This.

I watched the video and thought that, if he had been riding a traditionally geared bike it would have appeared much the same.

I can see see the real value of S&S or folding capability for air/bus/train travel and would invest in it if I were doing a lot. But the Pinion system just seems to give more negatives in terms of lack of service support than positives in terms of increased performance at a pretty steep cost.

When my knee gets better (knock on wood) I plan to invest in a faster UL touring/road bike similar to those ridden in the Trans Am race (well, probably a lower tier model anyway) as that is area of touring that interests me and that I want to devote a good chunk of training towards. When I put in the work and begin finding my progress limited by the bike, I'll upgrade in a way that gives measurable benefits.

Also, watch where you are riding. Yesterday on my SS I was looking down at my rear brakes wondering if they were rubbing when..

Wham!

Rode straight into the back of a parked car.

Over the handlebars and onto the ground. Took the stem nut in the thigh. Thank goodness the bike was ok!

zzzzzzzzzz20170720_195548[1] by dc460, on Flickr