The Dangers and TOXICITY of Cycling (for novice cyclists, black cyclists and minority cyclists)

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I want to be honest and talk about the dangers of cycling and the toxicity of cycling. Is Cycling is a beautiful sport? YES! But after riding my bike for a few years, I want to give new cyclists, black cyclists and minority cyclists AUTHENTIC advice on the world of cycling. So that you know exactly what to expect when you enter the world of cycling.
These are just SOME the dangers of cycling. If you have been cycling for awhile, what would you add to this list?
⏰ TIME STAMPS⏰
00:00 - The Dangers of cycling Intro
00:20 - Danger #1 about cycling
01:34 - Danger #2 about cycling
02:27 - Danger #3 about cycling
03:15 - THE MOST SERIOUS danger
04:08 - So, is it worth it?
---
A little about myself:
New to my channel? Well, I'm an average recreational cyclist that recently moved from America to Girona, Catalunya, Spain. The Tour De France 2023, The Vuelta España 2023 and The Tour of Catalunya will all be held here in Spain! Sometimes I race and when I do, I share my training with you along the way. So far, I've done crit racing, road racing and gravel racing. I haven't done a duathlon or a triathlon yet, but it is something I am thinking about!
So far in Spain, I’ve seen DSM cycling, SD Worx, Team Jayco Alula, Rally / Human Powered Health cycling, Ineos, Arkea cycling, UAE team emirates and more all training here. Did you know there’s also a GCN studio here?!
🛑 If you'd like to come along with me on my journey, then you can subscribe to the channel (it’s free). I also started a blog to document my journey in the written form: www.seesmith.net
📲 You can connect with my Instagram to see some cool cycling and non cycling content in Spain: @SeeSmith_
🙏🏾 Thank you for taking the time to watch!

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Опубликовано:

14 май 2024

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Комментарии : 66

@JVanSky 10 месяцев назад

The finance warning is a good one! The more I learn about cycling the more it could cost me. Look for used items and I would say do some research on the actual gains from those products. You can easily fall into the marketing of more aero and lighter and faster when they might only make a minor difference. One thing I would add and this isn't specific to cycling is comparison. Falling into the trap of comparison is a quick way to think you aren't good enough on your bike to even show up to a group ride. While Strava is a great way to share rides and accomplishments it can also be a pitfall when you see others riding 100+ miles a day or grabbing KOM all the time.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Man, this is GREAT advice. Also, I had totally forgot about the Strava comparison rabbit hole that I've been a victim of as well. Thank you for adding your insight!!

@atlantaslim1315 10 месяцев назад

Well said😁👍🏾

@purpleaki7135 5 месяцев назад

I live in England, West Yorkshire and as a road cyclist if I want to enjoy myself I go to Chiang Rai, Thailand. I even went on FB to see about joining my local club (Star Wheelers) and they didn't have the courtesy to respond.

@rand_kk 10 месяцев назад

The most toxic thing in cycling, to me, is the marketing side. There are plenty of sites and youtube channels that instead of being real and try to give a good advice taking into account that everyone has a different budget and overall goals. It is very hard to find reviews on stuff, and every other video about upgrades it is always about how better will it be if you buy this and that.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

You are 100% correct! I think if you are an elite racer (which I am not) the equipment gains could make a difference between winning or losing. But on the other hand, usually people racing on expensive bikes/expensive equipment are sponsored and didn't have to pay for it. But again, like you said, for average riders like us every one has different budget, goals (and responsibilities off of the bike).

@rand_kk 10 месяцев назад

@@SeeSmithTV Yeah, totally. And even tho the Strava has a rabbit hole (as you said down below), it is also a very useful and good at dealing with the problem that I described above. I follow two guys that cycling is just a hobby for them besides the work and life stuff, while still they delivery KOMs riding gravel bikes on normal roads with budget friendly setup. That helps me understand that at first I need to get better, and only then it is worth to care about minor upgrades (not so minor on wallet tho).

@PatrickLino 10 месяцев назад

@CycoWarriorx 10 месяцев назад

I’m in line… 🫡

@foodbymark 10 месяцев назад

Right on Calvin. I will say I’ve found my tribes in London, and clubs including Rapha here are very diverse and that’s why I have gravitated to them. No one cares if you’re riding an old bike as long as it works and you are safe to ride with! And I am a 42 year old overweight rider having only taken up this sport 2 years ago! Love your work man!

