This article is being "discussed" over on Bikeforums as well, and in looking at the article, and the responses there, I have a few comments.
First, for my reference point. I like many aspects of the GP/Rivendell view of cycling. My primary rider is a 1986 Schwinn Voyageur with a Technomic stem, Brooks B17 saddle (actually, it is a prototype with a cutout) and 27 x 1 & 1/4 tires. My lugged steel beauty. Where I differ, is it is modern Shimano 105 10 speed compact double with integrated shifters.
Anyway, what I see in both GP's interview, and some of the responses to it, is that there is some almost instinctive defensiveness on both sides. Without going back in history, I don't know (or care) who started it, but I can say that I do see it.
GP does mention that the bike companies are marketing as if everybody is a racer. This may or may not be true. But, he also at a few points makes statements and uses terms referring to non-racing cyclists that enjoy going fast that are negative. There is no need to do this, and it seems to be defensive, as do his comments about being attacked.
Likewise, he at other times says that if people want to ride racing bikes, then that is fine, but there should be bikes for the rest of the people. His view is that there should be a choice (even though he advocates anti-racer wannabe sometimes). The implication here is that there should be a variety and that even people that aren't racers should have racing bikes available if they want to ride fast. However, I see comments in the other forum that GP wants everyone to ride only Rivendell type bikes. A defensive and untrue view (based on my interpretation).
So, I think this combination of defensieness from both sides continues to feed on itself and makes both sides see the other as elitist. Reminds me of the recent Democratic primaries when both the Obama and Clinton sides here in my area accused the other candidate of being elitist...
So, after all of that, what would I like to leave everyone with... just that I like the influence of Grant Peterson on the cycling world to keep some of the old ways around, but it should be done without inhibiting the technology that makes sense for all, and even the bleeding edge for those that want it.
There was a guy in the Los Angeles area that said it best once...
"Can't we all just get along?"