To an extent, it's true. If a bike doesn't turn or brake safely, there's something wrong. That said, every bike can turn or brake well if nothing is broken or worn out. Even my neighbour's ratty scooter can turn and brake.
But this is a review, I'm nitpicking. I place it on a higher standard than what an average joe expects to get out of riding one, not merely if it can do the minimum needed to fulfill the task.
The ergos are very subjective though, I did mention my height just to give others roughly the same build as me some perspective.