Originally Posted by
veganbikes
There are certainly differences.
Of course there are, and to varying degrees those differences will matter more to some riders than they will to others.
The biggest jump in quality and ride is between cheap department store bikes, and entry level bike shop bikes. (or bikes from some of the better online suppliers, like BD) Above this level, differences are not so profound… especially on a simple fixed gear bike.
Don’t forget too, the power of the Placebo effect. After doling out loads of cash, the urge to “feel” a faster, stiffer, (yet more comfortable!) ride is very strong. And too, when friends or forum members give us the high five of approval for our choice of $$$$ bikes, that only increases the “difference” felt.
Again, I’m not saying there is NO difference, just that it can easily be exaggerated. I'm sure I've even done it.
But our economy is built on consumers spending more, even if that means taking on debt. So it’s all good! 
Last edited by AlmostTrick; 02-23-17 at 08:55 AM.