Fat people love buying expensive gear because it makes them feel like a real cyclist without all the effort, and I'm pretty sure bike shop employees know this.  Gotta have the $600 Louis Garneau kits that get used on Sunday morning for 5 miles.  And you NEED a $200 aero helmet! I mean, I have some fancy gear myself, but most of my stuff has has been used and abused, so it looks a bit shitty.  I always save my nice stuff for touring days, where this thing wouldn't stand a chance.