Avatar: The benefits of being recognized in real life

[Trevize1138]

Since changing my avatar to the picture of my snarling face with the unmistakable shootin' glasses I've had more people than ever ask "Are you Chris?" out at the trails.

At first I felt self-conscious about it as if I somehow used the avatar to boost my already over-inflated ego. Whether that's true or not, the effect has been that I've put a lot more faces to the names here. Somehow it just makes the already friendly MTB community seem even friendlier.

What I'm contrasting it to was my first couple years in the twin cities when I didn't know anybody (mid '90s). I'd park at the Leb lot, unload the bike, get ready to ride and just sorta nod at the other riders. Those that knew each other already would talk to each other but rarely interact with new people.

One complaint about the Twin Cities is that people here can come off as cold and distant. I know it's because of that whole Scandinavian attitude: everyone's so busy being "polite" by not bothering anyone else that nobody ever talks to new people! I didn't think anything of it when I moved here 'cause I'd gotten used to that in ND.

Perhaps the MORC forums, despite the occasional flame war, is really serving as a much-needed ice breaker? If more people used avatars of what they look like with their helmets and shades would people new to the sport or new to the area feel more welcomed? :)

[gopherhockey]

Perhaps the MORC forums, despite the occasional flame war, is really serving as a much-needed ice breaker? If more people used avatars of what they look like with their helmets and shades would people new to the sport or new to the area feel more welcomed? :)

I have always felt that the forums were an ice breaker of sorts. I've met so many people as a result of the forums. (I'd say 95% due to the forums at least)

Many have questioned our request for real full names. Its just another part of the whole community thing. We're not a "hide behind your forumid" type of forums... they have their place, just not here.

I think your point on an avatar is a good one. There is also the profile picture that maybe is even better, its just not used very often and not as "in your face" as the avatar is. (as I say this I realize my photo really wouldn't help anyone recognize me.. I'll have to update that)

Click User-CP and then Update Profile Picture

I'd enjoy seeing everyone use the profile picture system more... and get out here and meet each other! Go on group rides, come out for trailwork, or just say "hi" to your fellow rider out on the trail.

For once I totally agree with Chris. (I know that day would come...)

[stoneage]

A lot of us have been discussing your decision to show your countenance. For your benefit, I won't say any more.

[soupboy]

Talk to the hands beeyotch! :fool:

Perhaps the MORC forums, despite the occasional flame war, is really serving as a much-needed ice breaker? If more people used avatars of what they look like with their helmets and shades would people new to the sport or new to the area feel more welcomed? :)

[gopherhockey]

Talk to the hands beeyotch! :fool:

hehe... I can see it now... "Hey, dude, I recognize those hands! Are you by chance soupboy from the forums? Lets ride!" ;)

[SPR]

I'm still waiting to meet that goofy chipmunk on ice skates with the M on his sweater...:D ;)

[gopherhockey]

I'm still waiting to meet that goofy chipmunk on ice skates with the M on his sweater...:D ;)

Halloween is just around the corner! ;) We were just talking about it last night actually.

I was thinking about wearing what Tiffany wore last year, but maybe I'll see if I can get a Goldie uniform for the day.... hehe

[ryno lite]

Halloween is just around the corner! ;) We were just talking about it last night actually.

I was thinking about wearing what Tiffany wore last year, but maybe I'll see if I can get a Goldie uniform for the day.... hehe

I may have to skip Halloween this year if that is the case!

[berrywise]

It was a bit embarrassing the other night when I thought I saw you downtown Minneapolis but turned out not to be you. I did get an autograph though.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y248/snap1234/main03.jpg?t=1183472768

[Paul Swenson]

John did I see you at the VT Memorial service?



http://media.startribune.com/smedia/2007/04/19/13/515-1hokie.standalone.prod_affiliate.2.jpg

(Is it too soon to make jokes?)

[gopherhockey]

John did I see you at the VT Memorial service?

I wasn't.. but if you look close you will see that the gnome was actually there...

http://www.morcmtb.org/photopost/data/500/515-1hokie3.jpg

Here he is hitching a ride with me on the train from Paris to Amsderdam as well... he's everywhere!

http://www.morcmtb.org/photopost/data/500/Pict0019a.jpg

[Shorty]

...but if you look close you will see that the gnome was actually there...


That's an elf. :crazy:

[TrailPatrol]

Funny...people always seem to know who I am, picture or not. "Are you Hans?" What am I; the only fat 50-something-year-old who wears red (formerly yellow) jerseys with big crosses on them??? :confused:

Oh wait....I guess I am. :eyeroll:

Ride safe,
:banana:
Hans

[Paul Swenson]

Funny...people always seem to know who I am, picture or not. "Are you Hans?" What am I; the only fat 50-something-year-old who wears red (formerly yellow) jerseys with big crosses on them??? :confused:

Oh wait....I guess I am. :eyeroll:

Ride safe,
:banana:
Hans

I'm pretty sure I saw you at the TC marathon last year.

[Ish]

That's an elf. :crazy:

careful - don't diss the gnome. Bad things happen to those that show disrespect towards him.:fool:

[Shorty]

careful - don't diss the gnome. Bad things happen to those that show disrespect towards him.:fool:

I'm not worried... and you shouldn't be either, elves generally have a good sense of humor so he won't mind you calling him a gnome. ;)