Bike prices really exploded during COVID. there was a huge increase in demand once the gov sent the covid checks. Combined with virtually no supply with asian manufacturing shutting down. 

I haven't looked at new bikes in a while, but when I was in the shop last summer I saw one marked around $20k. I couldn't believe it. 

Voldemort

To be fair, mine was a custom build with some upgraded components. You can certainly get them for less. I opted to splurge after I got a nice raise. Plus I sold 2 bikes for $4k to offset the cost. 

Titanium bikes were not 10,000 dollars back in my day. That was about 10 years ago. I should check how prices have evolved.

south_korea_ln

Something expensive worth buying

Bikers love spending, for sure.

My Zwift membership is my recent splurge. I do love it, totally worth it.