Yes, this is very true of course. But there is still a "utilitarian" quality to this perspective that makes me want to assert that some things are just worth doing because they are of value for what they are: perhaps "enjoyment" is a better word than pleasure for it. This might better convey that the personal benefits of some things extend beyond "fun" or even practical fitness. There is obviously a quality of earnestness (or even devotion) to many cyclists who come to this forum. Some have applied the term Serious Leisure to this phenomenon.

As to the OP's topic of reflection, I do find that, somehow, fall tends to bring on a spell of introspection as the days grow shorter. This can take a variety of directions.