The typhoon is coming, isn't it? It’s exciting—improper as that may be.
I get an irresistible urge to go outside. What is this feeling?
After thinking about it calmly, I realized that I just love the thrill.
I find it exciting when things are a little dangerous.
And that’s why I love downhill.
When it comes to downhill, you might not think about trying it out.
For one, there’s the image that it’s dangerous.
Personally, I think it’s not fun unless it’s dangerous! But there are courses you can descend without picking up much speed, so even beginners can actually enjoy it quite a bit.
If you feel like you want to give it a try, please give me a shout.
Also, another reason that makes people hesitate:
The equipment is expensive!
Shimano’s downhill components are known as SAINT, but
a full set costs around 100,000 yen, which is a bit pricey.
But for those who want to start now, something has arrived.
Shimano’s new downhill/freeride components, ZEE.
It’s like a younger sibling to SAINT, with a more affordable price point.
Crank ¥9,930
A single-gear setup, since climbing isn't really the goal. 32/34/36T options available.
Shifter ¥3,100
Since there’s only one front chainring, it’s just for the rear, of course.
Rear Derailleur ¥6,350
Available in a downhill version supporting up to a 28T low gear,
and a freeride version for 36T. It’s equipped with a chain stabilizer that prevents chain slap during rides, reducing stress.
Brake Lever ¥12,190 Brake Caliper ¥10,210 (per side)
You might think these are a bit expensive,
but please bear with us as they are 4-piston calipers with strong stopping power.
If air enters the oil line of hydraulic brakes,
they stop functioning as brakes,
making it necessary to perform a process called "bleeding" to remove that air.
Shimano’s hydraulic brakes use a mechanism called One Way Bleeding,
which keeps air bubbles from getting trapped in the caliper by creating a single path for the oil,
allowing for efficient bleeding—which, of course, is also featured in the ZEE brakes.
The whole set has a matte black finish,
and I think it looks pretty cool, don't you?
I might just put them on the mountain bike I’ll be getting soon.
Tomoda