fluffhead, I think you have valid points. For a bike that would stay at a beach house, I'd go with a cheap Wal-mart cruiser. They aren't dumb looking either. If you are going to the grocery store, imagine a basket on that track frame. Like towing a trailer or boat with a Ferrari ? For a touring bike, I'd consider a bike carrier and bringing that choice to and from. But sometimes it all depends upon convenience and effort too. If being a discovering tourist is what the vacation all day ride is about, many would be surprised how fast even a 35-40 lb beach cruiser will go. Because a track bike is slower than a road bike for a 50+ mile ride just the same.