Okay, I'll jump in.
We're all on a bike mailing list specializing in once specific brand and
type of bikes. Granted, they are more practical bikes than specialist
bikes, but we're all still bike nerds here. I have a carbon gravel/road
bike, a steel commuter and errand bike, and my Riv as my "zippy, do
whatever" bike.
Now, in general, most people who are bike nerds tend to specialize in
one or more specific types of riding; MTB, gravel, high performance
road, randonneuring, etc. With bike nerdery come riding nerdery, I
suppose. I can be extreme in both bike/component choice and riding
choice. And while this is extreme in performance, it's kind of the
mainstream for "people really into bikes."
Then, there are people who are kind of average, utilitarian riders.
They're generally not bike nerds. My wife has an ebike for commuting,
errands, and the occasional fun ride. It's like a Toyota Corolla... but
a bike. The brand and the specs don't really matter so long as it's
reliable and functional.
However, Riv bike owners/riders seems to appreciate both the
practicality and utilitarian nature of these bikes, AND the gear head,
bicycle craft, nice component nature of bikes. It's an uncommon
crossover, and it's something I find I have to describe to both by
extreme cycling friends AND my non-cycling friends who might just have
their "errand bike."
But it's fun! I love maintaining my Riv. I love the classic look of my
bike. I love being able to fix and maintain everything with a pretty
basic tool set. I love the fact that I can find really nice parts for
usually pretty cheap because they're not the latest modern standard. I
love the joy of riding my very nice bike in everyday situations.
For me, I kind of enjoy playing around with the Riv trends because they
usually work well. Here's how I've come to explain the Riv culture to
people who aren't familiar. Riv bikes tend to take the best parts of
practical bike design from the 70s, 80's and 90's and put them all
together on one classic looking bike.
Cheers!
Ben
P.S. L.A. folks, we should all try to do a meetup soon-ish!
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