Interesting that you are a shop owner and similar to me. Personally, I spend plenty on cycling. Even though my bikes are entry level, I still have $1000 worth of bikes just considering retail price of the bikes when i got them. Add onto that the fact that I've upgraded all of my bikes quite a bit and you could easily add another thousand, or close to it.

So I already have a couple thousand wrapped up in bikes. Yet I still ride what are considered entry level bikes. I don't know why I would think that i need a "better" bike, other than the fact that I am just a consumer minded American.

More, more, better, better. THat is how most Americans think.I'm just as guilty in some areas of my life but there are some things where I won't lose control. For instance, I drive cars that are nice but older. My newest car is now 5 years old.

Same goes with the bikes, I prefer to remain level headed and avoid the big purchase. I'm just afraid that the current affordable bikes might feel better under me than a bike that cost over $1000.