I didn't necessarily gain any respect for him from the specific ride, I just like the way he rides. I liked his segment in Mash (sw8). From what I've seen, he loves riding, which I can relate with. He has gained notoriety for riding his bike, and I don't care where this popularity stems from and for what reasons. The same reason why I have a lot of respect for Ranier Schafer; they ride hard.
Again, serious questions here:
You are obviously one who is touched by this scene. Are you into the riding, the accomplishments, or the attitude? When you write that you have a lot of respect for them because they "ride hard", what exactly does that mean? Are you being swayed by music and video camera techniques?