Vintage looks, contemporary performance

The results were unequivocal. The riders hated 90s technology and were faster on their 21st century bikes.

Downtube shifters et al may have worked 20 years ago, and may work now for the majority of us here, however, they are not effective or adequate for those wanting to go fast.

Non sequitur. Of course you can go fast on old-style bikes, you're just faster on new-style bikes. :)