'sissy gears' -
wasn't that the top tube shifter on a Stingray?
People need to find what they like, and go with it. I'm very happy with a 50-34 in the pacific northwest.
The attitude of just being 'trained' to be 'tough enough' to ride a standard is chestbeating. I ride many thou, and I wanted to enjoy my riding more with slightly lower gearing.