Why do cyclists shave their legs?

Q. Why do cyclists shave their legs?

A.  There are several reasons why cyclists shave their legs, here are some of the most common:

Aerodynamic benefit: In an age of wind tunnel testing, skinsuits and aerodynamic rims every little helps when it comes to dialling out air resistance, studies have shown that slippery freshly shaven legs are faster than the natural hairy alternative.

It makes massage more comfortable: When taking advantage of the muscular relief a masseuse has to offer it pays to have less hair - less hair means less oil and potentially less pain.

It's easier to treat road rash: Removing plasters and bandages from crash damaged legs is never going to be a pleasant experience, but one thing that can significantly improve this is having less hairs to pull out along the way.

Tradition / Because everyone else does: For over a century cyclists have been shaving their legs and as a result shaving your legs is seen by many as a sign of dedication and commitment to the sport, it's a way of ensuring a rider is perceived as a "serious cyclist". It's the fashion, the tradition. How many hairy legs do you see poking out of lycra nowadays?

Can you offer any other reasons as to why cyclists shave their legs? Just leave your comments in the box below.

Hat Tip To: BikeRadar.com Road Fitness