I don’t see how having a motor to help you out and spending a few grand on a carbon fiber frame are much different.

Some people cycle as a sport, and races don’t let you have e-bikes. Plus, putting in all the work to climb a hill under your own power and getting to ride down is rewarding. Sure, getting a carbon fiber bike makes the work a bit lighter, but you’re still the one putting in all the work, which isn’t the case with e-bikes.

While the people in your example are failing to understand that people habe different motives for cycling, you’re doing the exact same thing here.