The Groucho Marx Test

I am not a joiner. Don't ask why, because I don't know. But most group activities have me scrambling for the exit (which probably explains my raging internet addiction). Even cycling -- which can often be a pretty social endeavor -- is usually my excuse to act out my loner leanings. Plus, when you ride alone, you don't get dropped.

With all that said, however, I have discovered ONE bike club that I have no problem joining -- the Tarik Saleh Bike Club, founded by co-blogster (and partial inspiration for this blogular endeavor) Tarik of Moscaline. The welcome packet tells you just about everything you need to know about TSBC:

Drat, hope that extra button wasn't a co-blogger bro deal not available to all. 

If you decide to join based on this post, please don't bug Tarik for more buttons. 

The dude has a family to feed. 

Two simple rules: Ride bikes, and try not to be an ass. Note that it isn't "don't be an ass." Benevolent Clubmeister Tarik recognizes human failings and only entreats joiners to TRY not to be an ass. I can manage that.

I splurged for the extra-fancy silver button because I'm a human magpie. Plus, it looks extra-stylin' on my woolen bike chapeau:

My "middle-management flunky on the Death Star" look is now complete -- appropriate, as the Darth Vader performance review ("He is as clumsy as he is stupid!") often applies.

So there you have it: I found a club that would have me as a member, but I joined it anyway. Gracias, Tarik. I shall fly your flag of attempted non-ass bike riding proudly in the middle of Iowa and beyond. 

THIS JUST IN: Apparently, Tarik has also accepted fivetoedsloth's membership application too. I leave it to you, discerning reader, to decide if that makes you want to join up or back away slowly.