I certainly cannot feel a 1% difference. If we are on a enjoy the view type of ride the I could care less about the 1%.

On the other hand if we are trying to chase down some single then I like to have the most efficient machine possible regardless of feel. Actually how a bike feels can mislead the rider about speed. My wife's Miata feels fast as I feel every bump in the road when driving it. A big Lexus can go much faster and feel much slower.

I find the mention of a stoker putting their feet up interesting. This just goes to show that there are different strokes for different folks. That is most definitely not how we roll. Our machine is a tandem with a team pulling the load and not a pedicab. My wife HATES the "she not pedaling" comment.

Enjoy your ride.

Wayne