Mechanically-speaking, the stiffness from the frame to the bars can be quite different from that from the frame to the front hub; this is particularly true if the fork is stiff, but the fork tube isn’t, and even more as overhangs get added (long distance from top bearing to stem, long stem). But while a “compliant” front-end can feel more comfortable, it comes with a loss of steering control, and power loss in sprints.
So performance-wise: if you’re into long rides on flat terrain, noodle is probably ok; if you’re into alpine descents at the edge of skidding down into an abyss or Cavendish-style sprint finishes, not so much.