In the twentieth century, unlike today with its overwhelming selection of aftermarket parts, there weren’t nearly as many options.
We dreamed of one-of-a-kind racing parts.
A single brake disk or one caliper could cost tens of thousands of yen.
Collecting pieces like a puzzle is tough.
Once it’s done, you’re too afraid to ride it. I think it’s better to have the vibe with actual practicality.
You often hear: “What if the real thing pulls up next to you?”
I think if someone on a ZRX pulls up next to a Lawson at a red light, neither one really cares.
Even if a real bike pulls up next to a Dore-mi Collection fairing kit bike, they’re coming from different stances, so neither is superior.
Subjective versus objective. Which takes priority?
I think this applies to everything, but people tend to get drawn toward the majority.
Majority rule, peer pressure… I think you should just choose what you actually want and what you truly need.
*Though going to extremes might be a problem.
Say you want to use Company A’s brakes, but you choose Company B because it has higher public recognition and fewer negative opinions.
Or your heart loves Company S’s bike, but you choose Company K’s because it has better asset value and status.
You get swept along.
In the end, you’re choosing from a limited menu.
This happens a lot, but… everyone’s the same, the only difference is the bodywork.
When it’s kitted, the price becomes affordable, but individuality decreases.
It feels like you’re choosing but actually just tracing a predetermined path.
Once you’re on that road, it’s easy—you just follow the suggested direction. You’re already far from your original individuality, existing as just another copy.
Yes, your awareness and thinking have already stopped, and you’re just vaguely riding a train toward the final station.
I don’t hate failure stories
Isn’t failure the best teacher?
Real experience that sinks into your bones—like cup noodles when you’re starving?
Cheap shortcuts that fail as expected don’t count.
But I don’t dislike the idea of “Oh, there was that approach.”
Since it’s a hobby, I think the time spent thinking about it is fun too.
In the end…
Status and asset value come as bonuses afterward; some people might pursue them from the start.
Setting aside the money, I think you should get something you’re most satisfied with and won’t regret.
If it were that easy, we wouldn’t struggle, right?
It’s mostly a matter of your own heart.
