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Why are readers so mad about my $1,700 bicycle?
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The Toronto Star-By Alison Griffiths
“Irresponsible”, “ridiculous”, “misuse of power”, “misleading” and “stupid”. These were all accusations and comments launched at me July 13th when I wrote about my big summer splurge -- a bicycle.
A goodly number of readers were outraged when I pointed out that my $1700 purchase amounted to only $4.72 a month if I kept this new bike for as long as the beloved, and well-ridden predecessor – 30 years. I confess to being a little taken aback by the vitriol, even though the temperature hovered in the mid-thirties that week.
Many of those who lambasted me seemed annoyed that I could afford such a luxury as a $1700 bike. Fair enough. I too get a twinge of the green monster occasionally when I talk to people who regularly take fabulous European vacations or renovate homes top to toe with all the mod cons from granite countertops to cork flooring and professional landscaping. But why should a bicycle, albeit one that cost more than a two-wheeler from Canadian Tire, incite such anger?
In my view, I did everything right. I saved up for the purchase, will use it almost year round, will care for it lovingly until I can’t pedal any more and I’ll save a great deal on gas over time. Not only that but my bike will make me healthier which means I’ll likely save on healthcare spending as well and I’ll be reducing my carbon footprint riding it for exercise rather than driving the car to the gym (and if you’re working up indignation over driving to the gym, public transit doesn’t exist where I live.)
Amortizing major purchases over the period they will be used is actually a good way of putting them into perspective. Dinner for two at a fine restaurant with wine can easily cost $150 to $200 in a major city. The pleasure may be great, but a week after the meal what do you have? Just a nice memory!
Norm, a Moneyville reader, wrote that my irresponsibility in writing about my bike was compounded by the fact that I am “advising on money matters.” Well, the marvelous thing about a democracy and the 5th Estate is that you can choose to read or not, agree or not. As for my choice, I’m siding with the opinion of another reader, Helen. “You go, girl!”
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