FOUR wheels good, but two wheels may be even better.

MV AGUSTA F4-TAMBURINI 1+1: Only 300 of the 989cc F4-Tamburini were produced and the 1+1 with a pillion seat is even more rare. It cost $95,000 when it was bought two years ago and is the most expensive motorcycle on display at BikeAsia.

You can't be faulted if you think that way after attending BikeAsia at the Singapore Expo this weekend.

The region's first international two-wheeler trade show and exhibition features over 100 exhibitors from 12 countries. They showcase the latest bicycles, motorcycles and related accessories, ranging from Italian brands Piaggio and Ducati to American brand Cannondale.

BikeAsia is supported by Eicma, which organises the International Exhibition of Bicycles and Motorcycles in Milan, the world's largest show of its kind.

Minister of State for Trade and Industry Lee Yi Shyan, who was the guest of honour at the opening ceremony on Thursday, recognised the brimming potential for bike companies in an increasingly sophisticated Asian market.

He said: 'With the many high-end bike exhibits here, two wheelers can no longer be seen as just a cheaper alternative to four.

'The two-wheeler lifestyle is a lifestyle statement and I know this is the case for Singapore.'

CANNONDALE CARBON SLICE: Munich-born triathlete Faris Al Sultan, the 2005 Hawaii Ironman winner, used this bike in his triumphant effort at this year's Langkawi Ironman. Super lightweight at 6.8kg, it is made of carbon fibre and costs about $15,000.	DUCATI DESMOSEDICI GP6: Australian motorcycle racer Casey Stoner won the MotoGP world championship last year with the GP7 and practised in Sepang, Kuala Lumpur, on this racebike. For exhibition only.	COLNAGO: This stiff bicycle was produced in a limited series to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the house of Maranello, Ferrari. For exhibition only.

BikeAsia is open to the public at the Singapore Expo Hall 3 today and tomorrow, 11am to 9pm. Tickets at $15 (with concession for Safra members) are available from www.bikeasia.org or at the door.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Apr 12, 2008.