Originally Posted by badkarma
If you want to upgrade, I'll have to agree on looking at the wheels. If you check the classifieds at
www.roadbikereview.com, you can get some AC350s for about 400, and the AC420s for about 500.
Seeing how you're a general fitness rider, just understand, you're not going to see a huge performance difference in the wheels (albeit, you will see a bit of a difference).
If the guy wants to upgrade, I see no problem with that. Some people just like to have sweet rides for the sake of it. I ride with plenty of Freds who have $5-6k bikes and pretty much use them for general fitness (although they won't admit it.....). If you can afford it, go for it.
You pretty much nailed it. I'm in good shape and pretty decent rider, but I don't have the commitment or time to ever get into racing. I do have a bad case of upgrade-itis though, and I appreciate the tech and beauty of great gear. That probably makes me a Fred, and I'm cool with that!
I got a pair of Specialized Pro Carbon shoes today, and can't wait to get home, mount my cleats, and take a spin!