Boris Johnson, Tadej Pogačar and Taylor Swift are the same person, apparently… the problem with calling all cyclists ‘Cyclists’

The idea that Boris Johnson, Tadej Pogačar, and Taylor Swift are the same person might sound like a joke, but it reflects a deeper issue with lumping all cyclists into a single category. The term “cyclist” is often used broadly, but it fails to account for the vast differences among those who ride bikes—whether for sport, transportation, or leisure.

Tadej Pogačar is a world-class professional cyclist, a Tour de France champion whose life revolves around intense training, competition, and performance at the highest level of the sport. For him, cycling is an elite pursuit, requiring physical and mental dedication, advanced equipment, and a team of specialists supporting his efforts.

On the other hand, Boris Johnson, the former UK Prime Minister, is known for riding his bike primarily for commuting or as part of his political image promoting environmentally friendly transportation. His relationship with cycling is functional, far removed from Pogačar’s competitive realm.

Adding Taylor Swift to the mix, a pop star with no public connection to cycling, further illustrates the absurdity of treating all people who ride bikes as if they are the same. While Swift might ride a bike on occasion, calling her a “cyclist” in the same breath as Pogačar highlights how misleading the label can be.

This oversimplification can have consequences, especially when it comes to policy discussions. The needs of a professional cyclist differ greatly from those of a casual rider or a commuter. Recognizing the diversity within the cycling community is essential to ensure that policies, infrastructure, and discussions about cycling reflect the wide range of experiences people have with the activity.