Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2011

Next time you see a tricked-out pair of neon wheels zip past you on the street, resist the impulse to lash out at “those punk street racers.” Because this time, it might just be an ordinary salaryman cycling home from work. The Monkey Light from boutique bike-accessory outfit MonkeyLectric features 32 full-color LEDs that attach to almost any wheel, from BMX racers to mama-chari. Nine separate illumination patterns include “zig-zag,” “sleep” and “teleportation,” and you can also play with speed, color and other settings for up to 30 combinations. Bike lamps are so last decade.

¥5,980. See www.monkeylectric. com for full list of distributors (Japan/overseas). Also available through www.sirobako.com.