You've made many excellent points and I agree with most of them. someone mentioned the road bike issue. But then again, if your just plain "all season beater" was a MTB then that would solve the problem. for some people it's the idea of "the right tool for the job" Personally, I have many bikes, but mostly ride one or one of the tandems. But I ride what I guess would be considered a low end hybrid. (2007 Marin Kentfield) I bought it in January and have ridden it every day since. I bought it because I wanted it and wanted to ride it. If something breaks or wears out, I'll replace it just like I would any other bike. I live in south east michigan so we actually do see decent "winter conditions" often enough. I just don't see spending the money I did on that bike (I know, not a lot for a new bike, but it was my first new bike since I was 15 and that was a POS I bought and that was the only other new bike I've ever had) and letting it sit in the garage on bad days. I bought it to ride it. I take care of it, maintain it and will upgrade parts as needed. that's how it goes.