Once prices of consumer goods go up they tend to stay up.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27269544/
I have a bit of an inside track since I am pretty friendly with a few product managers. They are working on 010' stuff now and without question they seem to think that 010' stuff might end up being the same or very slightly less $ than 09' gear.
The bigger long term issue is that Shimano has not had major price increases in 10 years. This year they bumped prices by 20-30%. They will NOT be lowering prices. SRAM however is not up much this year as they have not needed to make as big a correction. All this leads to SRAM growing (in my eyes) a good clip through 09'...
Another issue to ponder is simple supply and demand. Everyone is running scared. With that in mind suppliers are apt to hold less stock above pre-book buy in. SO don't be surprised if you can't find the bike you want this year at all. Buy early and shop hard. The market is very competitive and most everyone is making very good bikes.
A good example that hits home for me is Niner. They decided NOT to sell complete bikes for 09'. They are only doing frames this year. They are just afraid of the buy in.
Locally we will loose a few more shops in 09'. Fixed expenses are all on the rise and consumer confidence is floundering. This is where you can really make a difference. Find a local shop and give them a shot with every purchase you are considering making. I for one would much rather match or even beat a online shop than loose business. Many times your local guy can combine orders to grant you free shipping. The guidance a local shop can give will add something to the purchase. The saying goes.. " it is not what you paid but what it cost" comes to mind..
and back to rotor.. They are made in Spain which has got to be crazy more pricey that what they would cost if made in Taiwan.