On the roads of France the etiquette for recognizing other riders is either a cool ‘salut’, ‘bonjour’ or a little wave from the handlebars. So when someone gives you a big, toothy smile it’s a bit unnerving.
This has happened several times to me and I suppose my brain was too numbed by the pain to realize why. Then the other day it hit me. When I’m pushing hard my mouth tends to twist itself into a smile/grimace probably reminiscent of Heath Ledger’s Joker – red lips and all! I’m not happy, but I obviously look it.
So, cyclists of France, if you see me out there grinding my gears into the wind or up a mountain and I look like I’m enjoying myself, think twice before returning my evil grin. A sympathetic ‘allez’ might be nice though…
The Vicious Cycle 
Hey ….. just maybe they recognise how “OLD” you are and giving you the sympathy smile as a gesture…. for what I am not sure…. Happy “29Th Birthday…..again…
We have always giggled at motorcyclists “hello wave off the handle bars… and pondered how a passing van might wave to us in our van… food for thought LOL
That could be it, Gary, but I’m usually the young one on the roads around here (I ride when the great unwashed are working 😉
“… the great unwashed…”!! What a phrase! I had to google it. What a hoot!
First time I’ve used it…I’ve been waiting for ages!