Classic Japanese Bicycles

This weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” is a Zunow Z1. When it comes to finding the best Japanese bike, the Zunow Z1 stands out as a true masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, you can’t help but admire the look and craftmanship of this beautiful bicycle. all thanks to the cutting-edge design and craftsmanship of the Zunow Z1.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into what makes the Zunow Z1 the best Japanese bike on the market, exploring its features, performance, and the sheer joy it brings to every ride. So, hop on and let’s take a closer look at this incredible machine!

The Origins of Zunow: Crafting the Best Japanese Bike

The story of Zunow began in mid-20th century Japan. In 1965, Mr. Takeru Kageyama, a passionate cyclist and skilled craftsman, founded Zunow Cycles in Uozu, Toyama Prefecture. Driven by his love for cycling and dedication to quality, Kageyama aimed to create bicycles with top-notch performance, comfort, and exceptional aesthetics. Thus, Zunow emerged as a name synonymous with the best Japanese bike, blending quality and beauty seamlessly.

Furthermore, what sets the Zunow Z1 apart is its exquisite paint job and meticulous craftsmanship. Each frame is hand-painted, showcasing vibrant colors and intricate designs that truly make it a work of art. The attention to detail is impeccable, with smooth welds and a flawless finish that highlights the bike’s elegance.

Additionally, the craftsmanship extends beyond aesthetics; the frame is built for durability and performance, ensuring a ride that is both smooth and responsive. Consequently, the Zunow Z1 isn’t just a bike; it’s a testament to the dedication and skill that define the best Japanese bike.

The Iconic Campagnolo C-Record Brake: A Design Inspired by the Greek Delta

Though their Italian creators never called them the Delta brake, the name stuck due to their resemblance to the Greek letter Delta (Δ). Officially known as the Campagnolo C-Record brake, they were introduced in 1984 and featured in every Campagnolo catalogue from 1985 to 1992. Crafted from aluminum and steel, these brakes were a visual delight, with a faceplate proudly displaying the Campagnolo logo.

At a staggering £300, they were incredibly expensive for the time, surpassing even the cost of Super Record and often seen on professional tour bikes. Over the next eight years, Campagnolo continuously improved these brakes, evolving the three-pivot parallelogram design to a five-pivot configuration.

They also released a version for a lower groupset, known as the Croce d’Aune. This commitment to innovation and quality is what makes Campagnolo a key player in the world of the best Japanese bike components.

Timeless Elegance: The Perfect Crankset for the Best Japanese Bike

This beautiful crankset, or chainwheel set, boasts clean and classic lines with a stunning satin silver anodized finish. However, it’s worth noting that, over time, the anodizing can wear off due to shoe rub. Despite this minor drawback, its timeless design makes it a perfect fit for the best Japanese bike, adding both elegance and performance.

Evolution of Excellence: The Super Record Rear Derailleur

The Super Record groupset featured various versions of the rear derailleur until the late 1980s.  It was eventually replaced by the C-Record. Additionally, a special Campagnolo 50th anniversary edition of this derailleur was released. The second version of the Super Record derailleur, launched in 1978, is easily recognizable by its printed black Campagnolo branding.

This iteration included several design enhancements. For instance, a new cage design improved shifting on larger rear cogs, accommodating up to a 28-tooth cog. Moreover, a redesigned top pivot allowed the derailleur to swing further forward, providing more chain wrap on the smaller cogs. These advancements make it an ideal choice for the best Japanese bike, ensuring superior performance and reliability.

The Legendary Selle Italia Turbo Saddle: A Perfect Match for the Best Japanese Bike

This Zunow bike has the legendary Selle Italia Turbo saddle. When it was first released, it made waves as the first fully anatomic saddle. Expertly designed by Selle Italia, the Turbo rapidly gained fame after its introduction in 1980, thanks to its exceptional comfort.

Moreover, this saddle is handcrafted in Italy, ensuring top-notch quality and attention to detail. Furthermore, the Turbo is available in two classic colors: black and white. With its innovative design and superior comfort, the Turbo saddle is an ideal choice for the best Japanese bike. It offers both style and performance.

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This weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” is vintage Nishiki Tri-A. Nishiki’s origins trace back to West Coast Cycle, established by Leo Cohen Sr. and RosaBelle Cohen, who were former partners at Wheel Goods Corporation in Minneapolis. Transitioning to Los Angeles in 1946, they acquired an established retail bicycle outlet named Atlas Cycle.

