Bicycle Of The Week

Zunow Japanese bicycle
SPECIAL THANKS TO THE SPEEDBICYCLES FOR THE IMAGES CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE!

Testament to Japanese Cycling Culture

This week’s Japanese Bicycle of the Week spotlights aJapanese Steel classic bicycle design from Japan remarkable example of vintage Japanese bikes. An exceptional Zunow Z-1 Plus, frame number 2412, crafted by one of Japan’s premier artisan framebuilders, Takeru Kageyama in Osaka, Japan. Initially, this custom Japanese bicycle came with a complete set of vintage groupsets from the Shimano Dura-Ace 7402 series.

Zunow Japanese bicycle rear view

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Later on, it received select Japanese bicycle components as upgrades while still maintaining its original style. Moreover, the lugged steel frame showcases premium Tange tubing with triple-butted steel construction. In addition, its mint condition shows in its new-old-stock status. Remarkably, no one has ever ridden this masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship.

japanese bicycle seatpost lug

Finally, at 9.5kg without pedals, this JDM bike represents the pinnacle of 1980s Japanese bicycle manufacturers. Back in 1973, Akira Yoshikawa established Zunow Bicycles, joining the ranks of prestigious Osaka framebuilders.

Subsequently, the company became renowned for their handmade bicycle frames throughout the 1970s and 1980s, contributing significantly to Japanese cycling heritage. Despite their success in custom frame building, they produced very few bikes each year. Furthermore, their innovative Zunow paint techniques stood out from other makers.

zunow bottom bracket

As a result, collectors now eagerly seek these rare Japanese frames. Unfortunately, Zunow history took a turn when they stopped making frames in the mid-1990s. However, they continue to make bike parts today.

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Frame Craftsmanship: A Japanese Masterpiece

Built with meticulous attention to bicycle frame construction and frame alignment, this Zunow Z-1 Plus (one of the documented Zunow frame numbers) showcases exceptional Japanese steel frames craftsmanship with its Tange triple-butted tubing.

japanese bicycle fork crown

The pristine red paint job, achieved through proprietary frame materials and finishing techniques, is complemented by elegant chrome details on the fork crown and dropout mounts, embodying the pinnacle of Japanese bicycle manufacturing.

japanese bicycle drivetrain

Shimano’s Finest: The Dura-Ace 7402 Groupset

This never-ridden specimen showcases the finest in 7400 series components, featuring a complete Shimano Dura-Ace groupset – a hallmark of Japanese bicycle components of the era.

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japanese bicycle cassette

The drivetrain is enhanced with a period-correct Dura-Ace EX 7-speed cassette, demonstrating the cutting-edge technology of its era and the quality standards set by Japanese bicycle manufacturers.

Japanese bicycle handlebars

Premium Italian Cockpit Components

While staying true to its Japanese cycling heritage, the bike’s control center features classic Italian components. It has a Cinelli Criterium 65-40 handlebar (40cm center-to-center) paired with a Cinelli 135mm stem. These aftermarket upgrades complement the frame geometry while maintaining the bike’s high-end pedigree. They offering optimal fit and control, a testament to the versatility of Japanese steel frames.

Zunow Japanese bicycle stem

Racing-Ready Configuration

Exemplifying the precision of custom Japanese bicycles, this bike features competition-oriented frame geometry (60.5cm center-to-center seat tube and 58cm top tube). The frame materials and bicycle frame construction techniques used by Japanese frame builders ensure optimal performance.

Zunow top tube
It’s fitted with performance-focused components including an Avocet Racing II saddle and Dura-Ace 7400 seatpost. The wheelset combines Dura-Ace EX 36-hole hubs with M. Vögelin rims and tubular tires, creating a responsive 9.5kg racing machine that showcases the best of Japanese craftsmanship.

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Investment Potential and Historical Significance

As a pristine example of vintage Japanese bikes, this Zunow Z-1 Plus represents a remarkable piece of cycling history. Its 1.75 rating suggests excellent condition, making it a valuable collector’s item for enthusiasts of JDM bikes. The handmade bicycle frames from this era,  showcase the golden age of Japanese cycling culture.

This bicycle serves as a perfect example of why artisan framebuilders from Japan gained such renowned status in the cycling world.  With their meticulous attention to detail and superior build quality setting new standards in custom frame building.

Zunow Japanese bicycle ear derailleur

If you enjoyed learning about this week’s featured bicycle, don’t miss out on some cycling information you can use and enjoy! Visit our website at pacelinebikes.com Plus, check out our YouTube channel, Bicycle Restoration Man, for detailed restoration videos and showcases of our finished projects. Subscribe and join our community of bike enthusiasts!

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