My picador trike is easier to ride with a bit of weight in the back basket, otherwise it can be quite skittish to steer. Still adore it though.
I have had many bikes over decades, mainly Raleigh's. My top favourite was a Raleigh Wayfarer from 1972', a real workhorse that took me everywhere in my teens. It had a steel frame, front basket, rear basket that hung off old fashioned steel sprung saddle. It had no gears until I had 3 speed fitted.
It rusted away in the she'd over the years. I thought the Pashley Princess would be a similar replacement for the wayfarer as it too was step-through etc.
I was very wrong.
I know the Pashley is slow and heavy because I use all my bikes on the same stretch of cycle track and time my journey (to the pub) . My 16 gear mountain bike is fastest and my replacement revamped Wayfarer is a close second (it whirs along nicely). The PAshley is the slowest for the same about of effort and it's not a smooth ride. It a fight to get the PAshley going.
Which is why you find so map any almost new machines on eBay and why I shall be selling mine.
Also, the front basket can stop you seeing ruts and stones. The sit and beg position is good for preventing back ache.
You can get a PIcador on its side in the average large hatchback, or take it on the train. A courier would cost you about £25. I wouldn't consider riding one 100 miles.