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

That is so awesome to hear, Mark! I am only 5 years into my journey and it sounds like it has impacted both of our lives for the better. By the way, the Indian food in London is INCREDIBLE. I got stuck in London once (thanks British Airways lol) and was able to try some.

@topline313kaat 10 месяцев назад

Nice video! You made some good points.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Thanks! Is there any thing you would add to the list? Cycling has enhanced my life tremendously. I want all newer cyclist to stick around so that it can continue to grow.

@topline313kaat 10 месяцев назад

@@SeeSmithTV I love the cycling world and this has changed me a lot as a person. More aware about my health and growing and getting better. But what i would add to the list is, the Strava Culture, people bragging about what they can do and all that comes whit that.

@LLewis-vu9qf 10 месяцев назад

Since you've searched for biking videos, you probably already found Luis Scott. I think he rides in Florida and his videos are mostly about group rides. He's very personable. I follow several biker vlogs but they all seem to be of riders in Great Britain. I'm white but even I've noticed the lack of ethnically diverse bike riders, at least on RU-vid. Don't give up. Other riders are out there. Keep the wheels rolling. 😊 👍

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Absolutely, Lewis. We have to keep the wheels rolling. This sport is too good to give up :) I actually haven't found Luis Scott before, so thank you for the recommendation as well. Have a great weekend!

@psymanj73 10 месяцев назад

Enjoyed the thought provoking video! Any ideas on how to attract more diversity to cycling? Or is it less about attracting and more about not putting off? E.g. more videos, advertising and role models from diverse backgrounds?

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

I am glad you enjoyed the video Simon! Thank you for taking time from your day to watch. That is a great question. For starters, I think advertising, grass root programs and positive role models would help. I mentioned the first point not to deter, but so that newer Black and minority cyclist do not get discouraged. Because this is a great sport and there are some great people in it. On another point, I think better infrastructure to support road cycling is needed as well (at least in the states). Cycling does have an element of danger involved. I think there are a lot of people in general who are scared to try it because of this.

@psymanj73 10 месяцев назад

You’re spot on. The infrastructure issue is a massive one. One of the reasons most of my cycling is done indoors on Zwift. Every ride I do outside I have at least 3 near misses. Unfortunately, I can’t see any British government sorting it any time soon 😞

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

@@psymanj73 In my opinion, Zwift miles count all the same. You are on the bike exercising. Our focus should be enhancing our health. Happy riding, my friend. Please stay safe and alert when you do ride outdoors and I'll do the same.

@jpulley 10 месяцев назад

When I was searching videos about training and I came across your channel I subbed before the video could even get done with ad. Like you said you don't see too many people who look like us in the cycling world. I'm glad to see you are making videos and being part of the representation. Now my son might find one of your videos and know there are people like us out here doing this.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

That means a lot, thank you! This is a great sport and I really want more of us to enjoy it. Health is wealth.

@jpulley 10 месяцев назад

@@SeeSmithTV I did my first gravel race last weekend in Boonville MO. I didn't see anyone else who looked like me. That was to be expected. I still met some cool people, and it was a very good experience overall.

@jamesturner9858 5 месяцев назад

Great video! Being an African American in NY. And been cycling for years . Primarily a mountain biker. But also a road cyclist as well. I noticed some of these things more on the road cycling side. You definitely have to find your tribe or group with road cyclists, they seem to be more judgmental.. if you’re not riding a S-Works or a higher end bike they judge. If you’re not as fast they Judge. Your weight is judged. Mountain bikers have always seemed more welcoming. I been riding my road bike and have seen where other guys don’t even acknowledge one another. Or offer to help other road cyclists stuck on side of road. I don’t know what it is with roadies but they get a bad wrap. Ijs

@SeeSmithTV 5 месяцев назад

Yea, I’ve noticed that in the road scene and I don’t quite understand it. I feel like we should be looking out for each other. I try to do my part and be welcoming to others in this space. But especially with newer cyclists. I haven’t tried MTB, yet. So I’ll take your word for it. Too afraid of the single track 😂😂

@TheJaxsonjack 2 месяца назад

Well you don't say? What you've described is what *everyone* who has ridden for a while, has witnessed ... either road or mountain disciplines. Trust me, what you look like has nothing to do with it.

