I've been a Freda for a long time. Over last 18 yrs.

I've never had a bike with dropped down handlebars. And I have 4 bikes.
Nor have I ever cycled with skinny slicks.

C'est la vie.
Meanwhile I have done 500+, 1,000+ kms. touring rides, etc. with packed panniers.

It makes me giggle whenever I hear of roadies who absolutely refuse to ride with panniers. Sure it's not suitable on their road bike frame..but some would just refuse to cycle any bike with a bike rack. That attitude is just ancient.