As far as the Japanese economy/auctions thing goes, the buyers currently seem much affected by the ever progressively worse slowdown. The sellers however, have continued to put very high starting prices on their bikes being offered. Currrently, there are some very desirable bikes available over here, starting at the close to $3000 range, and on up to $5000. Even though they repeat the offering over and over after the auction time limit expires, nobody is buying at these prices. People have become more disciplined in not getting financially hooked up into the strong appeal that these beautiful machines have. I'd say that this is somewhat less the case when it applies to the more modern "in fashion" oriented equipment.
Dennis Young Hotaka Japan
> I think you can attribute it to a slow economy, both in the US and Japan.
> Less disposable income, and those who have it are less secure in continuing
> to have it. I understand classic automobile prices have been going through
> a similar downturn. When this happens, even those with plenty of money to
> buy the goods reevaluate what constitutes a "good deal" and demand lower
> prices. I know I've become less willing to pay what is asked, as I figure a
> better deal will come along. I've bought several nice used frames,
> wheelsets, and even complete bikes recently for around $100. Good time to
> be a buyer if you have any room left in the garage.