VIVE LE DIFFERENCE!!!
Wow, I felt like greased lightning this morning on my new dream bike. Shaved 5 minutes off my commute (now 24 minutes vs. 18 by car), feasted on the hills that had sapped my resolve on the old steel 35 pounder. Once I really become one with this ride, I may choose the 50% longer, but more buccolic route.
Downsides:
1) I'm getting noticeably less exercise due to my bike's efficiency.
2) Much less cargo room, necessitating the weekend delivery of supplies