Re: The "German crowd" (so called).
Having worked in Germany I can honestly say the Germans are a top bunch of people. Having travelled extensively, I can also say there are ratbags around the world.
Some of the nicest people I have met have been rusted-on cyclists. On my bi-annual trips to England, I encounter the most wonderful people with immense generosity of spirit. There is always someone willing to loan a precious machine and there is always help with parts. While I haven't been to Germany for some time, I am sure the same applies there.
One rotten grape shouldn't be allowed to spoil the vine. Prune it off for the benefit of the bunch..........
David Fryer downunder in sunny Queensland (without a whiff of Teutonic).