Completely disagree regarding the network effect of Uber vs. Lyft. The system is highly network dependent. Most Uber drivers would prefer to drive for Lyft because Lyft pays more (partially why they're losing more money than Uber), but in most markets Lyft doesn't have as many riders that use the service. As a driver, you want to maximize time spent with a fare vs. fare-hunting. Similarly, as a rider, you are weighing price vs. time meaning most people will pay more $ to wait less for their ride.
Most drivers I talk to drive for both and keep both on, but get more pings on Uber than on Lyft. In SF Lyft has more mind-share and it's a more even split.
FWIW I've lived in both SF and NYC since the rise of these services.