For me its so much the machine itself.I came back to the USA after living abroad for 20 years flat broke and in need of cheap transportation.I bought a Walmart bike and that got me around for 4 years adequately.I rode a few day trips huffing and puffing thinking 20 miles was a huge distance but the biking certainly didn't grab me.God blessed me one day and the bike was stolen!I had heard that the old steel bikes were special and could be found for cheap on e-bay and bid and won a Trek 330 for about $250 delivered.I was lucky.It was in like new condition and after my LBS put it together and tuned it I got on and it was like bells started to ring and the ground shook!!The stability!Smoothness feel quickness!!Like I never had been on a bike before.That was 2 and a half years ago and haven't looked back.Now I ride a Pinarello (vintage steel) and as I posted did a century for my birthday.I build wheels and fix my bikes and even support myself partially giving guided bike tours in NYC!I love to be on my bike!!