I rebuild, re-tune, repair, and generally twiddle with bikes when I'm not riding them. But I wouldn't say that it's piddling by the author's definition. Every act is well considered, my work is organized, and I spend the minimum of time necessary to complete the task.

I've rebuilt or reconditioned seven bikes this winter/spring - for friends, myself, or for resale. None of it has been piddling. Satisfying, yes. Piddling, not so much.

It's just me, I guess.

By the way, the winter is a great time to fix the lawn mower. Late spring isn't.