Eventually, they rebranded the company as Playrite Bicycle Supply Co. Subsequently, in the late 1950s, the Cohens ventured into bicycle distribution, parts, and accessories. Venturing into the different aspects of the bicycle industry, led them to create the West Coast Cycle Supply Company. This expansion signaled their commitment to the burgeoning cycling market, laying the groundwork for the future success of these vintage Nishiki bicycles.

Howie Cohen, who took control of the company from his parents, initially placed an order for 570 bikes with Kawamura. He marketed these bikes under the American Eagle brand. This marked the inception of their successful venture, with tens of thousands of American Eagle bicycles sold by WCC.

This weeks bike is in unrestored condition. It was originally specced out with Shimano’s 600 groupset. It appears that the group set was kept intact. The 600 components were the forerunner of the Ultegra groupset. Likewise, the Araya 700c bronze wheels were original as well.

The paint is in pretty good condition with only a few chips here and there. The frame was made from Tange 1 tubing. Tange was hugh in Japan and most of the bikes of this time were made with this tubing.

MANY VINTAGE NISHIKI BICYCLE USED TANGE TUBING

Tange embarked on its journey in 1920 as Tange Iron Works, established by Yosujirou Tange, initially specializing in the production of bicycle forks. Over the years, the company expanded its operations and product offerings.

Their original tube was branded as Champion and was assigned numbers according to the weight. Champion 1 was the lightest and every following number, 2,3,4 was heavier. They eventually called in Tange 1, Tange 2 and so forth.

The Nishiki Tri-A competed with the Centurion Ironman models. Consequently, these two models competed with one another from the late 1980s and early 1990s. While they share similarities in their target demographic and intended use, there are notable differences between the two.

In terms of design, both bikes feature aerodynamic frames optimized for speed and efficiency. However, the Nishiki Tri-A tends to have a more aggressive and race-oriented geometry, prioritizing performance over comfort.

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This weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” is the Bridgestone X0- Renowned for its innovative bicycle designs, the X0-1 left an indelible mark on the cycling world with its diverse lineup tailored for the US market. Amidst this array of options, one particular model stood out as a testament to Grant Petersen’s unique vision of bicycle design: the XO-1. Even nearly three decades after Bridgestone ceased its operations in the US, the XO-1 continues to command a fervent following, earning its title as the quintessential “Cult Bike.”

However, the pièce de résistance, and perhaps the most polarizing aspect of the XO-1, was its distinctive, controversial mustache handlebar crafted by Nitto. Another Grant Peterson diversion from the norm.

MUSTACHE HANDLEBARS INSPIRED BY JAPANESE CULTURE

Inspired by Japanese bike culture, where schools often prohibited drop bars, the mustache bar of the XO-1 combined elements of flat and drop bars. It offered a sporty yet controlled ride suitable for adult American hands. Despite its innovative design, it exuded a retro charm that divided opinion. The Bridgestone enthusiasts embracing its novelty while the cycling press remained skeptical.

BRIDGESTONE X0-1: CRITICS NOT TOTALLY IMPRESSED

The critics, notably in Bicycling Magazine’s April 1992 review, focused on the handlebars, labeling them cool but impractical. Obviously, this overshadowing the bike’s other merits. The XO-1’s classification as a hybrid further puzzled reviewers and retailers. It’s unique design defied categorization, embodying a versatility that allowed owners to shape its identity according to their preferences. Of course, this is what Mr. Peterson intended all along.

Debuting in 1992, the XO-1 epitomized versatility, aiming to be the quintessential “do anything” bike capable of effortlessly transitioning between road and trail terrains. Most of all, it embodied the essence of a hybrid bike.  It definitely sidestepped the conventional label.  Sporting a road bike frame and geometry coupled with 26″ wheels.  Furthermore, the XO-1 boasted slick road tires while accommodating mountain bike tires of up to 1.6″ width.

Consequently, Grant Peterson left Bridgestone and started Rivendell Bicycle Works. Rivendell is renowned for crafting timeless bicycles that prioritize comfort, durability, and versatility over high-tech gadgetry. With a commitment to traditional craftsmanship and a philosophy rooted in the joy of cycling.

Three decades since its inception, the XO-1 continues to occupy a revered status in the cycling community.  Revered for its timeless design and unwavering reliability.  Equally important, Its enduring legacy serves as a testament to Bridgestone’s pioneering spirit and Petersen’s visionary approach to bicycle craftsmanship.

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