Patience may be Rewarded

As my road bike -- a Cannondale R400 -- approaches its 20th birthday, I've begun giving thought to updating my ride.  The notions of a softer ride -- the 'Dale's all aluminum frame is unrelentingly stiff -- and integrated break-shifters beckons.  Working to my advantage is the economy. Bike sales have slowed to a crawl:

"The days of selling $4,000 to $6,000 bikes slowed down this summer," noted Trek presidentJohn Burke last week at the company's dealer gathering called Trek World. America's biggest bike company has lowered the price of its entry-level road model to $600 for 2010 (down from $900). For enthusiasts, its Madone 5.1, which features the Wisconsin-made OCLV black carbon frame and can be fully customized down to the paint job, starts at $3,099. 

 Interestingly,

Trek's main focus for 2010 will be on urban, city and commuter bicycles. Key will be the introduction of its new Ride+ line of electric-assist bikes. Trek plans to offer 3 e-bike models in the U.S. after partnering with BionX on the proprietary drive system, which consists of a hub motor and lithium ion battery. (Source:Bicycle Retailer and Industry News)

I'll pass on the BionX, thank you.  I need and crave the exercise.

However, this does have me wondering:  Will miniaturized electric motors, secreted aboard racing bikes, become the equivalent of yesterday's doping scandals?