Last weekend, we had the pleasure of exhibiting at HANGOUT. Despite the unfortunate weather, along with the concurrently held DA MONDE TRAIL on Sunday, I believe it became a wonderful event driven by an energy that refused to be dampened by the bad weather.
The word "hangout" implies a place where friends gather, and it was just that—a place where outdoor enthusiasts, regardless of whether they were into cycling, running, or hiking, all came together. It was impressive to see such a strong groove created over those two days that didn't let the rain stand in its way.
This time, we also provided an opportunity to test ride KONA bikes on a tour of the Kenmin no Mori single tracks. Since it's quite rare for people to have the chance to ride such unpaved paths, the tour was well-received on both days. Taking on a challenge is the best thing you can do!
When we hear the word "ride," we often imagine pure cycling enjoyment, but we view riding as using a bicycle as a means of transport to reach a goal as well. (We love both, of course!) That is why we decided to go to HANGOUT.
Photo By Shimpei Koseki
If you want to climb a mountain, you can ride your bike to the trailhead and hike from there; if you want to go fishing, you can strap your rod to your bike and head out to the field. The clothes you wear or the gear you use don't necessarily have to be cycling-specific; they just need to be easy to use. We believe it's best if they are things you can grow attached to and use for a long time.
The source of the ideas behind RAL lies exactly in that sentiment, which is also a major reason why Circles, a bicycle shop, stocks Patagonia, Houdini, running shoes, camping gear, and more.
Bicycles play different roles for different people, but since you've hopped on one, we want you to enjoy it to the fullest and take good care of it so it lasts a long time, even if it breaks. There is definitely a fun world waiting for you beyond that, and we hope to share that world with you, even if just a little, using the bicycle as a tool for fun, while also helping you along the way as it is our duty.
Photo By Shimpei KosekiThe test bikes we prepared for this event are still available at our shop.
Please take this opportunity to try them out.
HANGOUT was a great opportunity to meet many people and think about playing and living beyond the boundaries of our respective genres. I look forward to meeting new friends there again. Thank you to everyone who attended and to all the staff involved!
Bonus.
There was also a sketching competition held at the venue. I was watching you draw so hard the whole time. Thank you!