Competition = recreation / fun (for many).

I suggest there's a continuum and that aspects of one can inform and assist others.

Some people get personal satisfaction from going far and fast and possibly with more simplicity than usual.

If you dislike the record-attempt side of my discussion, then perhaps look instead to the ultralight touring side, which just looks to the perks of the UL concept to enhance the tour experience in that way, just like backpackers do (some go for personal records, most use UL just to go farther, faster, easier and they like that).

Obviously, I'm not only talking about racing here.

The racing forum doesn't seem to deal much with multi-day self-supported luggage situations. But I'll try over there in "ultracycling" and see if there's interest.

So far it doesn't seem like there's a similar/parallel level of interest in the UL concept here in this bike touring forum like there is elsewhere for backpacking. Again, it seems that UL can equally benefit/inform road touring as it does mtbike touring and backpacking...for any kind of goal.