I think this comes down to a difference is perspective of trains. Coming from a European perspective when I first read the analogy I was imagining the incredible fast passenger trains over here (~320km/h).
I suspect if you are coming from the perspective of a US rail user then yes, they aren't exactly known for high speed train travel.
I suspect if you are coming from the perspective of a US rail user then yes, they aren't exactly known for high speed train travel.