Guys, I just have to reject the notion that innovations that suit competitive cyclists represent improvements, or even incremental steps on the way to the peak in cycling evolution.

Bicycles are not currently evolving towards that peak. The closest we have come, so far, was the Moulton 4-speed of 1963: full suspension, internally geared hub, small wheels, ample luggage capacity, etc: (that's not mine, just one off the web). It is far from perfect; it can be improved by giving it a wider range hub, aluminum rims, functional brakes, dynamo LED lighting, etc. The geometry can be tweaked as well, perhaps with slightly larger wheels for better stability; and so on.

Bicycle evolution can never reach its peak until derailleurs are a thing of the past.