i think any of those beijing riders could mount a couple of bigwheels or tricycles strapped together with duct tape and hand most people their collective asses.
so yeah, the bike doesn't matter.
for us mere mortals, something unique under the saddle is a way to have fun--whatever one's price point may be.
i would bet u.s. buyers are hit in the family jewels with cyfac more than usual because they build/price/spec to euros. or maybe not? who knows.