I don't ride much any more. Pity really.

For me, it's much like straight razor shaving, a nice bike (My dream bike was a Rivendell allrounder... never got one unfortunately) Brooks leather saddle (I do have/use), a traditional style waxed canvas saddle bag attached to the Brooks saddle, real pedals with leather toe straps, friction levers operating the dérailleurs, no need for more than 10 to 12 speeds total, a nice flat handlebar (moustache handlebar was my favourite) and a bit of time to get where I was going. I'm afraid spandex was/is out... give me wool and cotton.

And yes, I too have been called a retro-grouch.


Regards

Christian