Without being retro, and wishing to avoid being elitist, and certainly not OCP.........recreational cyclists can understand that the evolution of racing equipment does not parallel or move at the same pace as that of (even serious) recreational needs. Except that perceived needs, either inherent or manufactured by cycling marketers, makes it so. An old rant.

Seeing as how I don't have a tractor trailer full of whole bikes and spare parts following me, nor do I regard $40 chains as throwaway items, and I like relative peace of mind on fast downhill turns....I'll opt for a an extra few pounds (better that I shed a few of my own pounds instead of the bike) and a "bike for all seasons". I agree with John E. not for sentimental or "ye olde italianisme" reasons-- but for hardcore practical reasons.

I recall when most hot local riders bought their bikes from a local custom maker who ran a lawnmower repair in the front of his shop. They raced Cat 2 and even 1 and did just fine. Though no longer cutting edge for racing, those bikes still ride beautifully and, to make a point, they still ride.