I could not agree more, Cruiserhead, and I do not doubt I delude myself. I have already said, a low bar position can "feel fast" even when it is not.

At the same I think that "self delusion" may be what drives upright cycling positions. Rather than riding in a way that would match aerodynamic realities of their ride, people get kitted out with a image of themselves in a UCI/TT race, and ride away deluding themselves that they are one the racers.

At the moment the privileged 'mint' or 'point of caption' between image and language -- ride positions in space and the race positions in time that certify them - are the famous UCI and TRI races, so folks generally verify their ride position against those of these race pros, because it is very difficult to do otherwise. At the same time there are a lot of people on Strava asking for more photograph sharing functionality.

Perhaps when it is easier to post pictures of ones ride on Strava, and search for them, against KOM/segment position, it may become apparent that the KOMs are not necessarily riding certain bike brands, but perhaps people who are riding certain geometries and frame materials. Maybe. Or maybe, as you say, I am just delusional.

I have attempted to start a thread at Strava to find out though it may not be appropriate for their 'support' forums.
https://strava.zendesk.com/entries/5...ike-look-like-

But then, all these 'anchoring points' are probably to make up for lack of a 150 in the box.