i wish bike companies would make more basic models aimed at the realistic needs of the urban rider, e.g., with eyelets/bosses for racks/water bottles/brakes; it is a shame it seems like schwinn/raleigh are aiming for the trend, rather than (stylish) practicality. i sigh as i see all those bikes (and the people who buy them) with full-suspension, disc brakes, 27 gears, etc., that are extraneous details for most people (as well as often low-quality).

a good friend here, who is very involved in the local cycling scene, will be opening his own repair shop told me that he will advertise/target niche high-end bikes (because of the profit margin vs. work), but would *much* rather be able to survive working on 'mamachari' bikes (the 'basket bikes' ubiquitous in japan), because he sees them as "a peoples bike", except that it would require a significant amount more work (as well, people often see their mamacharis as disposable, given the cheap prices...~$100-200...and, thus, do not worry much about repairs).

cavernmech, i am curious about your thoughts on the 'ideals' of operating a bike/repair shop in the current market back home?