TERRANAUT ARIEL ROAD BIKE

This weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week is a Terranaut Ariel 12 Speed Road Bicycle. In fact, it was a house brand offered at The Touring Cyclist Shops in the early 1980s. This shop was located in the St. Louis area.

House brand bicycles, often from larger manufacturers, were customized for retailers. They offered custom specifications or branding, enhancing the buying experience. It is rumored, that these bicycles were built in the same factory that produced the Fuji bikes.

During the early 1980s, lugged steel road bikes remained popular. Independent bike shops like The Touring Cyclist Shops capitalized on this trend. For this reason, they provided their own branded models, catering to a niche market.

THE TERRANAUT WAS BUILT FOR TOURING

These bikes were favored for their durability, comfort, and classic looks. It was constructed with Tange 5 steel tubing. Therefore, this bike was slightly heavier that racing models. As a result, the Terranaut was likely targeted for touring or long-distance riding. The name “Terranaut” suggests exploration or adventure, while “Ariel” may denote a specific model or variant.

Unfortunately, specific details about the Terranaut Ariel may be scarce. Enthusiasts or former employees might possess documentation.  In Fact, some vintage bicycle forums or local cycling communities in St. Louis could be valuable resources. They may shed light on this unique and potentially rare bicycle model.

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