This week’s featured “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” is the
1985 Fuji bicycle Opus 3, a bike with an intriguing history. Okazaki Kyūjirō founded the Fuji company in Japan in 1899. Initially, Fuji operated under the trade name Nichibei Shōkai. To note, this translate to: ‘Japanese-American Trading Company.’
EXCLUSIVE FUJI BICYCLE SHOP
Notably, Ken Moriya was the pioneering individual who established the first exclusive Fuji shop. Interestingly, he negotiated with Fuji America, securing a contract under the condition of exclusively retailing Fuji products. Consequently, the Fuji center emerged in Rochelle Park, New Jersey.
In contrast, the Opus 3 stood out as a fusion of high-performance and understated allure within Fuji’s model lineup. In fact, between 1983 and 1985, Ishiwata’s 019E tubing was meticulously selected for numerous elite models originating from Japan.
It’s crucial to note, that this tubing requires specific handling and experience, rather than average or routine factory specifications. Therefore, a very special skill or unique experience was imperative to ensure optimal results.
Fuji evidently hired Cherubim, a revered custom builder in Japan, to craft this exceptional fuji bicycle. Despite being ranked as a second-tier road bike model, it offers a dreamlike riding experience, highly responsive and finely tuned.
TOP END COMPONENTS
This specific Fuji bicycle boasts an exceptional paint job and a mix of premium components. For example, among these are the Suntour Superbe Pro front derailleur and a 42 x 53 tooth crankset. Its braking prowess is due to the Dia Compe Royal G.C. brake levers and calipers. A notable upgrade comes in the form of the Wing Star spokes laced to the Mavic Argent 10 tubular rims.
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