and why, indeed, shouldn't anyone have their titanium/carbon frames, their carbon wheels and bars and their 20 speed superbikes. Just because they're not necessary, doesn't mean they're not nice to have, and perhaps to ride.

The difference between a really light frame (1000-1200g) and a really "heavy" modern road frame (1500-1800?g) is not even two pounds. Pick your parts carefully and you can make up this difference easily without sacrificing strength and often without adding to the cost too much. Riding a frame/fork which is too light for your weight and riding style detracts from the ride and limits you. If you're bigger, you can push a heavier bike around anyway. The flyweight guys on the Grand Tours are not in the same market as most of us!

- Joel