I have an eight year old $600 comfort/hybrid 21 speed bike. It is heavy and slow, and on smooth bike paths, I've been passed by kids on beach cruisers....but it is rugged as hell and can take some dirt trails and other uneven terrain...best I've done on long rides (35-40 miles) is average 12 mph.
I considered getting a pure road bike and looked at some that were 10-15 lbs lighter than my bike. Got about 15-16mph on a test ride with a loaner, but didn't want to pay $1.2 to $2 K for a bike, then spend money on riding clothes (looked like a seal - harbor, not Navy - when I put on some tights), clipless pedals and riding shoes, aero helmet, etc....
so for me at least, $2 K is too much for a bike...and my income is less now, on retirement, then it was when I was shopping for a faster bike...