Originally Posted by
nesdog
...I do ride several thousand miles a year...
Several thousand miles a year? That takes some self-discipline and commitment. In my book that alone makes you deserving of a nice bike, irrespective of retirement.
For 27 years I've been bike commuting to work 3-4 days a week with one or two longer rides a weekend. Four years ago my wife told me to go buy a new commuter bike to my liking. I got exactly what I wanted, although I did get a deal. Bottom line...I love bike commuting even more now.
If you know what you want, and it feels right in all other ways except money, and you can do the money...buy it! You deserve it.