The helmet's a dead give away. I always get asked if I cycle when I wear one into a shop. Sometimes I really don't like giving an in to strangers, so I'll take off the helmet, but even then, I often get strange looks because of the cycling clothes. The monster in me thinks I should stick my tongue out at these people for staring.

It is different when the other person is a cyclist. Then there's often an instant bond. But when it's just some kook who thinks he can talk to you because you are obviously a kook too, (as confirmed by the helmet and weird attire ) then, it's kind of annoying.