Originally Posted by anthonya9999
What about control -- doesn't the extra weight on the frame reduce your control of the bike in turns, especially emergency maneuvers?
In addition to the center of gravity comments others have made, having extra weight over the rear tires (as opposed to centered) increases breaking effectiveness. In quick stops, weight shifts off the rear tire, dramatically decreasing it's breaking power. The extra weight helps hold the rear tire down, so the front break doesn't have to do as much work.