Considering their bikes start at $15K, "everyone" is unlikely to be able to afford it.

I love to buy local, and I love to cycle, but what I can afford is $2K. Which is why I'm still riding the same Kestrel (full carbon w/ SRAM Force drivetrain) I got on Craigslist 8 years ago for $700, and on which I've since replaced a number of components, but have still spent < $2K overall. A comparable bike new these days would be at least $5K.

It is fine to ride a cheaper / older bike but if you are really into it, you will tend to spend more (just like other sports / hobbies). Mountain bikes have come a very long way in the past 5-10 years.

Yeah I was being a bit sarcastic.

Those are cool bikes for sure - I used to work right next door - but I can't afford that.

I don't like carbon but I tend to prefer supporting USA and Taiwanese manufacturers. I'd love to see more domestic fabrication.

I was/am going to buy an Otso titanium frame, but they're made in Taiwan. Depending on the final price adjustment due to tariffs, it might actually be more cost effective for me to buy a Moots (made in America) frame to build.