FWIW I was riding a steel Rourke, geared, as I rode 80km to the start. I also had the 80km to ride back after so wasn't in a hurry. Whether a rider rides a lot or not is of no concern but being able to ride in close proximity to others is. The fact that Hat felt unsafe might be addressed by learning more but she clearly feels that she is sufficiently adept to not require this.
FWIW I was riding a steel Rourke, geared, as I rode 80km to the start. I also had the 80km to ride back after so wasn't in a hurry. Whether a rider rides a lot or not is of no concern but being able to ride in close proximity to others is. The fact that Hat felt unsafe might be addressed by learning more but she clearly feels that she is sufficiently adept to not require this.