There was a time in my life when I wondered the same thing. It may not be for every body, just as some of dedicated roadies can't understand the MTB thing. Me, I love everything cycling has to offer from off road trails, to the 100 mile 6 hr road rides and everything in between. That the great thing about this sport it has something for everyone. You can choose to embrace one or all aspects. I would say be it MTB, Cycle Cross, Road, Commuting, or Park Trails don't knock it until you try it, you never know what you may be missing.