@nomad61u2 10 месяцев назад

Really to the point and agreed on all of it. I’ve been cycling for a long time and have seen the demographics change over time to being a little more inclusive, but still definitely not where it could (and should be). The weight thing is a trip. I know exactly what you mean, and it is the only place in my life where grown men talk about their weight and wanting to shed pounds. It is kind of messed up since none of us are currently racing. The toxic part that strikes me the most maybe part of what you were calling people judging you. Road biking especially can be very closed off, and if you don’t show up to group rides consistently, it is likely you’ll get ignored for quite a while (unless you are really fast, then everyone wants to talk to you!). It shouldn’t take that long for a group to include you. Thanks for adding your voice to the community!

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

I agree and you are spot on with your "unless you are really fast, then everyone wants to talk to you" point. The sport has a lot of positives, but I definitely want to make sure some of the toxicity doesn't scare off new cyclist. Thanks for taking the time to watch and for sharing your insight!

@CycoWarriorx 10 месяцев назад

Lemme tell you my first few *invited* group rides, I was ready to bail on this sport… until someone like me invited me to ride with his group… much more welcoming vibe… developed new friendships and enjoyed riding a lot more…

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Man, that is what it's all about right there! The bike is great for bringing people together and forming new friendships.

@CycoWarriorx 10 месяцев назад

@@SeeSmithTV That part, 100%

@iancarson8614 10 месяцев назад

i see more things in cycling which bind us together, than create division or toxicity. rarely if ever do i see toxicity based on weight or kit or skin colour. i see encouragement and sense of community. in N. ireland, cyclists see each other working hard, improving or struggling, regardless of $$ value. however the group mentality makes us want to conform with kit, bikes etc, and be around our like minds, and its nice to have nice things. that is natural. marketing can be toxic, social media provides toxicity. people on bikes in my world are together, not toxic.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Yes, Ian. I agree. Without the bike, you and I would not be talking to each other from different parts of the world (how cool is that?). Cycling as a whole is not toxic or divisive. But as with anything in life, there are some things that can use improvement. I would like newer cyclist to be prepared for these, so they are not taken aback and stick around - I want the sport to grow. Especially the weight issue, because I have a few friends that have battled eating disorders that were caused by this sport. I've never been to Ireland or rode my bike there (though it looks beautiful), so I can't speak to the cycling culture there. But it sounds like you've got a good thing going. Keep it up! I thank you for taking the time to watch and also for sharing your point of view. It is much appreciated.

@PlayingInVestapol 2 месяца назад

All this is so true. When out riding Rail Trail i meet Carcasions, Mexicans, Chinese, Japanese and South Koreans. I've only come across seven serious Black bikers

@rmb_dev 10 месяцев назад

It's about culture. Same thing about backpacking; you don't see many black or Indians roaming in the mountains, but mostly white and Asian ppl. You can't blame brands (like PNS, MAAP, Catelli, Assos) that put very fit, white riders on their socials coz the culture is like that, but it's all about you to start riding and don't care about the rest. Same with basketball, it does not prevent white or Asians from playing the ball where the majority is black (in the US); they just like the game and play it.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Thanks for sharing your point of view. I appreciate it!

@raiphtheimposter 10 месяцев назад

come to the UK much friendlier crowd here and welcoming. have to say lycra doesn't look good on everyone haha. mountain bikers I found are much more chilled. I did road but too many angry motorists lately with new laws in favour of cyclists. I'm more into XC mountain biking now, and can keep the lycra on! just get out and ride whatever your level or equipment.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Riding in the UK is definitely on my list! In the states, we for sure have our share of angry motorist as well. I couldn't agree more with your last point..get out and ride.

@omars8390 10 месяцев назад

@@SeeSmithTV He's confusing the two... ROAD bike is hell snotty in UK , as someone of BME don't even get an acknowledgement from others they just look at what bike I'm on LOL Mountain biking is a different world tho.

