$3k has been my barrier since the late 80's. Unfortunately $3k no longer seems to get you in an "Ultegra level" bike. Sad. About 4 years ago that was a $2k price-point.

Still....purchase price pales in comparison to what you eventually pay for using and owning it, and there are so many other hobbies out there that are more expensive....but that doesn't stop me from thinking... "it's just a bike" when I get to the $3k level.

Happens all the time now. Sad really.