesthetic principles.

    Your “Rule 5 fundamentalist” comment in post #358 made me think of Allan Pieper and the story of when he was an amateur in Europe. Short of cash, Pieper was willing to sell any race, but you’d still better be prepared to beat him on the road. If you won, you paid him, if he won he took the money. There is probably a principle in this, The Allan Pieper Principle. I’ll work on it.

  17. Jarvis :@allfuck me, you all got a bit busy today.
    @geof @rob @brettYou’re all fucking wrong about the mirrors. You can have one, but you’ll be wrong.

    Absolutely. No fucking question about it.

    About them brakes. Swapping the brakes from “British” to “Euro” was the first Velominati thing I did ever at the age of 16. That is how important I hold this proposed rule.

    Agreed. I have just had the horror of taking receipt of my new TT bike only to find the bike shop had set the brakes up “Brit” style. Now, I am British and I live in Britain so perhaps I shouldn’t fuss – however, I can see no logic to why you would ever have them this way. I was pretty unhappy, especially as I know the mechanic well and had never thought I needed to explain to him my brake set up. Never assume anything.

    I didn’t realise there was an Italian rule. Personally I prefer French things over Italian. I’ll take your Colnago’s, Pinarello’s and Gios’ and raise you Lapierre, Gitane and LOOK.

    Whilst I like Italy and one or two of the things that Italy makes there is a tendency for them to produce beautifully crafted equipment (think cars, motorbikes, speedboats, bicycles) that looks great and works great for a while but then provides you regular opportunities to take it back to where you bought it in order to get it fixed. I absolutely appreciate that this is part of the mystique and allure of all things Italian – that of form over function (is this what the Cognoscenti are pushing as their mantra?) – but I for one have not really bought into it. As for all things French, well, I’m not sure that I want to even start to discuss that. I think that we shouldn’t care what we ride provided that it meets the various additional rules i.e. it isn’t a shit bike with superfluous accoutrements attached (and if it is, you had better have legs like Spartacus).

    However, I am forced to accept that there are issues of appropriateness that should be considered e.g. what is appropriate as a commuter stead (would I be ruled a tit for riding to work on a £5K carbon beauty?)? Should I ride to work on my TT bike? I think we need some direction…

  18. david :@Rob For you, Rob, I had a sixer of Fat Tire last night.

    Thank you!

    Jarvis :@rob
    hold your ground, man.

    You give me inspiration -Inch by inch- No?

  19. @ david: great points and you associate them as only one of the Cognoscentia can. My complements, sincerely.

    And whereas I am in agreement, I do appreciate the flipside of your arguement. Whereas indeed, one must bathe themselves in Rule #5 to truly appreciate the day that the 53×12 is a suffecient gear and there is no need for a 13t moreless 14t.

    And whereas that in and of itself will yeild winning results, what good is it if one did so without STYLE?? That is the flipside of this. There are some simple things, utterly simple that distinguish the ride and the rider. Style that my hero Gino Bartali wore daily. Panache that other sports do not possess. Class that is timeless and continues across generations of riders.

    Sure, you can implement Rule #5 and win, but it is via Rule Holism that we really appreciate the entirity of our passion. Mirrors and all, espresso and all, minus saddlebags and all, idiosynchracies and all.

    Its in our genome as cyclists

  20. @Rob

    My BMW is front right but bikes need to be front left – no exceptions.

    I’ve always loved BMW motorbikes. Well, BMW products in general, I suppose. The engineering, the way everything fits together into a whole. Amazing stuff.

    My dad always rode BMW’s until recently when he traded his last one for (yet) another bicycle. (The guy is the king of Rule #12.) He bought me a R100 RS (blue) for my 16th birthday. He bought it a few years before I turned 16, around the time I became serious about cycling. He sold the bike, after watching me descend in the mountains on a family vacation. “You’re much too interested in speed to survive riding a motorcycle”, I believe is what he said.

