Jeff, you’re right. I would take my $2000 bike now over the Kona. In 2003 though my Kona was high end. Today my $2000 Diamondback Option is looked at as a ghetto bike in most circles. Even though many of the components are solid since it says “diamondback” on it people look down on it. My point is $2000 is the low end of the scale nowadays. So within 15yrs we went from $2000 being the higher end to now that is the benchmark for a decent bike. Even with inflation, quality upgrades and technology changes, doesn’t that seem a little off? I might just be out of it though because I feel the same way about trucks. An awesome truck 15yrs ago cost you around 20k now they are close to 40. I guess if you really love mtn biking you won’t care about the price. You’re investing in your passion and what you do for entertainment. People spend just as much on computers, boats and their cars.