I don't have my Vanilla to flaunt money or status (if you saw the way I dress, you'd understand!), I just enjoy having fancy, beautiful bikes. The hobby has paid for itself for the most part, and I usually buy at a price where I can get most of my money back when needed. Things don't convey talent or status to me...money doesn't in and of itself either. There are some things that I admire and enjoy...and bikes are one of them. I do like when others admire it, but it's not a look at me, I have money thing either. It's about sharing appreciation for something well made or beautiful that others also like.

I'm impressed with ability and achievement. Paris Hilton has money. That in and of itself doesn't mean that much to me.

People with huge money aren't using bikes as status symbols.