I appreciate the 'looking cool' aspect, even though most people who see me out riding in real life think I look a little crazy and nuts; but I also intend to keep riding for as long as I'm able, some of the guys (and gals) I go on veteran cycle club rides with are still regularly riding in their 70 's, 80 's and even their 90 's and to do that you need good knees and you're not going to be doing that with your saddle way down, and they're certainly not racing (not until they've imbibed a few beers that is).
Anyway, enjoy your riding, whatever your reason for doing it is!
I love to see anyone out enjoying this hobby, even the "mamils".