Q: Why is there so much bed shortening going on?

[cstanley]

I understand that shortbed versions of our trucks are generally more desirable, but why? for those of you who drive shortbeds or want shortbeds, it the reason a sportier look? does it handle better (besides the obvious weight difference?) i'm definitely not slamming anyone, not my intention. just trying to understand, because it seems like a lot of effort is being put into bed shortening, and i just feel like i'm missing it. aside from whether or not you think they look good/personal preference, what is being gained?

shortbed owners, correct me where i'm wrong, but from my past experience, a shortbed, when compared to a longbed:

rides stiffer/rougher, and can't tote as much (not that anyone would dream of using a truck for that!)

is it that shortbeds are just popular right now? i understand shortbeds for the reasons behind extending the cab (you effectively still have a long wheelbase truck anyway)
sport racing, autocross, etc.
maneuverability?
resale value?

right now i have a longbed and an extended cab shortbed (that i curse on a near daily basis as to what good the short bed really is.) in all fairness, my shortbed also has a toolbox on it, which makes me feel like it's got a bed the size of a hummer pickup.