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Testament to Japanese Cycling Culture
This week’s Japanese Bicycle of the Week spotlights a
remarkable example of vintage Japanese bikes. An exceptional Zunow Z-1 Plus, frame number 2412, crafted by one of Japan’s premier artisan framebuilders, Takeru Kageyama in Osaka, Japan. Initially, this custom Japanese bicycle came with a complete set of vintage groupsets from the Shimano Dura-Ace 7402 series.
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Later on, it received select Japanese bicycle components as upgrades while still maintaining its original style. Moreover, the lugged steel frame showcases premium Tange tubing with triple-butted steel construction. In addition, its mint condition shows in its new-old-stock status. Remarkably, no one has ever ridden this masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship.
Finally, at 9.5kg without pedals, this JDM bike represents the pinnacle of 1980s Japanese bicycle manufacturers. Back in 1973, Akira Yoshikawa established Zunow Bicycles, joining the ranks of prestigious Osaka framebuilders.
Subsequently, the company became renowned for their handmade bicycle frames throughout the 1970s and 1980s, contributing significantly to Japanese cycling heritage. Despite their success in custom frame building, they produced very few bikes each year. Furthermore, their innovative Zunow paint techniques stood out from other makers.
As a result, collectors now eagerly seek these rare Japanese frames. Unfortunately, Zunow history took a turn when they stopped making frames in the mid-1990s. However, they continue to make bike parts today.
Frame Craftsmanship: A Japanese Masterpiece
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Built with meticulous attention to bicycle frame construction and frame alignment, this Zunow Z-1 Plus (one of the documented Zunow frame numbers) showcases exceptional Japanese steel frames craftsmanship with its Tange triple-butted tubing.
The pristine red paint job, achieved through proprietary frame materials and finishing techniques, is complemented by elegant chrome details on the fork crown and dropout mounts, embodying the pinnacle of Japanese bicycle manufacturing.
Shimano’s Finest: The Dura-Ace 7402 Groupset
This never-ridden specimen showcases the finest in 7400 series components, featuring a complete Shimano Dura-Ace groupset – a hallmark of Japanese bicycle components of the era.
The drivetrain is enhanced with a period-correct Dura-Ace EX 7-speed cassette, demonstrating the cutting-edge technology of its era and the quality standards set by Japanese bicycle manufacturers.
Premium Italian Cockpit Components
While staying true to its Japanese cycling heritage, the bike’s control center features classic Italian components. It has a Cinelli Criterium 65-40 handlebar (40cm center-to-center) paired with a Cinelli 135mm stem. These aftermarket upgrades complement the frame geometry while maintaining the bike’s high-end pedigree. They offering optimal fit and control, a testament to the versatility of Japanese steel frames.
Racing-Ready Configuration
Exemplifying the precision of custom Japanese bicycles, this bike features competition-oriented frame geometry (60.5cm center-to-center seat tube and 58cm top tube). The frame materials and bicycle frame construction techniques used by Japanese frame builders ensure optimal performance.
It’s fitted with performance-focused components including an Avocet Racing II saddle and Dura-Ace 7400 seatpost. The wheelset combines Dura-Ace EX 36-hole hubs with M. Vögelin rims and tubular tires, creating a responsive 9.5kg racing machine that showcases the best of Japanese craftsmanship.
Investment Potential and Historical Significance
As a pristine example of vintage Japanese bikes, this Zunow Z-1 Plus represents a remarkable piece of cycling history. Its 1.75 rating suggests excellent condition, making it a valuable collector’s item for enthusiasts of JDM bikes. The handmade bicycle frames from this era, showcase the golden age of Japanese cycling culture.
This bicycle serves as a perfect example of why artisan framebuilders from Japan gained such renowned status in the cycling world. With their meticulous attention to detail and superior build quality setting new standards in custom frame building.
If you enjoyed learning about this week’s featured bicycle, don’t miss out on some cycling information you can use and enjoy! Visit our website at pacelinebikes.com Plus, check out our YouTube channel, Bicycle Restoration Man, for detailed restoration videos and showcases of our finished projects. Subscribe and join our community of bike enthusiasts!
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