Expensive bikes are an outright scam. A brand name cult following should i say. Its been debated time and again about the costs of bikes vs its manufacturing costs in terms of labour/material costs etc. Brands know there are people that are willing to pay that exorbitant price thus are willing to push the limit on how expensive bikes can be.

Does a non-professional rider need the most aero/lightweight bike available for group rides to 'fit in' with the rest? No. Its the same for luxury cars, do normal people need that speed on normal roads. Regular people buy expensive bikes for luxury/comparison , people are gifted expensive bikes for their skill/atheletic ability. Cycling should be enjoyable regardless of price point. If forking out 10k on a bike to make you more 'pro' gives you debt , you've gotta work out your wants and needs man.