I just managed to resist buying a new bike, I was thinking of getting a Randonee at REI to supplement my cheap $300 hybrid which is rolling over 10,000 miles this week. But then I realized, I really don't need a new bike. I'm happy with what I have.
If I ever decide to do > 2 or 3 day tours, I'll think about a new bike. I'm 43 years old, I'm foolin' myself if I think I have any good use for a "fast" bike.

I actually go through this every spring. I get the bug for a new bike, and wander the shops. Then one weekend I clean and lube and adjust my bike, and after one ride I say "What the hell, there's nothing wrong with this bike!"

Friends keep telling me "but other bikes have so much better components!" What? The bike shifts into whatever gear I click it to instantly. The brakes modulate great and work great in the rain. What more do I want?"

I'm probably going to do the same I do for cars; see how long I can keep using the same old one.