I always equate bikes like shoes, or cars, because most non riders will be able to relate. You can get either at a wide range of price points. Some is fancy, some is crap. But there is a point in between where durability, comfort, cost of maintenance, and value for money seems to be. You'll pay more than the bottom barrel price, but come in way less than the fancy luxury brands.

It's the difference between a Toyota Corolla and a Lada.