My turn. I raced as a Cat1. You rode what they gave you. Pros are in the same boat. They ride what they're given. The branding sometimes didn't add up to what was under the paint. Since I no longer get free bikes, I get to choose. I think you can get professional level equipment with judicious purchasing and sourcing although it may not have the branding that the pros get.

Since I'm not getting subsidized by sponsors and team, I choose to ride as logo-less as possible. Companies like pedal force, boyd, etc. put high-level gear out there at great pricing. Because, right now, your only sponsor is bianchi10. So don't look like a cyclist. Be a cyclist.