How can you tell.....

[e.e.cummings]

In my mind, this is what clues me to a person who is either 'new' or may not be exactly new, but not that serious about riding:
-does not wear a helmet
-wears a helmet but does not fasten it
-cannot turn head to check behind without going off course
-cannot drink from water bottle without getting wobbly
-entire kit is spanking new - bike, clothes
-wears underwear under cycling shorts
-odd wearing of clothes - once saw a guy with a long cotton sleeveless shirt tucked into a pair of cycling shorts
-rides too fast for the situation (although these might not be new, just knobs who don't care about their safety or others)
-is not at ease with clipping in and out - really fears stopping
-someone who weaves around, is unpredictable in their riding
-takes being passed personally - hard to imagine that it is an experienced rider - or maybe just someone with a very large ego!
-someone whose bikes is overflowing with gadgets and gear, or has huge panniers for a day trip (granted, my husband is experienced, but he cannot seem to go for a day ride without packing the kitchen sink. All I need is my wallet, my keys, my cell phone, and my undersaddle kit. )
-training wheels (LOL)