Winter is here, isn't it? The water is freezing when I'm checking for punctures in the tub at the Mamachari Pit.
We climbed Mt. Mikuni on yesterday’s CRC Morning Ride, and the puddles were frozen over.
It’s cold, but you warm up once you start pedaling, and the crisp air at the top of the mountain is just wonderful.
You can encounter scenery this beautiful, too. Why don't you join us next time?
We're hoping to hold another ride next week. I'll share the details soon.
Good evening, this is Nabetaku. I just discovered that my current favorite band, never young beach, covers Wataru Takada’s "Jitensha ni Notte" (On My Bike), and I’m absolutely stoked.
"On my bike, just heading over there, 'cause I feel like taking a walk~"
I play it in the shop sometimes, so please give it a listen.
It’s a different song, but this one is good, too~.
Well then, today's product introduction is something that is the most important part of your bike, easy to swap out, and makes a noticeable difference depending on the product.
It is...
Tires!
I've personally used a lot of different ones, but my recent obsession is fat slick tires!
I use my cyclocross race bike, the "Doppo Racer," for touring as well, and the tires I usually have on it are the Gravel King (no knobs) in 32c.
[Panaracer] GravelKing - 4,752 yen (tax included)
People usually associate slick tires with 23c to 28c widths, but at 32c, the stability from the extra width and the increased air volume mean better vibration absorption, which reduces body fatigue. Since there are no off-road knobs, the grip is excellent, and they don't feel heavy on flat ground, so it's a really pleasant ride.
That said, honestly, I think I could go even wider, so I've brought in some new tires.
[Challenge] STRADA BIANCA - 7,682 yen (tax included)
The Strada Bianca uses a supple "Open Tubular" construction (a clincher that feels like a tubular), which has a solid reputation in cyclocross. They used to top out at 30c, but they’ve just been released with an increased air volume of 36c.
If you find an interesting unpaved road during your ride, this width allows you to pedal right into it without hesitation.
[Challenge] Gravel Grinder Race - 4,924 yen (tax included)
We’ve also restocked the Gravel Grinder 38c, which is recommended for gravel rides at a more affordable price point. This isn't an open tubular but a standard clincher. It’s not a slick tire, so there is a bit more resistance on paved roads, but the side knobs provide a completely different level of confidence.
Now that the weeds have withered and the bugs are gone, this is the perfect time for an adventure ride.
[Challenge] GRIFO 33 OPEN WHITE - 7,862 yen (tax included)
And in the Challenge category, not to be confused with "white Black Thunder," the white Grifo has also been restocked. Since most tires are black, a white choice is sure to stand out. With an all-round knob pattern and open tubular construction, this is a great item you can use anywhere.
Here’s how they look installed. This is staff member Shiga’s Cielo. A cool bike for a cool guy—it looks sharp. This Sunday is the Tokai Cyclocross in Kakamigahara. Why not make these Challenge tires, which I use myself, your secret weapon?
It’s also about time to start thinking about end-of-year house cleaning. Why not refresh your tires and prepare for your final ride of the year or the annual year-end STRAVA event, Festive 500!
Feel free to ask us about other tire options as well.
That's all for now. Thanks for visiting us today. We'll be waiting for you at Circles again tomorrow from 10:00!