Banned and abandoned older tech??,
Pic of the bike kinda reminds me of pictures of the mouldering Soviet aircraft in various state of repair around Russia, for some reason.
It also seems to be a much more painful bike to ride, compared to TT road bikes with bullhorn handlebars. It's that unatural straight armed stretch to the grips that seem to be giving that impression.
Maybe the addition of a goofy looking, also banned "sprinter" seat with the upturned tail can complete the picture.

Chombi