I would say it's probably because of the size of the blockchain. New adopters won't want to invest so much time in download over 30GB as there are no incentives/benefits whatsoever to running a Bitcoin node. So that leaves the people that truly believe in Bitcoin. I used to run a node on my notebook, but not anymore, since my connection wasn't fast enough for the size of the blockchain. Now, I have a couple nodes running on VPS systems, since they're relatively cheap to run.
Well, you should consider the fact that we're here participating in a system where we run our own infrastructure, providing a payment network where nobody simply can block a payment or an account because they don't like you.
If you want to use bitcoin, you can use a light wallet, or bitcoin core, or a webwallet. The safest solution is to keep private keys in your own posession. If you chose to run the Bitcoin Core, then the initial sync might take some time. Perhaps 1 to 2 days. But I don't see how that's a big problem. You install the software, and then let i run till it has completed synching. Most people these days have solid broadband internet connections, and most harddrives are 500Gb and up. Once you have synched the blockchain, you only need to connect sporadically to keep up to date with the blocks, or just let it run on your computer..
If you're more dedicated, go for a vps or dedicated server.
People go to banks all the time and initiate the process of making a bank account. First you have to physically move in meatspace to the designated branch. Which can be stressful enough in itself. Then you have to wait in line, being exposed for all kinds of unnecessary chatter and viruses and bacteria that other humans carry around.
After you get to the counter, you have to present your ID, this is photocopied, and then you go through whatever process the bank require to open the account. Then you have to reverse the process of getting physically to the bank, and once the most preferable geolocation of your representation in meatspace is restored, your home, you have to wait for days before you finally get whatever card the bank wants to offer you.
Finally you can use your bank account.
In addition, if you do something nefarious, like trading at localbitcoins (oh gosh - you're such a criminal!), or if you just do whatever that's outside getting a paycheck from your employer and shopping at main stream shopping centers and approved online stores like amazon, you risk your entire
account being discontinued.
In addition, the bank will know about every purchase you do. And the statements on your bank account will be given to the tax-authorities every year. And if you happen to have a relative outside the borders of your nation (oh my gosh - you must be a terrorist financier!) don't be surprised if the transaction is delayed for days and days until it's finally cleared, no mentioning how much stress that causes for the recipient.
So what we have here, is some of the best opportunities in human history to transact easily and quickly between free individuals on planet earth, without getting an anal examination by our overlords, and although it usually takes less time to download the blockchain than to get the payment card from your evil bank which might cause any kind of troubles on a bankers whim, people still complain..!
Synching the blockchain is really no problem, you just install the software, and then it all happens by itself, you just wait. And while you wait, you can do all kinds of interesting things, like for instance call a friend and go for a hike in the woods. Bring a tent and fishing equipment. I promise, once you get home, you're now part of the most cutting edge international financial payment system in existence!