  21. So there are things in life that are important and others that are unimportant and then there are those that are just right, not important or unimportant.

    Lets get the simple ones in the “just right” category out of the way; Beer, Coffee and what color your bike is painted. These things are self explanatory to anyone with an eye, taste and money (meaning if you don’t have the cash Coors is the drink of choice), it is not about wanting to be some sort of Euro-trash wannabe.

    Now for the important things; Rule #5 leads the list and all that goes with it both on and off the bike. Doing ones best and then some in a race. Treating women with love and respect, just two of the more difficult that come to mind. Not what color the bike is or if you’re wearing the “right” kit.

    So the point is when the Rule says its about the bike, it ain’t really about the bike its about what IT is in all that relates to the important things in the world of the bike. The important things are things like, what was my time in that time trial and was it a good time from the point of view of Rule #5? And that may even mean you did not win the thing.

    So I now find myself in the position of not being enough of an intellectual nor writer with the words to explain why the Rules are perfect and yet why Rule #5 is the one rule that rules them all. So am I Cog-no-sgetti or a Hole-ist or both?

    Can someone help? Please? Soon… my head hurts.

  22. @Souleur The relationship between style and purpose, or perhaps form and function, has always been mysterious to me.

  23. I suppose I find myself in this posit:

    I implement Rule #5 every day on every ride, one may even say too much and resting too little as I get up and drag my arse to the saddle as the sun rises over the east horizon. Joe Parkins last book, which I am in the middle of has a piece which sums it up well as he said (paraphrased off memory) ‘I finally found my fitness and realized what I had appreciated earlier in my PRO career, you know, that point where the ride can be punishing but my legs take it, and perform instead of the misery of being out of condition when the ride is punishment and I am dying just trying to hang on’.

    That is so true, there is a point that Rule #5 reaps a reward to the rider and I am finding this in June.

    The point however is, I would rather win right…absolutely right as the Rules lead us, honoring our heritage, traditions, flavors and with class than to not.

    To not, simply is to win in a very forgettable fashion, and who wants to do that. I could argue that indeed isn’t even winning if its forgotten the very next day.

    Versus the ride, the gutted effort that didn’t necessarily win but did show heart, legs, style, effort that gains respect the next time you line up, or even spin out a recovery as others acknowledge your worthy recovery:-)

  24. david :@Charlie writes, “. . . that of form over function (is this what the Cognoscenti are pushing as their mantra?)” Just the opposite.

    Agreed! I was trying (clearly unsucessfully) to be sarcastic. Lowest form of humour and all that…

  25. @Souleur, @Rob

    Beautifully said, it brought a tear to mine eye.

    @Charlie, @david, @Rob

    Form follows Function. It’s the famous saying by Louis Sullivan and embraced by his student, one Frank Loyd Wright. But, I believe it was Le Corbusier who further embodied the truth behind aesthetics: so long as the form does indeed follow the function, it should also be aesthetically pleasing. No one wants to sit on a concrete sofa just because it is the purest form of function available. I’d like to toss a cushion on there, too. Maybe a cupholder for me beer. (Side note: never drink beer from a bottle. Pour it in a glass so you can taste it properly. Just saying. Unless it’s Coors or Bud in which case it’s not really beer and you can do what you want.)

    The point is, aestheticizing anything is harmful if it comes at the expense of function. If functionality is upheld, aestheticizing (is that a word?) in many cases enhances the appreciation of that function.

    I think this is the simplest way to state what the Rule Holists argue: “Rule 5 must come before all else, but so long as Rule #5 is observed, we may also indulge in the aesthetics of our sport.”

    Personally, it is through immersing myself in those finer details of being a Cycling Aesthete that the pleasure of not just riding a bike – but of being a cyclists and being part of the cycling culture – really, truly, take shape.

  26. @frank, taking his leadership position among the Velominati, causally and confidently asserting his aesthetic preferences: “never drink beer from a bottle. Pour it in a glass so you can taste it properly”.

