Cycling to annual corporate social event: would you?

[TigerMom]

I think that the helmet will be a give-away that you cycled there no matter what. Since Vancouver is a bike oriented city, you might be able to generate bike conversations with people you don't know during that party. If people tend to go to this type of function in suits/business attire, then I would NOT bike there. But if people go to this type of function in shorts/T-shirts, I think that biking there will probably be a fun conversation topic starter.

But, this is just my 2 cents from me, a non-politically correct woman.
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2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[WindingRoad]

I don't see why not.

I'm in a similar predicament right now. We have an upcoming seminar and some people will be in work clothes (business attire) and other will not. I was thinking of just slipping on my capris before I go in and wear one of my nicer collared shirts that is also a performance material? I always have a bag or something so I can take some baby wipes and clean up beforehand too. I have to get clear across town, it will be about 15 miles I would guess.

[shootingstar]

I only have about 7 km. ride or so. So really distance wise, I don't have a super good excuse except if I want to look nicer/more polished than being on near casual cycling friendly wear.

So you gonna do it, aren't you, Winding?

TigerMom: am in Alberta right now...place where right now there are 3 oil spills across the province. And the provincial govn't has just blocked Greenpeace from placing a billboard sign about their cause.

[lph]

I would. But if I felt it would be inappropriate or too "flashy" to be seen wearing or carrying bike gear, I would lock my helmet to my bike at the parking lot and change shoes before leaving the bike, plus put on a scarf or jacket or something more neutral. I've ridden my bike to a funeral and did just that.

My take on it is that it's nobody's business how you choose to arrive at an event, but it's not appropriate in all settings to wander around in sporty or attention-grabbing gear.

[Sky King]

I would. But if I felt it would be inappropriate or too "flashy" to be seen wearing or carrying bike gear, I would lock my helmet to my bike at the parking lot and change shoes before leaving the bike, plus put on a scarf or jacket or something more neutral. I've ridden my bike to a funeral and did just that.

My take on it is that it's nobody's business how you choose to arrive at an event, but it's not appropriate in all settings to wander around in sporty or attention-grabbing gear.

Agree and frankly very few people will care how you get to and from the event unless you make a big deal about it. Wear clothing that is comfortable to ride in, it isn't a race so ride a nice pace that won't get you there dripping in sweat, lock you helmet to your bike, change out your shoes if you have to wear special shoes to ride your bike. I ride to all sorts of events, meetings, parties and the majority of the attendees don't know and frankly could give a hoot about how I choose to transport myself.

[PamNY]

Can you wear tights to cycle, and put casual slacks and jacket in a pannier or backpack? Since backpacks are very common, this would not look unusual, and might hold your helmet as well.

Since I used a Xootr every day, over time I have developed a wardrobe that is scooter-suitable (granted, somewhat easier than a bike). I simply do not own light-colored slacks or shoes that don't allow scootering.

The key in situations like this is being very confident, cheerful and low-key about your mode of transport. I agree with others who have said nobody will likely care about your mode of transport unless you make a fuss of it.

[Antaresia]

In Vancouver that wouldn't be a big deal at all. I'd just change the topic quick if anyone started talking about it, it's so hard to keep a straight face when co-workers start talking about how they "can't believe people bike like they they have the same rights as cars" ect.

And why not leave your helmet with your bike? I usually do. Helmets have no resale value, there's no reason to steal them.

[shootingstar]

I have never locked up my helmet to my bike. Yes, I like my helmets. I take awhile each time I have to replace a helmet, to find the helmet that I like at the right price and style/colours. I mean months.

[nuliajuk]

I only have about 7 km. ride or so...

If you ride at a gentle pace, you should be able to get away with non-cycling clothes for that distance. A top that wicks and dries easily, perhaps chinos on the bottom?
Why wouldn't you want people to know you biked in? I lived in Calgary for the first 51 years of my life and biked to work most of them. At the Calgary branch of the engineering firm that I work for, lots of people biked to work. I'd join in with long lines going down 4th street on the way home.

[shootingstar]

Some people already see that I bike in everyday when I wear my cycling gear arriving and leaving the office.

I'm not totally thrilled to have a whole convoy of car drivers see me bike ..on a route that I haven't tried 1 piece.

It's not them knowing I bike. I don't care. I just don't like looking lost on a section of a road I am not familiar with.

But then it may happen: it may thundershower later today and I might be forced on a different route (the route piece that I don't llike) if the river levels rise.