The Speculation can end! I e-mailed Euro-Asia Imports and got this response:

"Thank you for your message / inquiry. Yes, this is one of our frames and actually quite rare. This is one of only four Bare Knuckle frames that had cable guides, within this small production there was also a White Bare Knuckle ( only one made ). These four frames were custom made made for EAI's 2004 Interbike show booth. We hope that you enjoy your new frame! Very best regards, Dave Lundegard / Euro-Asia Imports "

So THAT's it, it's an early production prototype. Sweet!

Thanks for asking!