Originally Posted by
adebrunner
Would you buy a bike that rode like a dream, had the highest-end components and otherwise was comparable to a $2,000-$3,000 bike, but it costs like $500 said "Huffy", "Roadmaster", "Next" or "Magna" and the components weren't badged at all? Or would you rather buy a $2,000-$3,000 bike from the LBS and bask in the glory as everyone looked jealously at your ride? This is assuming that you have reasonable means to buy either bike.
I was just wondering because I think I'd have a hard time riding around something that was labeled like the cheapest possible brand. Not trying to offend owners of these bikes, as they are a perfect pick for an introduction to riding without breaking the bank, but I'm curious to see if anyone would take the cost difference for an image boost.
I could care less what the 'label' says. It is all in how the machine performs. I have a 5 year old Trek 1000 and a 2007 ActionBent 'bent - and the 'bent is the most expensive thing I've bought in almost 10 years @ $700. I drive a 20 year old bronco II that looks like CRAP. I got it for free (needed a tranny) and I spend less than $300 a year in maintenance.
Come to think of it....... I haven't owned a car that was less than 15 years old in about 15 years.