    The Cognoscenti are students of Sullivan and Wright. The phrase, “form follows function”, means that form supervenes on function. You design entirely for function, and whatever form you get, you get. After that, there are two different ways to view the principle. 1. You get whatever form supervenes on function, and who cares if it’s pleasing to some or another person. What’s pleasing is contingent, transitory, and local. 2. You get whatever form supervenes on function, and if you did it right, you’ll have an aesthetically beautiful form. True beauty is manifest in truly rational function. The Cognoscenti can endorse both. In fact, the principles of the Cognoscenti might plausibly be condensed into just the phrase, “Form follows function.”

    If the Velominati stand for the principle that once Rule #5 is obeyed, a Velominatus may indulge himself in the aesthetics of the sport, the Cognoscenti stand ready to support the Rules and, with the Velominati, partake in the appreciation of the rich history, tradition, and culture of the sport. But be warned. We have been sent as a gadfly upon the Keepers to remind them that cannonizing their local and contingent sensibilities in the form of rules poses a danger to cycling. Over-indulgence will be met with the sharp sting of the rebuke: What the fuck does that have to do with winning a bicycle race?

  27. david :If the Velominati stand for the principle that once Rule #5 is obeyed, a Velominatus may indulge himself in the aesthetics of the sport, the Cognoscenti stand ready to support the Rules and, with the Velominati, partake in the appreciation of the rich history, tradition, and culture of the sport. But be warned. We have been sent as a gadfly upon the Keepers to remind them that cannonizing their local and contingent sensibilities in the form of rules poses a danger to cycling. Over-indulgence will be met with the sharp sting of the rebuke: What the fuck does that have to do with winning a bicycle race?

    Truer words…

  28. @david

    Over-indulgence will be met with the sharp sting of the rebuke: What the fuck does that have to do with winning a bicycle race?

    Then we have an accord. And, if our answer is not, “Winning a bicycle race with class and in style” then we will be remiss, and the individual will need to undergo a Joe session of savage drinking followed by 3 hours on the trainer with no fans.

  29. and, if our answer is not, “Winning a bicycle race with class and in style” then we will be remiss.

    An answer that may well lead us to waffle all over the place as we’ve sometimes been doing. And then you can gain the upper hand by invoking Rule #59. (One of my favorite rules.)

  30. But what if it’s not about winning the bicycle race? Yes, that applies to PROs and PROcycling and to those aiming to be PROs, but what about the rest of us?

    For example. The next road frame I buy will be titanium or steel. I will not buy a crabon or Alu frame. This is a case of form over function. Carbon may be the best material with which to make a frame to win a bike frame, but it has no soul and can rarely be considered beautiful.

    If the Cognoscenti want to take it too extremes, what does Rule #5 have to do with winning a bike race? Rule #5 suggests that you should be out training in all weathers in the bare minimum of clothing because it will make you hard. Rule #5 suggests you shuld go longer and harder, rather than have an easy ride or a rest day. Rule #5 suggests that you should attack from the gun, because it is hard. Adherence to Rule #5 will not win you bike races. So what the fuck does Rule #5 have to do with winning bike races?

  31. @Jarvis

    I don’t really see the contradiction: I think Rule #5 is a state of mind rather than a state of practice. If a dozen Cognoscenti lined up in the same race, only one could win. I don’t think that would diminish the standing of the other eleven so long as they all shed blood, sweat, and tears along the course. Back to the state of mind, though, a true adherent of Rule #5 is not going to sweat the bike performance, but instead steel the eyes, do a gun check, and be convinced that he is going to mash the hell out of even his daughter’s tricycle, but even that rig will see him up the Tourmalet.

    So maybe this is where I fall between your interpretation and david’s: it’s about the spirit of the ride (in or outside of competition), not just about the “W”.

  32. @Jarvis exclaims, “So what the fuck does Rule #5 have to do with winning bike races?” The meaning of The Rule and its supreme importance is explained in our secret manifesto.

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