Oh, I blast 'em with both barrels. "So far, about $2,000, but with diligence, I'm pretty sure I can get it up to $3,000!" All this with a bright smile on my face.

When they express shock, I add: "It's cheaper than a heart attack."

I ride a recumbent, so people just come up and start asking questions. They don't have a handle on recumbents, cost, comfort, ease of use, etc., so they ask. Cost is just one of the (many) questions. I don't mind, I rather enjoy those conversations.

On a related note, folk at the office often express surprise/concern that DH & I only have one car, so I (have too, poor thing) ride a bike everywhere I go. I think they think DH is such a meanie that he won't get me one, or something. Look, if I wanted a car, I'd have a car. I happen to want a nice bike. I have a nice bike. It's simple, really.