I think a person will reach the point where the "upgrade" doesn't justify the price. Some already have. Each person has their line. From what I read on here it may not even be about overall money. It could be more about the all or nothing mentality the bike companies have adopted. Not much in between. My bike evolution stopped a long time ago when the companies went a different way than I needed/wanted. That's life. I said it before on some thread and I'll said it again. In the constant battle that is competition, the companies are attempting to make cycling as exclusive as possible. Not good for the overall health of the sport/hobby. That's my opinion. I could be wrong. It wouldn't be the first or the last time.