My older brother has been a serious racing cylist all his adult life. Around 1968 he spent a couple of years as a semi-professional based in Spain. He rode a tour of Spain as a domestique. I grew up amid his obsession and the numerous cyclists who turned up at home.
Some of it rubbed off but I have only ever played at cycling, mainly to keep the heart pumping and taking fairly regular trips to the shops via the scenic route.
My current steed is an electric assist Ribble. Gives just enough help to keep me going at an age where I might be frustrated enough to give it up!
It's a great bike.