@MartonMerritt 10 месяцев назад

Great video, Calvin. All valid points worth discussing more in the cycling community.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

@escostar6331 10 месяцев назад

As an ex-soccer player back in the days which was my main sport, I always wear my stretchy technical pants over my bib shorts.... I just cannot fathom to be seen in Bib Shorts like everyone else out there and Cycle Solo anyway when outside. When it's inside no problem... Does that make ME the one who is a snob? Or not...

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Haha! I was the same way (except I come from a basketball background)! So, I completely understand you. It took me a few months to get used to literally riding around in spandex. Personally, I think as long as you are on the bike exercising, that's all that matters. Keep the main thing the main thing :)

@marcelsow5817 10 месяцев назад

I think it"s only a bit funny when you get off the bike and walk into a store or gas station to grab a drink/snack. Especially in areas where cyclists are far and few inbetween, the people in the store may have a funny look on their faces.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

@@marcelsow5817 Haha exactly. That's happened in the smaller towns out here for sure.

@jamessotoism 10 месяцев назад

Hey Calvin. How are you doing? Seriously, how ya feeling? Asking because a lot of us followers actually care about the answer. At lot of us here are rollin’ with ya in spirit. How fortunate is it to be young, fit and in Gerona? #action dictates mood. Keep up keeping it real.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Hi James, thanks for the kind words and positive vibes, my friend. It has been a roller coaster in Girona, but overall it's been great. Every day that I wake up, I am grateful for the opportunity to be here. It is not lost on me how fortunate I am to take part in this experience. Is there anything you'd like to see out here? I am planning to get some more rides on footage to share with you all. But I am always open to suggestions. Ideally, I want this channel/community to be interactive. Lastly, thanks for taking the time to watch and to comment.

@jamessotoism 10 месяцев назад

@@SeeSmithTV - Glad to hear the overall experience has been great. Gratitude as a great way to start each day. As far as suggestions, it would be cool to break down the cycling scene (eg shops, clubs, events). I’m 53 years old and have it on my bucket list to ride and live a few weeks or months out there. I tell my kids that when they move to a place and are alone, do the things you love and you’ll find your tribe.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

You've given your kids great advice. I think you are spot on! Thanks for those suggestions as well, I'm on it. Lastly, I hope you are able to check that goal off the bucket list. I think you would have a great time riding and living here. The roads are really nice.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

What is one thing you would add to this list that you feel a newer cyclist should be aware of?

@genxcyclist3734 9 месяцев назад

Equipment shaming !

@SeeSmithTV 9 месяцев назад

@@genxcyclist3734 That is definitely a thing! My take is, as long as someone is out riding a bike, it's a win.

@bikermansl3 10 месяцев назад

I felt due to this; it’s hella toxic and the culture here in Utah is very exclusive. I agree with your race issue however there are a lot of problems with cycling to be honest. More than happy to help: I own Sommet apparel and for sure down to help you get you in a kit. Cheers Preston

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Definitely..there are problems, but I do love it. We all have to work together collectively to make the sport more attractive and inviting. I bet the riding in Utah is beautiful!

@SkinnyButJiggy 10 месяцев назад

Just started my cycling journey about a month ago. I identify as black, but am mixed. I noticed a lot of these similar things when I started skiing a couple years back as well. I've see one other colored cyclist at group rides, races, etc. If I wasn't as athletic and didn't pull a lot of them along the routes in not sure they would be as friendly as they are 😅 I've found though that giving respect usually earns it, and I've made sure to admit my ignorance before trying to have a conversation that I don't belong in, as cycling can be very elitist. Thank you for pointing these out to people, have a great day fam!

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

No problem and thanks for sharing your experience so far. I think leading with respect in anything is the right route to go. Glad to hear your enjoying cycling. I still need to give skiing a shot. Easy slopes only! LOL

@syrus3k 10 месяцев назад

New riders: Watch out for unclipping at the beginning. If you forget you're clipped in you will have a hilarious fall. Been there, done that.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Haha, I forgot that one... that has happened to me too. I've fallen in front of people at stop lights and onto someones car as well LOL

@supercatthree 10 месяцев назад

its not toxic just because it makes you a little uncomfortable. its called getting out of your comfort zone. Trying new things, meeting new ppl, doesn't always workout, its normal.

@SeeSmithTV 10 месяцев назад

Thanks for sharing your point of view!