Cycle Mode International

Like a junkie in search of a long-needed fix, I ventured out to the Cycle Mode International show yesterday. It took me an hour and a half to get there on four different trains, but it was satisfying. The show wasn't huge, but there were a few big names there showcasing their 2007 offerings (Trek, Giant, Specialized, etc.). Here are a few pictures of a bike that was on display at the Colnago booth. I forgot how eccentric these manufacturers can get when they make display bikes for the trade-show circuit (from the Swarovski crystal encrusted Fetish Cycle bike to the pink fur cover Schwinn Panther... these bikes are definitely just for show).
This is a custom, hand-painted bike at the Colnago booth. It was displayed front and center, and it was apparently available to any customer with US$15,120 burning a hole in their pocket. Although the bike sure was pretty, I can think of tons of better ways to spend that money!

Here is a close-up of the painting near/on the head tube. Ohh... butterflies, this is definitely a chick bike.

Wonder what the rims will look like after going out for a spin? Maybe they should have considered putting a disc brake on, so as not to destroy the rim paint job?

On a side note, while taking the train to the show, I was reminded that I am living on an island nation. Living on the western side of Tokyo (and having lived in the land-locked Midwest), I tend to forget that the ocean is nearby. From the train, I could see some of the cargo ships in the Tokyo Bay. I should try to visit the coast soon.