I had to reread that a couple times as I was trying to figure out how a server can be cute (somehow the part about being friends with it wasn't that surprising) :)
Creative thinking in the bathroom is probably less an effect of being naked as it is being in a private space with nothing better to think about. Otherwise, you could write another article about all the ideas people have on the toilet, titled "The Benefit of Pooping."
Is it "private space with nothing to think about" or running water?
Based on my experience from time spent in private spaces with nothing to think about that don't have running water, I'm inclined to doubt the significance of the effect of running water.
I think it is more about the fact that you are going through a routine that requires no conscious thought on your part so your mind is free to wander while you are still being productive.
Unless you have got a really safe place to ride, cycling takes too much attention. That's one reason I walk a lot. (Also, you can't take notes while riding - if you don't write it down as soon as you can, you will usually forget it.) Also, walking in the dark helps by cutting down on outside distractions.
I had to reread that a couple times as I was trying to figure out how a server can be cute (somehow the part about being friends with it wasn't that surprising) :)