Until I got the 18650, I would of agreed with this based on - oh I could get it from local convenient store if it runs out - but now it doesn't make sense.

I think most of us uses rechargeable - and most of us carry spares (me, bunch of spares). I think we also buy these items in advance or via mail order, which also negate "get it from convenient store"

As for my riding condition - I'm never that far from home when commuting or when I go for a long ride (on weekends), there's no stores anywhere on these remote locales.

I love these lithium based batteries. They hold better charges and hold more capacity. And they last longer than Nimh/Nicd.

Am I missing something?