Please help me understand, why buy a carbon bike?

Sure, the Pro's ride them, but if your a recreational rider, even a serious one, I still don't understand the rational for buying a carbon bike.

I've read comments and threads on carbon bikes, seen the pictures of cracked frames, and understand the idea of lighter, faster and ride comfort, except steel and Ti can achieve similar performance, carbon bikes just don't add up.

I could go on, but I'll wait to read what others think.........