I've seen it online a few times, "Don't be a Fred".

Is that like a ricer for the bicyclist world?

Well, there are two running definitions. One is the poser with the pro kit and the Orbea who rides on the trail every saturday at 15 mph. The other is the bearded touring cyclist in tube socks whom you only see from behind because he’s faster than you.

“Don’t be a Fred” applies to both of them, though in the context of the racing kit its more towards the latter.


Basically people with either too much money or not enough style. (CBR reminds readers that 1. There’s nothing wrong with tube socks. 2. Most of us started out as Freds, so be kind.)

“Don’t be a Fred.” is like saying “Dress like a racer” in a “Snap-into-a-Slim-Jim!” tone of voice.

Pro kit? What, like the shorts and shirt with logos all over it? Or just an expensive bike? Not like I really care, I'm just curious. Got to be up to date on the lingo.

I miss the Randy Savage, Snap into a Slim Jim commercials.

So they want you to dress even dorkier than you already are?

I'm a Fred