3Rensho Super Record

Introduction: A Rare Gem of Cycling History

This 3Rensho Super Record is this week’s “Japanese Bicycle of the Week.” In the world of classic bicycles, few names evoke as much admiration as this near-mint bicycle. This model is not just any vintage bike; it stands as a crown jewel in an already illustrious lineup, embodying the rich 3Rensho history.

What makes this particular bike truly special is its history as a show bike. It once took center stage at Yellow Jersey, captivating onlookers with its pristine condition and unmatched cycling craftsmanship.

This bike is more than just visually stunning—it’s virtually untouched by time. With less than 200 miles on it, this 3Rensho remains in almost new condition, a rarity among collectible bicycles.

The original paint and decals are perfectly preserved, adding to its unique allure. There’s something magical about a bike that has stood the test of time without losing an ounce of its original charm, making it a true showpiece in the classic bike market.

This isn’t a mass-produced model. It’s a one-off custom, meticulously crafted to perfection, featuring a handmade bicycle frame that is a testament to the era’s master frame builders.

The frame of this Super Record combines elements from the SR Export model with unique features like fastback stays and under bottom bracket cable guides. The finely filed lugs are a testament to the masterful craftsmanship that defines 3Rensho.

The frame number, 9380086, adds another layer of intrigue. While it doesn’t fully reveal its secrets, it hints at a rich history waiting to be uncovered by a fortunate owner, adding to its collectible bike value.

ISHIWATA TUBING PAIRED WITH TANGE DROPOUTS

This bike isn’t just about the frame. The fully chromed fork with a semi-sloping crown and Tange steerer is another nod to its pedigree. The Shimano fork ends and Tange rear dropouts complement the Ishiwata lugged steel tubing, creating a frame that’s both beautiful and functional. It’s a bike built to last, yet one that’s been preserved as a rare bicycle model.

The Dura Ace 8-speed group, predominantly from the 7400 series with a few 7700 components, ensures that this bike isn’t just a looker but a high performer as well.

The brand-new San Marco Regal perforated leather saddle adds a touch of luxury, while the candy blue paint over a metallic base gives the bike an almost ethereal glow. Pictures can’t do justice to the depth and shine of this paintwork—it has to be seen in person to be truly appreciated.

The Origins of 3Rensho: A Legacy of Japanese Craftsmanship

The story of the 3Rensho Super Record begins with a visionary named Yoshi Konno, a figure revered among cycling enthusiasts.

In the early 1970s, Konno set out to create something extraordinary. He wasn’t interested in just building bicycles; he wanted to craft masterpieces. This drive led to the birth of 3Rensho, a brand that quickly became synonymous with excellence in the cycling world.

Konno’s journey started with Cherubim Cycles, a company he co-founded with his brother Hitoshi in 1973. But Yoshi’s ambitions stretched further. He wanted to build bikes that would not only perform at the highest levels but also stand as works of art.

So, he established 3Rensho, which translates to “three victories.” This name pays homage to a rare feat in Japanese Keirin racing—winning three consecutive races in qualifiers, semi-finals, and finals.

3Rensho quickly became a beacon of quality in the competitive world of handmade bicycles. Konno’s attention to detail and insistence on perfection attracted some of Japan’s finest frame builders. Among them were legends like Yamaguchi and Masahiko Makino, who honed their skills under Konno’s watchful eye.

These artisans were not just building bikes; they were crafting legacies. Their work with 3Rensho set a new standard, placing them on par with European giants like Cino Cinelli and Ugo De Rosa.

One-of-a-Kind Custom Build: A Closer Look at the Frame

The 3Rensho Super Record in question isn’t just any bike; it’s a custom-built masterpiece, a shining example of 1980s racing bikes that continues to capture the imagination of vintage bike preservation enthusiasts.

Every detail of this frame speaks to the exceptional craftsmanship that 3Rensho is renowned for. Let’s dive into what makes this particular Super Record truly one-of-a-kind.

First up are the fastback stays. Unlike the more common seat stay designs, these fastback stays are seamlessly integrated into the frame, giving it a sleek, almost aerodynamic appearance.

They hug the frame closely, reducing visual clutter and adding to the overall elegance of the bike. It’s a subtle detail, but one that truly sets this bike apart from others in its class.

BB Cable Guides

Then there are the under bottom bracket (BB) cable guides. This feature wasn’t widely used on 3Rensho frames until after 1987, making this particular model something of a rarity. These cable guides are not just functional; they’re a nod to the forward-thinking design ethos of 3Rensho.

