Windows, like Linux, does have distributions that each OEM customizes for their hardware. They even do it for servers. You don't have to think to put up a desktop or server running Windows 2000, XP, or Server 2003 if you have an OEM machine.
I know Dell, IBM, and HP/Compaq do this. That's a good chunk of the PC market there. Heck, my ThinkPad came with a CD that puts all the apps on it except Office. Drivers, too.
Apple can do this, because they have so little hardware to deal with. Panther does this well.
Most users don't want to deal with that. They want to stick the CD in and have their applications. Linux is a long way from there. It's much further ahead than it was in 1999.
Lindows, as unpopular as it is with the Slashdot crowd because it opens up Linux to non-l33t people, is taking Linux where it needs to be for increasing the user base by providing a UI and support for it that doesn't involve arrogant pricks, newsgroups, or Google. Two words: Mplayer FAQ.
However, as I said before, I use computers to use them, not to take part in a political movement, so I stick with what works
.
You can talk all you want about it being ready for the home desktop, or you can see what Lindows is doing to put it there.
Mitch