I suppose there are list members who own truly classic cycles that have real historical value. If I owned a 50 year old cycle ridden on the Tour or Giro it would safely hang in the den or possibly at my office. Nevertheless temptation would be to take it for a spin now and then.
My own practice is to ride the Colnago Super or the recently completed '76 Masi GC restoration only on dry sunny days over good roads. I even built up ride wheels so that the Martano tubular rims with NR high flange hubs remain pristine for show. So I guess its a mix of philosophies.
I recall we went through this analysis about a year ago and one list member kept up the hobby despite the fact that he no longer rode a bicycle. I found nothing unsettling about that at all! Its about appreciation for the frames, components, dedication, art and engineering, I think.
I just hope that the aesthetic of a perfectly restored Gran Criterium is not depreciated by the fact that my ugly butt is riding it.
Regards,
Carlo Carr (Used to collect stamps but I mailed them all)