I agree. However, another consideration is that for weight loss to be sustained, lasting lifestyle changes have to be made. Riding 50 miles a week at a semi-leisurely pace over time will still result in weight loss (albeit slowly) if combined with a sensible diet. 50 miles a week is roughly 1500 to 2000 calories. Over a year that equates to almost 30 lbs worth of calories. Better to do that and sustain it than go all gung ho, ride 500 miles a month for a couple of months and get burned out and give it up. You're right in that riding 50 miles a week is no excuse to pig out and eat whatever you want.