I am somewhat of a budget rider. I have performance brand shades and jerseys etc.
My Ciocc is not sub 17 lbs...and there is no carbon fiber.
I just simply demand that my equipment is clean, precision tuned, quiet, and functions at a high level. I want my machine to be low maintenance, comfortable, durable and dependable.
If I want to race it... I can. If I want to go out and do a century...I can. Club rides, training, etc.
That said...I do dream about a carbon Orbea Orca with Dura ace 10 or Campy Record....and Ksyrium SL's.
But all I really need is my steel Ciocc and my favorite 30 mile loop. I'm content.
"a man's discontent can be accurately measured by guaging the distance between what he has and what he wants"