OP
OP
Winnershsaint
Guru
Some fascinating responses, even those which are at odds with my OP. They certainly seem to demonstrate the range of different options at that price point. I take the point about S-Works something that applies other premium manufacturers such as Bianchi. You only have to go past Starbucks in Henley on Thames at a weekend to see exactly what the well heeled MAMIL in the South-East and Home Counties rides. Saw a guy in a LBS walk out with with a Cervelo R3 equipped with Di2 Ultegra and non stock wheels on saturday. In some cases it's another world. I've just read an article from Frank Strack (curator of the rules for the initiated) who says thus in the November edition of Cyclist magazine,
"The fact is high end kit and equipment generally performs better and better performing gear generally makes riding more fun. While there is a certain element of diminishing return, none of us are making a living out of riding our bikes and that means we are riding for enjoyment first and function second. The bikes and kit we choose should be dictated more by our fancy and our budgetary choices." He finishes by saying , " Buy the gear you want for your own reasons, not because someone else might think it's appropriate."
I hope the thread title was not misleading. By 'bike of a lifetime' I wasn't referring to buying a bike which would necessarily last for the rest of my cycling life. I am sure there will probably be a few N+1 moments in the future. Its more about being able to spend this level of money on a bike almost certainly for the only time.
"The fact is high end kit and equipment generally performs better and better performing gear generally makes riding more fun. While there is a certain element of diminishing return, none of us are making a living out of riding our bikes and that means we are riding for enjoyment first and function second. The bikes and kit we choose should be dictated more by our fancy and our budgetary choices." He finishes by saying , " Buy the gear you want for your own reasons, not because someone else might think it's appropriate."
I hope the thread title was not misleading. By 'bike of a lifetime' I wasn't referring to buying a bike which would necessarily last for the rest of my cycling life. I am sure there will probably be a few N+1 moments in the future. Its more about being able to spend this level of money on a bike almost certainly for the only time.
) leave me utterly cold and disinterested, while I do like a mosey around Pearson's own range, ignoring the Trek and Specialized! And 
