Hand-Built Perfection from a Renowned Builder

The Nagasawa bicycle Special NJS is this weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week”  It’s not just a bike—it’s a masterpiece, forged from decades of tradition and precision. Hand-built by the legendary Yoshiaki Nagasawa, this steel track bike showcases an era where meticulous craftsmanship ruled the track. Its sleek Nagasawa frame, restored to perfection by master painter Joe Bell, embodies both elegance and raw power.

Enduring Legacy of Japanese Keirin Bike

Yet, it’s more than a relic. Every component, from the NJS Hatta Swan Super Deluxe headset to the Sugino 75 bottom bracket, speaks to the enduring legacy of Japanese Keirin racing. As you dive deeper into this custom-built bike, you’ll discover why the Nagasawa Special NJS continues to capture hearts long after its racing days are over.

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Yoshiaki Nagasawa: A Name Synonymous with Excellence

The Nagasawa bicycle stands as a testament to his skill and dedication. In fact, Nagasawa didn’t just build bikes—he sculpted them with the precision of a master artisan. His journey, however, began in Italy, where he learned from the legendary Ugo De Rosa. Upon returning to Japan, Nagasawa became the go-to Keirin frame builder for the nation’s top Keirin cyclists. Furthermore, each frame he created carried a unique touch, thereby making every bike a masterpiece of its own.

The NJS Certification: A Symbol of Quality

What sets the Nagasawa bicycle apart is more than just its creator’s reputation. It’s the coveted NJS certification that truly elevates this Keirin racing bike. In the world of Japanese Keirin racing, NJS isn’t just a stamp of approval—it’s the gold standard. Only the finest precision cycling components and most precisely engineered designs earn this honor. The Nagasawa bicycle holds this prestigious certification, signifying that it was built not just for speed, but for unmatched reliability.

A Restoration Masterpiece: Joe Bell’s Signature Sky Blue Paint

In the early 2000s, the Nagasawa bicycle underwent a remarkable transformation. Thanks to the skilled hands of master painter Joe Bell, this vintage track bike was not just restored—it was revitalized. Bell, renowned for his precision and eye for detail, approached this restoration with the same dedication as Nagasawa himself. As a result, the Nagasawa Special now dazzles in a stunning sky blue, with sharp orange accents that give it a vibrant yet classic look. This color combination perfectly balances the classic bike aesthetics while adding a fresh twist.

Bringing New Life to a Vintage Classic

What makes Joe Bell’s work stand out is his commitment to perfection. Every step of the vintage bike restoration process was handled with care. First, the frame was carefully prepped and sanded, ensuring a flawless foundation. Then, layer by layer, Bell applied his signature paint, breathing new life into the Nagasawa frame. The sky blue and orange accents are not just colors; they are an artistic tribute to the bike’s heritage, bringing out its original character while giving it a modern edge.

Wheels and Drivetrain: Where Precision Meets Power

When it comes to wheels and drivetrain, every detail counts. On the Nagasawa bicycle, precision engineering and power go hand in hand. The NJS Suntour Superbe Pro hubs are a perfect example of this. These hubs are known for their smoothness and reliability. They spin with ease, allowing for efficient power transfer. The Nagasawa bicycle relies on this kind of Japanese craftsmanship.

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Top Notch Shimano DA Spindles

Pairing those hubs with Shimano Dura-Ace spindles takes performance up a notch. Shimano has a reputation for durability, and these spindles are no different. They provide the strength needed for a stable and reliable ride. On a Nagasawa bicycle, this combination means you can trust your bike to handle tough conditions.

Hand-Built Wheels with Unmatched Attention to Detail

The polished H+Son TB-14 rims add a touch of vintage elegance. These rims don’t just look good—they’re built for performance. They’re stiff yet responsive, giving the Nagasawa bicycle an edge when you need it. Whether you’re racing or cruising, these rims provide balance and control. This attention to detail is what separates classic bicycles from the rest.

DT Swiss Stainless Steel Spokes

DT Swiss stainless spokes are another essential part of the wheel build. They are known for their durability and strength. On a Nagasawa bicycle, they ensure that your wheels stay true over time. Performance isn’t sacrificed here; these spokes offer consistent tension and reliable handling. You can ride with confidence, knowing your wheels are built to last—one of the reasons bike collecting has embraced the Nagasawa brand.

