There's a solution (well, many):
Explore2fs
Ext2 Installable File System For Windows
ext2fsd
Crossmeta
As you can see, it's not a problem reading ext2 FS on Windows. And with the last link, ext3, ReiserFS and XFS too.
How is it better to use someones API than Linux ones? I think having Linux "on your way" helps more than stops you from doing stuff. Look at how long has been needed to port Quake to the GP2X. I ask you (the ones that doesn't want Linux) have you programmed in DOS? It was fast, ok, but much...