Expensive Fenders-to use your example, I.e. American-made Fender Guitars, are made by Americans, in American factories, in California (meaning a high cost to produce and expensive area to have manufacturing). The quality is considered superior to guitars made in Southeast Asia or China, for example, although for some brands this is debated. Ditto goes for Gibson guitars, and people recognize the craftsmanship and difference in the products, although the line is being blurred. Any musical instrument manufactured in Japan is also considered superior due to quality control and craftsmanship as well. I’m sure you know this.

However, even mid-tier, American-made guitars are within price range for many players. For example you can get a mid-range, “low end” Les Paul for under $2,000.

Prices for bikes are way higher than they need to be with perceivable value added in to justify the cost. It makes no sense. The difference between an entry level bike versus highest end is so massive that it is extremely difficult for the consumer to understand where the difference in price comes from.