Originally Posted by
mazdaspeed
The smaller changes in gearing do make a difference if you're riding at the limit.
What percentage of riders who insist on 10 speed ride "at the limit" for any period of time. Do all 10 speed users time trial everywhere?
The simple truth is that the VAST majority of riders can't "outride" their bikes, no matter if they're 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 speed...carbon, aluminum, steel, or titanium.
The arguments you're trying to support only apply to a miniscule minority of riders.