OK I realize I'm preaching to the choir but I did a little noodling to justify getting a better bike (it always helps to rationalize)

Based on the Gov't of Canada's mileage allowance rate (which is probably conservative - sorry, no pun intended) of $0.52 per km if your weekly commute totals 100km you're saving about $52 per week (includes depreciation, repairs etc). Here in our frozen tundra I figure I can reasonably commute 26 weeks a year on average - some hardy souls ride all year 'round - which translates into saving $1,352 per year plus the cost of parking.

The bonus is that you also save on having to buy a gym membership!

So, based on this logic my new bike really cost me nothing (my wife remains somewhat skeptical of my mathematical prowess)