I agree that you have some pretty ridiculous analogies. I completely respect anyone's right to go buy an X-mart bike. The purpose of forums like these is to share information and to educate.

Everyone has the right to ignore this advice. I am sure plenty do. My username comes from the fact that i started out with a "Schwinn" ranger from target a couple of years ago. I got advice from everyone on here to get a better bike. After a few rides I was smart enough to see what they were saying.

4 LBS bikes and 10,000 or so miles later and i am very grateful for that advice. I am thankful for the target bike in the respect that it got me into cycling. I am even more grateful to the members that told me, i would likely appreciate a better bike.