I think they're both riding in the style they're familiar with - it might look like a disadvantage to Teethgrinder to have to ride in grim British weather, but he's close to home, riding roads and routes he knows, returning to home, knowing the limits and where to push it. I don't think that's necessarily a disadvantage.
The simplicity of TG'e approach, and the fact that he's ridden in this way for years, makes it a perfect fit for him.
I do love the grassroots feel of it, too, but I couldn't imagine him riding any other way.