I have chosen to believe that Jan Heine is essentially truthful. Surely not always right (no one is), but based on the fact that he is perfectly willing to put his real name on tests results found using methodology that he is happy to share points to transparency and honesty in my opinion.

Sure it could be some extravagant conspiracy, but I have a hard time swallowing the idea that he spends so much time and energy pushing old timey French rando bikes. I could be wrong, I suppose. If anyone has a better source of information, I would like to see it!

As to what the pros use, the evidence seems pretty clear to me at this point. The extra comfort may be a bonus to them, but it is a criteria for me - so long as it's not slowing me down too much. I am of the opinion that comfort is a performance advantage after many hours in the saddle. If my body feels more fresh, I can push harder and use whatever power I still have in me. If I'm feeling beat up and achey, I have no ambition to pedal.