My understanding is that IPA are extremely forgiving compared to lagers, because the hops. If so, that explains to some degree why microbreweries like to make

My understanding is that IPA are extremely forgiving compared to lagers, because the hops. If so, that explains to some degree why microbreweries like to make them, they're probably considerably easier to make in a consistent quality than a lager. It makes good sense to build a name and reputation on easier to produce items and use that to perfect more complex and demanding things.