Real world scenario for me.

Mid March: I cant go to the gym due to C19. So I decided to start riding again after a few year hiatus. Get me KHS off the garage wall to start riding it. Needs a tune bad and all the LBS are backed up 2-3 weeks and also have very few if any new bikes in stick.

April: After getting KHS tuned up a bit. Still no bikes available at LBS. Find bikesdirect on line and order one of the last $1000 Carbon, group 105, basic wheels etc. Take it to LBS for final assembly and tune. Bike is actually pretty decent. Ride it for 3 months or so and realize I love riding and want to do this for awhile.

July: Decide to buy a better (more expensive) road bike. Look around at LBS, still very limited stock. Find a few Specialized to test ride but have to order and wait for right fit. Always loved Bianchl and find a Bianchi LBS dealer near me that has a few to test and can order my size for a good price.

August: New Bianchi Infinito CV Disc arrives and I am in love. Just about 5x more expensive with a few needed accessories as the Online bike from April. The new Bianchi is wonderful but not 5x as good in a quantifiable way. I am lucky to be able to afford what I would like to ride. I ride 120 plus or minus a week, riding the Bianchi 90% of the time.

I do like the Bianchi more than the $1000 bike even though the technical differences are not 5x improved. The design, subtle feel and my individual satisfaction from all that comes with a “better” bike make it worth 10x more to me. Many factors, some not completely rational make me feel this way. RESULTS MAY VARY.

October: Not only do I ride a decent amount for me, I have spent a significant amount on lights, computers, shoes and kit.
will be going out at 6:30 am for 90 minutes before wifey is up this morning.