How does a bike manage to stand out at LikeBike Monte Carlo, an international luxury bike show that's currently in its second year? Well, it helps if looks like it's rolled straight out of a Flash Gordon comic – and ECCE Cycles' Opus certainly does.
The Opus was created by Belgian architect/designer Pierre Lallemand, and was developed in partnership with Belgium's Ripley Bikes. Although a wooden-framed model is on the way, it's currently being offered in two carbon fiber versions – the Opus Cruise and Opus Sport.
Both models feature a leather Brooks saddle and handlebar grips, along with a Gates Carbon belt drive, an 11-speed Shimano Alfine rear hub transmission, and a nice retro-looking headlight. There's no word on weight.
The Cruise is a little more "rustic"-looking for lack of a better word, featuring accents in natural brown leather and chrome. While the Sport is equipped similarly to the Cruise – albeit with lower handlebars – its color scheme is pure stealthy black.
If you like what you see, you can place a pre-order through the link below, with shipping expected to begin at the end of September. Should you wish to hold out for the wooden Opus, it ought to be ready by the beginning of next year. Be aware, though – a company rep tells us that prices start at €9,500 (about US$10,798) for the two carbon models, while the wood will go for €15,000 to €18,000 ($17,049 to $20,458).
The Opus can be seen in action, in the following video.
Source: ECCE Cycles