The Rapha Festive 500

I get that its a joke, but I don't think its fair to say its one big old willy waving competition.

At least it isn't for me or for my friends.

I did it for myself last year, had some of the best riding I have done, with good company and I enjoy the challenge.

:)

The amount of unadulterated projection in that is admirable.

I wouldn't normally wade in but the link has got details wrong, so figure I should. This isn't directed at you @MTB-Idle more a general comment around the F500 and contrarian PR pranks every year.

It seems any bike event involving many people ends up being divisive, and machismo becomes dominant. There's a critical mass and it implodes. This year seems to be even moreso, with the invitation to log indoor trainer miles.

The negativity becomes exponential, drives people apart. It's time and energy that could be spent more positively for the everyone and the bike community.

I tried to sum up the original spirit in the twitter post (below) when I saw some lively debate. I thought back to the original themes of appreciation of what Pro athletes have to do (had to do!) to entertain us all year round, my ambition to design/develop better winter kit for all, and to think more creatively/appreciatively about riding. It sank without trace in the chatter, but I'm glad I wrote it out;

https://twitter.com/graeme_raeburn/status/1330125482570997780

The second to last post is the important bit. That people have had great experiences (or lousy ones!) on the bike, and share in a more tangible, inspiring way than Strava. That's when the magic happens. Those people submitting beautiful photos, stories of recovery from illness, group rides that otherwise wouldn't happen, making creative animations, emerging new annual traditions, will inspire far more people to ride and enjoy bikes, than a distance or a Strava stat.

Was too busy last year, but looking forward to giving it a go this year, weather pending. Enjoy if you are riding, enjoy if you're not!