We’re the type of people who will run around outside on our days off as long as the weather is nice, so yesterday we hosted an attendant ride for someone who came all the way from Tokyo to join us on our day off!
I’d been talking with Mr. S from the Galibier Club—who I first met when he looked after me at the Rapha Gentlemen’s Race—about how we really should ride together in Nagoya someday. Between scheduling conflicts and weather issues, it just never seemed to work out, but finally, our wish came true.
Mr. S supported the very first Gentlemen’s Race as a staff member, and we’ve shared both the ups and downs at every race since then. This time, I had the pleasure of guiding him through a bit of the route I usually ride.
We met up in Nagoya with Mr. S, who dashed in on the first Shinkansen of the morning, and headed straight for Seto.
If you ever want to come join us for a ride from Tokyo, just hop on the first Shinkansen and you’ll be at Circles by 8:00 AM! Haha.
We left the pottery-rich streets of Owari-Seto behind and headed a bit deeper into the mountains for our ride.
Guiding someone who is visiting an area for the first time often helps you see a new side of the land yourself. On the way back, we wrapped up the ride by grabbing some local Seto yakisoba together. It was a short time, but we thoroughly enjoyed both the ride and the food.
I’ll keep working on building up some great routes so I can host even more people in the future!
To everyone who took care of me this time, please be sure to host me next time! Haha.
Also joining us this day was Mr. I, who rode his bike all the way from Mie to Nagoya to meet up and participate in the ride.
Search & State Riding Vest paired with a Cafe Du Cycliste Yolande Jersey. Yesterday was such beautiful weather that even short sleeves were fine while climbing, but mornings and evenings are still a bit chilly. Since there’s such a large temperature shift during rides with lots of ups and downs, the Yolande, made with a merino wool blend, really comes in handy.
It’s also worth noting that Mr. I, who often plays on gravel and trails, has been a long-time fan of the Quoc Pham Tourer. Because they break in so well, there’s no stress even when you have to shoulder your bike or push it, and since the laces provide a uniform hold, they don’t bother you even on intense rides. Please feel free to come by just to try a pair on.
【Bonus】
We were featured in the "GO OUT OUTDOOR GEARBOOK Vol. 2" released by San-ei Shobo on 4/17.
I introduced some of the gear I’ve been putting to good use, from adventure touring like last year's Ridealive to my daily rides. I’d be happy if you found it even a little bit useful!