My husband and I have commented to each other about some cyclists attire at big charity events. The first year, we knew nothing and were too focused on getting through the miles to even notice. The second year, we had more experience, and were apt to look around more. Boy...did we see variety!

Basically, if we saw a guy with short shorts or a tight sleeveless jersey/tank, we figured they were tri-guys and didn't really give them a second thought. Now, if it were cold, rainy and the guy was dressed like that, we'd wonder. We'd also notice if he happend to be dressed like that while riding a Rivendell or a touring bike with racks...that would seem odd. But dressed as a normal cyclist on a road bike but with shorter shorts? Nah...wouldn't give it much thought. I'd figure that his buddies would be razzing him enough anyway.