a clean drive train …
tire logo centered on valve …
quick release levers aligned with forks and stays …
I pay a lot of attention to other bikes on the road.
Serious road cyclists are particular about their bikes. Some might say obsessed. I didn’t used to think this way but I’m not ashamed to call myself a cyclist. I take care of my bikes. I enjoy riding a clean, lubricated, and finely tuned machine.
It seems, I’m not the only one. Serious cyclists care for their bikes with a passion. There are 3 things that differentiate them; 3 things that I notice immediately when I’m on the road; and, 3 telltale signs.
- A clean and well lubricated drive train.
- Tire logos centred over the tire’s valve stem.
- Quick release levers aligned with forks and seat stays.
Are you a serious road cyclist?
I may say this tongue-in-cheek but when my bikes are finely tuned, I cycle better.
PedalWORKS 
Pingback: reblog: a well dressed bike | Kite*Surf*Bike*Rambling
Thanks for the reblog!
Just don’t go anywhere near mine. Too busy cycling to clean bikes.
LOL. I’m surprised. You cycle a lot and thought you would appreciate a clean finely tuned ride.
I’m probably not that bad, but not totally conscientious. Old(ish) bike, old(ish) rider so a bit lazy.
I notice the tyre logo to valve alignment right away!
Do you do the same?
I absolutely HAVE to have my tyre logos aligned with the valve stems. I wouldn’t be seen on a bike that doesn’t.
Glad to hear that. I’m the same way.
Clean handlebar tape please, or at least not ripped to shreds