In Nagoya, the number of days where the minimum temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius is increasing, and with cold wind now creeping in around my feet as I pedal my bike, I've been consciously choosing to wear thicker or longer socks for my commute lately.
Tonight, I'd like to introduce the feet of the bicycle: tires.
First up is this new arrival.
SK stands for Semi Knob. Because the knobs are smaller and shorter than those on typical block tires and are arranged at a slightly higher density, they perform well on both gravel and on-road surfaces.
While this tire was previously available in 32mm, 35mm, and 40mm widths, a 26mm model has newly joined the lineup. It might be perfect for riders looking to improve their on-road performance.
Of course, besides this slender newcomer, we also carry our standard tire staples.
Next up is this tough option.
Twenty-five years ago, the German tire manufacturer Schwalbe developed the Marathon model by supporting a rider planning a world tour, repeating practical field tests, and covering over 730,000km in four years.
The tire features a 3mm-thick puncture-resistant "GreenGuard" belt embedded in the center, which not only provides high puncture resistance but also resists wear from friction with the ground. Whether for touring or just for your daily bike, you can ride with peace of mind every single day.
Finally, a recommendation from me, as a fixed-gear rider.
And now, to all the fixed-gear boys and girls—thanks for waiting. Many of you are likely familiar with MASH, which could be said to have ignited the fixed-gear culture in San Francisco nine years ago.
Late last year, we even held an event at Circles to coincide with the MASH JAPAN PREMIERE. The Vittoria Randonneur tires that the MASH crew used exclusively were, as the name implies, originally developed for randonneuring, and they combine high durability and wear resistance thanks to the hard outer rubber and the puncture-resistant belt layered inside.
When you perform skids, the quintessential thrill of riding a fixed gear, the tread pattern on the surface wears away, revealing the red puncture-resistant belt layer. I suspect many people use the Randonneur because they admire that look on the rear tires of the MASH crew. Tomoda-san, our resident fixed-gear boy/leader here at Circles, is a fan as well and is practically showing off those red lines.
Why not entrust the feet of your daily commuter bike or your all-road gravel bike to these tough guys, and enjoy a ride with peace of mind?