Well, part of the problem (at least for me) is that in America, bikes are recreational. So most bikes don't have anything that would help utility - no fenders, no racks, no lights. An upgrade as soon as I buy the bike is essential, or I am not able to ride the bike for the purpose I bought it. Apart from those three, the only other parts I am upgrading are the pedals - I'm going to go clipless soon. No saddle change required yet, and this is on a base Sirrus.

So you are partially right - some upgrades are required because the bikes are lacking, but other upgrades aren't really needed on a new bike.