Economy and new tri toys

Yeah, I know.   I got laid off in August so had to re arrange a couple late summer races and stay at a relatives rather than on site.   I didn't change any race plans since they were all paid for.

Thankfully, now re employed but have to pay off a couple debts before I can start playing again

But it's all just stuff, right?  I have to say my race "experiences" have been worth more than buying a new bike or the latest garmin.  

The only thing I really spend copious amounts of money on is my favorite hobby....triathlons. I think doing a race is a relatively cheap date.  I tend to live lean in good and bad times. We have always been savers.

I just bought myself a P2C. I plan on riding the Cervelo to the ground. Just like I am driving my Volvo to the ground.  When I spend money it is always on something very special and it is usually expensive. I don't live life on the cheap because it is way toooo short.

I'm naturally a cheap b@$t@rd but don't have a problem spending on my toys. I'll also be spending more on races this year, likely more than any other year and will also be travelling to venues for the first time, requiring motel stays, etc.  

We're fortunate in that were pretty much unaffected by the economic downturn, our investments being unaffected and we have stable, secure employment. Personal changes have taken place in our lives, however, that are siphoning some disposable income like a grandchild that we're (gladly) throwing money at, one child just starting university and  another going off next year, which will cost us in the area of $150,000 over the next 5 years, a complete kitchen reno we're just starting that will eat up 1/2 years' salary, etc.

I don't find that to be true, I know more middle income people who do tris than I do "Well Off" people.

1. Most triathletes aren't IM
2. Many of us are just refocusing our $$ so that we can continue our favorite activities

My favorite activities:

1. Triathlon
2. Friends
3. Food & Wine
4. Sex

I still have my job and I always watch what I spend so I'm not planning on any cutbacks.  Actually I'll be spending more on triathlons.  This will be my first year where I focus on them instead of just something to do between marathon training.  I don't have a good bike so I'll be getting a new one.  I'll be getting a bike trainer soon and a wetsuit as soon as I find a place to try some different ones on.  Plus more races.  

I didn't necessarily mean upper bracket, but those who can plunk down $2000, $3000... on a new bike and not really give it a second thought, people with disposable income which would qualify them, IMO, as financially well off.

I'm cheap to begin with.  I look at everything and calculate my actual use of the item. 

Having said that, I have made a lot of purchases in the past 4 months - more than I have in the past couple years.  (Mostly clothing - but also my new-to-me bike.)  I've re-acquainted myself with triathlon this past year and I've worked really hard.  I don't buy new cars, new furniture, etc.  In terms of a bike - I doubt I could ever justify the 3000$ price tag on a bike with the equipment I would want.  So I got what I wanted but paid what I felt was acceptable.

Overall I often wait until things go on sale. I also buy from places like Chainlove.com.

I'm looking at racing more next year.  However, I'm in a stable job and my car is recently paid off which generates more disposable income for racing... *smile*

I like the order of your favorite activities...  It is all about priorities!!!!  

I notice you haven't specified WHICH of your favorite activities are "pretty pricey".  I'm just saying...