When it comes to looking stylish on two wheels, it's not just about the cyclist looking good - the machine should also have a touch of style to it too. So when I was invited to the the launch party for the Gropes online shop, I had to be there to check out the gorgeous Leather Handlebar Grips & finally meet the man behind them.
Akira Chatani (Nonusual) held the "Gropes and Friends" gathering at the beautiful Family Tree Boutique in Exmouth Market. Those in attendance included Mechanical Alchemist and tokyobike, who made a stunning bespoke bicycle exclusively for the night.
The main event of the evening was the chance to win a special Golden Gropes Trophy.
Made of Handlebars covered in golden Gropes Leather, this was certainly an original piece for any cycle enthusiasts wall: like hunting down the ultimate Gropes - reminiscent of prized mounted Stag-Horns! I entered the draw for these but didn't win - gutted, as I would have put these on my Bedroom / Workspace Door!
As well as there being fabulous bike accessories for me to check out, there were some beautiful machines and stylish cyclists on view too...
As soon as I saw him, I had to get a shot! Photographer Yu Fujiwara arrived to the event on his Purple tokyobike single speed bike. Now, you know that I love my Pashley but I have to pay the tokyobike pop-up shop a visit when I'm in the area later this week for my tattoo consultation...
It was a brilliant evening, with the chance to meet like minded fashion & cycling enthusiasts, and of course to meet Akira and witness his passion for what he does so well.
My set of photos from the evening can be viewed here - and make sure you check out the Gropes Online Shop too.
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