The Power Behind the Pedal Stroke

The power behind every pedal stroke is where the Nagasawa bicycle truly shines. At the heart of it all is the NJS Suntour Superbe Pro 167.5mm crankset. It’s built to deliver smooth, consistent power with every rotation. The slightly shorter crank length offers a quicker, more responsive feel. This crankset is not just about efficiency—it’s about control. On the Nagasawa bicycle, it ensures that every ounce of energy you put in translates to speed on the road.

The Chainring and Balance

Paired with a 49-tooth chainring, this setup is all about balance. The chainring size is ideal for those who crave speed while maintaining a steady cadence. It allows you to accelerate quickly without sacrificing control. On a Nagasawa bicycle, the 49-tooth chainring complements the overall fixed gear bike setup, offering a smooth, direct connection between your legs and the road. The simplicity of the design only enhances its reliability.

The NJS Izumi Gold Chain

Let’s not forget the NJS Izumi Gold chain. It’s known for its strength and durability, making it a perfect match for the fixed gear culture of the Nagasawa bicycle. This chain runs seamlessly, reducing friction and maximizing efficiency. It holds tight to the drivetrain, giving you confidence in every pedal stroke. On a Nagasawa bicycle, the Izumi Gold chain keeps the ride smooth and secure, no matter the conditions.

Cockpit and Control: Perfecting the Ride Experience

When it comes to cockpit control, every piece plays a crucial role in the overall ride experience. The NJS Nitto Draft stainless steel track handlebars are a standout feature on the Nagasawa bicycle. These bars offer the perfect balance of strength and flexibility. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the design gives you the control you need for tight maneuvers. On a Nagasawa bicycle, these bars provide that aggressive, forward-leaning position that elite track cycling riders crave.

Nitto Precision for the Ultimate Handling

The shape of the drop bars is designed for speed and control. Whether you’re sprinting or carving through a corner, the Nitto Draft bars keep you locked in. The Nagasawa bicycle pairs perfectly with these NJS certified parts, giving riders the confidence to push the limits. The grip feels natural, and the responsiveness is instant.

The NJS Stem

Alongside the drop bars, the NJS Nitto track stem brings it all together. This stem is all about stability and precision. It’s crafted to handle the intense forces of track racing heritage, yet it feels lightweight. The Nagasawa bicycle relies on this sturdy connection between the handlebars and the frame, ensuring that every movement is met with a quick and precise response.

Saddle and Seat post: Comfort Meets Functionality

The Selle San Marco Laser saddle on the Nagasawa bicycle is a perfect example of how comfort meets style. Wrapped in black dimpled leather, it’s designed not only to look good but to perform. The dimpled surface provides just the right amount of grip, keeping you steady without sacrificing comfort. On a Nagasawa bicycle, this saddle feels like it was made for long rides, offering support where it’s needed most.

The Finishing Touches for a Comfortable Ride

Paired with this saddle is the NJS Nitto Jaguar seatpost. This piece isn’t just about function—it’s about form. The polished finish complements the classic bike aesthetics of the Nagasawa bicycle, giving it a clean, streamlined appearance. But beyond aesthetics, the Nitto Jaguar seatpost ensures that the saddle stays firmly in place, even under the most intense conditions.

Conclusion: A Vintage Icon for the Ages

In the world of cycling, few bikes capture the essence of craftsmanship in cycling like the Nagasawa bicycle. It stands as a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship, built by a master with a deep respect for the sport. Each component, from the NJS Suntour Superbe Pro crankset to the Nitto Draft drop bars, is chosen with care. Moreover, the Nagasawa bicycle doesn’t just ride well—it embodies the art of cycling.

Its NJS certification sets it apart as a truly elite machine. Moreover, every element of the Nagasawa bicycle reflects the tradition and discipline of Keirin culture. In addition, the attention to detail is unmatched, ensuring that this bike performs as well as it looks. As a result, it stands as a true vintage cycling icon.

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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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