Horndude expressed some sentiments similar to mine using the Merckx analogy. I think we make a mistake getting too analytical when looking at human performance. The website mentioned above tells me that a reduction of X grams leads to Y gain in avg speed over N miles just like it was real math. With a constant output engine I wouldn't doubt it but the human being, even in top form is very much a variable output motor.

The fact is today's riders aren't riding much if any faster than 20 years ago despite tremendous changes in bikes and perhaps training. I like that to be honest. It keeps the connection between past and present very much alive in the sport. I happen to think that Eddy M. could hop out of the time machine and, if he found a team that'd work for him, give Lance and the boys a hard time regardless of the difference in bikes. There's just so many human factors involved in racing that they'll never be all quantified.