Why is there talk of hydraulic disc brakes (or mechanical for that matter) on a Riv thread? Why is this thread even still going? I love it!
Fact of that matter is, alot of bike frames cost $2k plus, ALOT. I'm not sure why Riv takes the brunt of the criticism when they are just one of who knows how many bike manufactures who make nice bikes that cost a good deal of money. Yes there are cheaper options, but it is this way with everything in life. To some people buying a new $20k car is a waste of money when used ones are available for cheaper. Others can afford a $50k car. All cars will get you to your destination.
Some people can afford and enjoy the finer things in life, while others don't feel the need or can't afford those same things. Don't argue the value and reliability of a LHT vs. the Atlantis. They both work great and both do there job well, but they are different. My $60 Eddie Bauer watch tells time just as well as a $500 Seiko, which tells time just as well as a $2500 Tag Heuer.
All things being equal, sometimes the higher price tag makes the bike more desirable because less people can afford them, which makes them more rare.