@bpsmith to answer your question yes I think more than 2 bikes can be justified though it does depend on the type(s) of riding one does. I can’t bear the thought of disposing of my bikes and have five. I can justify three easily and possibly the fourth, the order is in terms of “need.” The year is the purchase date.
1. Cervelo C3 summer bike (2017) - self explanatory.
2. Bespoke carbon tourer (2014) I like to tour and this bike was designed for two purposes - touring obviously but also fast for club rides as my previous summer bike had become too slow for my needs. Also use this as an “autumn” bike when too wet for summer bike but no salt, crap etc. on roads.
3. Dolan Dual (2011) originally a summer bike now used in deep winter when salt, crap is around. In terms of the group I ride with the bike is slow and I work VERY hard to keep up
4. Hybrid (2016). I cant recall the brand. It’s a nice £400 hybrid a friend let me have for £75. The plan was to turn it in to my shopping bike now I’ve retired. As my wife mentioned last week this hasn’t happened yet.
5. Monoc (2004) I never ride this bike. At the time she represented a big step up in my riding. I’m too fond of this bike and the others to consider getting rid.
Could I justify more? No. Will I buy more? Probably. I’m already considering buying a specific winter bike in 2018. Something to give me the speed and climbing I need to stay easily with the group. I do find the bike makes a difference. If I had the money I would probably buy more just for the pleasure of ownership.
I maintain each bike meticulously. The Monoc and Dolan are showing signs of use, chips and scuffs but this is inevitable at 13 and 8 years old respectively. Mechanically they are very sound. The Cervelo and tourer look like new. All four are spotlessly clean and polished. Maintenance and cleaning are important to me to extend the bike’s life and performance along with showing my pride in my bikes.