I only have one vice, once the household bills are paid, and that is cycling. 3 bikes, 2 x Mountain and 1 x mountain tandem, The solos are well sorted, came with suitable parts bolted to them and the only cost for them is maintenace. Not a fantastic amount in any ones terms, about £200 per year between the two. The Tandem though is a different matter. Bought for an arm and a leg 2 years ago, spent around £900 on upgrades last year, and this year has so far cost in excess of £1000. Luckily I can afford it but the Holiday in the Bahamas is on hold again for another year.
Honestly, barring breakages, maintenance does not cost a great deal. I am lucky in that I do all my own maintenance, but that is part of my enjoyment on cycling. It does not matter whether you have the latest ultra lightweight very expensive, best in the world bike when you start off, or a department store special. The enjoyment is the same whatever your bike. The only difference comes about when distance or hills come into the equation. And I will still bet that the fit rider on a wallmart special, will beat the poser that paid out all that money, but can't use it