Seems to me there is a theory, that voicing the opinion that he is not likely to get the record, might be a self-fulfilling prophecy - i.e. speculating that he won't achieve it will in itself make him less likely to.
Could be that those who are aggreived at postulation that he will fall short are doing so because they believe that that will in itself hamper his chances.
In other words, if this theory is true, then being aggreived at such pessimistic evaluations would appear justified, but those who don't believe it have difficulty understanding why non-cheerleading posts get people's backs up.
That assumes that Steve is reading this avidly, rather than cycling avidly, and that any perceived negative expression here will directly affect either his mental capabilities to retain his focus on the attempt, or his physical ability to do so.
I have never met Steve personally, but a characteristic of other athletes I have met, who were at the top of their game is an unswerving self belief. I can't see that this thread could conceivably dent that.
I think this thread now serves as nothing else than willy-waving by the various protagonists.
BTW - I have utmost respect for Steve, whether he makes the record or not, he will be cycling in one year further than I have cycled in my entire lifetime in all likelihood, and I do not feel qualified to comment on his ability to achieve it or not.