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@stompy
I'm not a city boy, but I am a 'suit'.
I lurked on here for a while, went into BLB, tried some bikes, and walked out with my Fuji.
I'd put in some half-hearted bids on eBay, but since I hadn't ridden fixed I didn't want to commit myself. Once I tried the bikes I knew that the Fuji was right for me. I had the money so I bought it. Also, the staff in BLB were perfectly pleasant to me even though it was gone 7, and they were busy.
That's the way I did it. I don't look down on anybody who builds up their bikes over time; saving to get what they want and enjoying what they do. I've no doubt that they have a greater satisfaction riding their own hand built and customised bike - and good for them. Actually, I changed the rear sprocket and I'm giving away the the one that it came with to somebody on the forum.
When I went on the first Bridges Ride I was a little nervous about turning up with my shiny, 1 week old, stock bike. I was half expecting to be sneered at as a 'wannabee'. But it didn't happen. Everyone I spoke to was really welcoming, which is why I like riding with you guys.
True; I didn't turn up to pose as a hipster. I turned up to ride. I enjoy riding. I love riding my fixed. I love riding it so much that I've only ridden my hybrid once since I got my Fuji. Sure, people are going to buy a particular type of bike because it's cool. But some of those people may find that they like riding it - and they'll keep riding it once the coolth has gone. Surely that can only be a good thing?
So, yeah. I'm a suit. I ride a shop bought bike. I wear Rapha. I can't trackstand. I don't skid. But I love riding my fixed wheel bike, and I like riding with other people who love riding whatever type of bike they ride. Look down on me if you like; but I'm still gonna ride.