I don't understand how a woman these days couldn't do just as well as Lance or Jan or whomever in an endurance race. I mean, there's this 6'1" Korean girl on the PGA Tour, and she does pretty well considering she's only 16. The best rider at my messengering outfit is a chick. So physicality isn't really a limiting factor, I don't think. With advances in nutrition and training and whatnot, I think a woman's ability to take pain and stress can make up for her lack of strength. The top ultra-marathoner at one point was a woman, so why not the top bike racer, or among the top cyclists? Riding isn't just about muscle, it's about the total package.
As for politics, I don't think so. Remember, in France, the majority of state level elected offices are held by women. I think if a woman could compete, she would. That fabled "She" just hasn't shown up yet. But I don't doubt she will.
So women, get out there and ride. I think chicks would look heaps better in that T-Mobile jersey anyway.
Either that, or women are too timid and don't think they could compete, and thus keep thinking they need their own little world. Which reminds me: Why isn't this is the women only forum?