Competitive Cyclist Sale
1988 Remington NJS Bicycle
The Historical Significance
A 1988 Remington NJS bicycle is this weeks “Japanese
Bicycle of the Week. In 1988, a legendary NJS bicycle took shape. Master frame builder Mr. Kasuga crafted this Remington frame specifically for Keirin racing champion Seiji Yabata. Consequently, this bike represents more than just steel and components.
Furthermore, it embodies the golden era of Japanese track cycling. Moreover, Mr. Kasuga, who sadly passed away in 2003, left behind a legacy of exceptional frame building craftsmanship. Additionally, this NJS bicycle carries the weight of racing history through every weld and joint.
The frame’s geometry follows strict NJS regulations, featuring steep angles and minimal clearances optimized for velodrome racing. Notably, Yabata’s racing career influenced specific frame dimensions, including a 55cm top tube and 74-degree head tube angle.
Master Craftsmanship Details
The frame showcases remarkable attention to detail. First, the 3Rensho Super End Fork Tips demonstrate superior engineering through their precise filing and chrome plating. Meanwhile, the Nagasawa Lugs display artistic flourishes typical of high-end racing frames.
Additionally, the Remington Dropouts ensure precise wheel alignment with their 7mm thickness and forward-facing design. Therefore, these elements combine to create a track bike of exceptional quality. Furthermore, each component reflects the meticulous standards of NJS certification.
The frame material consists of Kaisei 019 tubing, heat-treated and butted specifically for sprint racing. Subsequently, the bottom bracket shell features precise threading at 1.37″ x 24T JIS standard. Moreover, the seat tube maintains a 27.2mm internal diameter, typical of high-end NJS frames of this era. As a result, this NJS bicycle stands as a testament to Japanese bicycle manufacturing excellence.
The Evolution to Urban Riding
Over time, this NJS bicycle adapted to modern city use. Initially, the conversion began with the handlebars. Subsequently, the original Nitto B123AA gave way to a more comfortable B220AAF model, offering a 40cm width and ergonomic drops.
Meanwhile, the saddle evolved from an Ariake Jaguar to a Kashimax Aero, providing better support for upright riding positions. Furthermore, the most significant change involved the drivetrain. Consequently, the original Shimano Dura-Ace track cog transformed into a practical 16T Dicta freewheel setup.
Daylight-bright USB bike lights for ultimate road safety
The gear ratio shifted from a steep 48×15 track combination to a more street-friendly 48×16. Therefore, these modifications made the bike more suitable for street riding. The addition of Dia-Compe BRS 101 brakes introduced stopping power while maintaining period correctness. Additionally, the MKS chain tensioners ensure proper chain tension despite the horizontal dropouts.
Component Breakdown
The current build balances tradition with practicality. First, the Sugino Mighty crankset maintains its original NJS certification with its 170mm arms and 48T chainring. Meanwhile, the Hatta Swan Super Deluxe headset ensures smooth steering through its 32mm race diameter and high-polish steel bearings.
Additionally, the Kyokuto Pro Ace pedals offer reliable power transfer with their wide platform and precision bearings. Furthermore, the wheelset features authentic Ayara 16B rims, measuring 36mm in height and 22mm in width.
Moreover, these pair perfectly with Hoshi Double-butted Racing Spokes and Shimano Dura-Ace BIA hubs, both maintaining their NJS certification. The Challenge Vulcano Pro Series tires provide modern 700x23c performance while respecting the bike’s racing heritage. The Sugino Mighty seatpost features a one-bolt adjustment mechanism typical of NJS components.
Contemporary Revival
Local expertise brought this NJS bicycle back to life. First, Live to Ride Bike Shop began the restoration process with a complete frame inspection and alignment check. Subsequently, LPR Bicycle Shop in Bangkok completed the transformation through careful component selection and assembly. Meanwhile, they preserved the frame’s original character by maintaining its distinctive blue-green paint and chrome details.
Furthermore, their work balanced vintage bicycle authenticity with modern rideability through careful component choices. The restoration process included repacking all bearings with high-grade lubricants and installing new seals throughout. The mechanics performed precise facing operations on the bottom bracket shell and head tube to ensure perfect alignment.
Consequently, this NJS bicycle now serves as both a practical machine and a preserved piece of cycling history. The wheelbuilding process involved careful spoke tension balancing to achieve less than 0.5mm of runout. Therefore, it continues to tell the story of Japanese track racing excellence while adapting to contemporary urban use.
This NJS bicycle bridges two worlds. Moreover, it connects racing heritage with modern street use. Furthermore, it preserves the craftsmanship of a master framebuilder. Finally, it demonstrates how classic racing machines can evolve while maintaining their soul. Therefore, this Reminton frame stands as a rolling testament to cycling history and adaptation.
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