Pretty bicycle

I just wanted to post this pic I found surfing Specialized's site. I am partial to the silvery bicycles. I have a fantasy about "bicycle touring" but I am very leery of highways. Doesn't mean I couldn't enjoy one. I'd just need to get a THIRD or FOURTH job. Why does this thing cost 4x what my mtn bike did? Does it go 4x as fast? Hey where's the pedals?! :o

Hold the line

In 1989 Specialized Bicycle Components' new Hardrock Sport had a list price of $330. I think I paid about the same thing for mine in 1998. They don't cost much more than that today, at least as far as street prices go, and adjusted for inflation. The official 2008 list price is $420.