By routing the cables under the bottom bracket, the bike maintains a cleaner look while also protecting the cables from dirt and debris. It’s a small, yet significant touch that showcases the innovative spirit behind the 3Rensho Super Record.

But perhaps the most striking feature of this custom build is the finely filed lugs. Lugs, for those who might not know, are the joints that connect the different tubes of the frame. On this bike, they’re not just functional; they’re works of art.

Impeccable Lug Work

Each lug has been meticulously filed and shaped, creating smooth transitions between the tubes and enhancing the overall aesthetic. These lugs aren’t just about looks, though—they also contribute to the bike’s structural integrity, ensuring that it rides as beautifully as it looks.

The fork on this Super Record is another standout element. Borrowed from the SR Export model, it features a semi-sloping crown and is fully chromed, adding a touch of brilliance to the bike’s appearance.

The Tange steerer and Shimano fork ends are indicative of the high-quality components used throughout the build. This isn’t just a fork; it’s a statement.

THE LIGHTWEIGHT ISHIWATA TUBING

The rear dropouts, also from Tange, are equally impressive. They’re robust yet elegant, designed to provide a secure connection while maintaining the bike’s overall aesthetic harmony.

Paired with the Ishiwata lugged steel tubing, these dropouts contribute to a frame that’s not only beautiful but also incredibly strong and responsive.

Component Excellence: The Dura Ace 8-Speed Group

This bicycle isn’t just about stunning craftsmanship; it’s also a marvel of componentry. At its heart lies the Dura Ace 8-speed group, a blend of precision and reliability. This bike isn’t just made to be admired—it’s made to be ridden, and ridden hard, fitting perfectly into the collection of any serious cycling enthusiast.

The Dura Ace 7400 series is legendary. It was Shimano’s statement to the world that they could compete with, and even surpass, the best in the business. On this Super Record, the 7400 series forms the backbone of the drivetrain.

Dura Ace RD-7402

The rear derailleur, a Dura Ace RD-7402, is a piece of engineering brilliance. It’s smooth, precise, and built to last. Paired with the Dura Ace FD-7400 front derailleur, shifting is crisp and reliable, whether you’re climbing steep hills or sprinting on flat roads.

The shifters, Dura Ace ST-7403, offer a tactile connection to the bike. These are no ordinary shifters—they’re a direct link to the bike’s soul. You feel every shift, every gear change, with a satisfying click that resonates with the quality of the build.

The brake set, also from the 7403 series, provides powerful stopping power with a finesse that inspires confidence. These components don’t just perform—they elevate the entire riding experience.

But the 3Rensho Super Record doesn’t stop at the 7400 series. It also incorporates elements from the 7700 series, pushing the bike into a realm of modern performance.

The Dura Ace 7700 hubs are a prime example. Smooth and fast, they keep the wheels spinning effortlessly, allowing you to focus on the ride. Paired with Mavic Open Pro SUP rims, these hubs are ready for anything the road throws at you.

Even the pedals are Dura Ace 7700, ensuring that every aspect of your interaction with the bike is top-tier. It’s a blend of old and new, classic and contemporary, that makes this bike truly special.

The crankset, a Dura Ace FC-7402 with 53/39t chainrings, offers the perfect balance of strength and efficiency. The 175mm crank arms provide excellent leverage, helping you power through tough climbs and accelerate with ease.

And let’s not forget the Dura Ace SP-7410 seatpost, which holds the San Marco Regal saddle in place with rock-solid stability.

Conclusion: Why the 3Rensho Super Record is a Timeless Classic

The Super Record isn’t just a bike; it’s a masterclass in design, engineering, and craftsmanship. From the fastback stays and finely filed lugs to the under bottom bracket cable guides, every detail of this custom build speaks to a level of artistry that’s rare in today’s world.

It’s a bike that captures the essence of what makes 3Rensho legendary—innovation, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Showroom Condition

This particular bicycle stands out not only for its unique features but also for its near-mint condition. With less than 200 miles on it, this bike has been preserved in a state that’s almost unheard of for a machine of its age. The original paint, decals, and components are a testament to the care it has received and the timeless quality of its construction.

Owning a 3Rensho Super Record is more than just owning a piece of cycling history—it’s owning a piece of art, a symbol of a bygone era where craftsmanship reigned supreme.

Yoshi Konno’s Vision

This bike is a living legacy of Yoshi Konno’s vision, a testament to the enduring appeal of 3Rensho, and a timeless classic that will continue to inspire and captivate for generations to come. Whether as a collectible or a rideable showpiece, it is a rare treasure in the world of classic road bikes.

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