Originally Posted by I-Like-To-Bike

My take is that the Europeans in question are the significant percentage of cyclists there who prefer practical and reliable bicycles to get to a destination. These cyclists do not share the stereotyped North American cyclists 's obsession with maximizing speed and theoretical efficiency, or at least looking and acting the part.

In places where bicycle commuting is considered an activity practiced by normal people of all sizes, shapes and ages, cyclists are aware that a slower/relaxed cycling pace can often save time for commuting at the typical distances. Changing outfits, cool down periods and extra showers necessary in the name of maximizing speed and efficiency and cycling with stripped down lightweight racer-boy cycles does not always add up to maximum efficiency in use of time. Nor does the "pain IS gain" philosophy of cyclist training considered a serious way to commute or get about town.

Carrying an expensive high tech lightweight bicycle around like a ball and chain at every location because of security concerns doesn't appeal to European commuter/ recreational cyclists in the same way that it does to the sterotyped North American enthusiast. Locking up a heavyweight outside seems much more efficient and speedy, IMO.

European cyclists in general may have a very different perspective on cycling "efficiency" than found at many North American cycling clubs or Internet discussion group.