It is hard to describe.

Of course I felt very connected to my bike, but only in a mechanical way. What I meant with out of touch was that I couldn't feel my bike.

Kind of like holding something with vicegrips (for example a book) - no doubt the book is securely connected, but you are not feeling the book. Stupid example I know. I'll think of something better.

Anyway, it is all my personal feeling. I am not saying they are good or bad. The power transmission is unbelieveable.