This weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” is the Bridgestone X0- Renowned for its innovative bicycle designs, the X0-1 left an indelible mark on the cycling world with its diverse lineup tailored for the US market. Amidst this array of options, one particular model stood out as a testament to Grant Petersen’s unique vision of bicycle design: the XO-1. Even nearly three decades after Bridgestone ceased its operations in the US, the XO-1 continues to command a fervent following, earning its title as the quintessential “Cult Bike.”

However, the pièce de résistance, and perhaps the most polarizing aspect of the XO-1, was its distinctive, controversial mustache handlebar crafted by Nitto. Another Grant Peterson diversion from the norm.

MUSTACHE HANDLEBARS INSPIRED BY JAPANESE CULTURE

Inspired by Japanese bike culture, where schools often prohibited drop bars, the mustache bar of the XO-1 combined elements of flat and drop bars. It offered a sporty yet controlled ride suitable for adult American hands. Despite its innovative design, it exuded a retro charm that divided opinion. The Bridgestone enthusiasts embracing its novelty while the cycling press remained skeptical.

BRIDGESTONE X0-1: CRITICS NOT TOTALLY IMPRESSED

The critics, notably in Bicycling Magazine’s April 1992 review, focused on the handlebars, labeling them cool but impractical. Obviously, this overshadowing the bike’s other merits. The XO-1’s classification as a hybrid further puzzled reviewers and retailers. It’s unique design defied categorization, embodying a versatility that allowed owners to shape its identity according to their preferences. Of course, this is what Mr. Peterson intended all along.

Debuting in 1992, the XO-1 epitomized versatility, aiming to be the quintessential “do anything” bike capable of effortlessly transitioning between road and trail terrains. Most of all, it embodied the essence of a hybrid bike.  It definitely sidestepped the conventional label.  Sporting a road bike frame and geometry coupled with 26″ wheels.  Furthermore, the XO-1 boasted slick road tires while accommodating mountain bike tires of up to 1.6″ width.

Consequently, Grant Peterson left Bridgestone and started Rivendell Bicycle Works. Rivendell is renowned for crafting timeless bicycles that prioritize comfort, durability, and versatility over high-tech gadgetry. With a commitment to traditional craftsmanship and a philosophy rooted in the joy of cycling.

Three decades since its inception, the XO-1 continues to occupy a revered status in the cycling community.  Revered for its timeless design and unwavering reliability.  Equally important, Its enduring legacy serves as a testament to Bridgestone’s pioneering spirit and Petersen’s visionary approach to bicycle craftsmanship.

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This weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” is a 3Rensho XR-7000 Lo-Pro Pursuit Bike. These bikes were more commonly known as “Funny Bikes” because of the extreme tube angles. It took the owner 3 years to complete the build. However, the years it took paid off since it turned out fantastic. It was purchased from Japan as just a frameset and the owner soon found out it was built under license by Yamakuni.

Interesting to note, Yamakuni was one of the pioneering Japanese companies to mass-produce welded aluminum frames. They introduced notable models like the 1986 Centurion Facet and potentially others such as the Miyata Omnium, Diamondback Arrival, and the Kuwahara Maragay MTB. Additionally, Yamakuni produced bikes under their own brand, including the “Yamakuni Wolf” and “Country Bird” MTBs, along with a road bike, which bore resemblance to the Facet yet remained unnamed.

Dependable Suntour Cyclone 7000 Groupset on this Pursuit Bike

Following the re-chroming of the fork, the main triangle remained untouched. Subsequently, a scarcely-used Georgina Terry Despatch from 1988 was acquired. It was disassembled to save the 6-speed Suntour Cyclone 7000 groupset and the 24″ front / 700c rear wheelset. It’s worth noting, that while the 3Rensho catalog displayed it with a Shimano 600 group, it was also offered as a frameset. Notably, Cyclone ranked as Suntour’s second-best group, akin to how 600 stood a step below Dura Ace.

Since the rear rim was cracked, the owner replaced it with a new Araya RC-540. The NITTO brand was used for the stem (S65 Crystal Fellow), the handlebars (RB-021 bullhorn) and the seat post (S66). Another nice feature is how the brake cables were installed to run inside the handlebars. The craftmanship is demonstrated by the ornate fork crown (upper right image).

First thing to remember, this pursuit bike and time trial bikes are made to go fast. The extreme angles on this bicycle were made to position the rider as low as possible for an aero dynamic advantage. For this reason, and for the fact that the arms are brought closer together, the bike has a very twitchy feel to it.

However, it was noted by the owner that once you are settled, you feel “locked in”. He road the bike in some Brooklyn traffic which he noted that he would never do again! The 3Rensho is made to go straight and fast. For an example, better to ride in open roads with wide turns.

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