Hello, this is Yoshimoto from Circles Tokyo.
Do you remember the article I wrote on this blog titled "In Search of Playgrounds: Expanding the World of Riding Through Rinko (Bike Packing for Trains)"? (If you haven't read it yet, please check it out here!)
The thrill of leaving the Kanto Plain behind and "warping" to Fukushima or Izu. And at the end of that article, I wrote something like this:
“Actually, all I carry is a bike bag and three straps. It’s an UL style without even using an end protector! (omitted) If there is enough interest, I would love to hold a Rinko school at Circles Tokyo.”
……Since I wrote it, I’m doing it. Or rather, please let me do it.
Thankfully, I received many requests saying, "I really want to know how to do that!"
The wait is over. I am holding a workshop to teach you the "Yoshimoto-style UL (Ultralight) Rinko technique"—the one I mentioned back then, which finishes with minimal gear and no need for an end protector—so you can apply it to your own beloved bike!
"No need to overthink it, just hop on."
By just setting off like that, your daily life expands a little. And that is what "Rinko" is: a tool that maximizes its function as a hub, allowing you to warp to distant towns and mountains that you wouldn't be able to reach by riding alone.
However, when talking to people at the shop, I find that many people don't take that first step because they feel "Rinko = heavy, troublesome, and difficult." Especially with specialized tools like "end protectors"—those things are bulky to carry, aren't they?
This isn't just a guide on procedures. It is a workshop where you will understand the structure behind "why it works" to help you move more freely and lightly.
Minimal gear, maximal knowledge.
When I go Rinko, this is all I bring:
- A lightweight bike bag
- 3 straps, such as Voile Straps
That's right, I don't use a so-called "end protector."
"Wait, won't that bend the frame (dropouts)?" I’m sure you think that. Of course, it will bend if you do it without thinking.
But try thinking about it from another angle. Even if you use an end protector, if the fixing screw comes loose and shifts, it can actually cause damage to the frame due to leverage.
The important thing is not to rely solely on tools, but to understand where it touches the ground and how the load is applied when packing. Once you understand the structure, you can reduce the amount of gear and become much more mobile.
Finding your own "optimal solution"
In this workshop, I won't be forcing a textbook method on you. I will look at the frame shape and size of each participant's bike and personally suggest your "own optimal solution," like saying, "For this bike, a 30cm strap right here would be perfect."
Of course, depending on the model and frame shape, I may judge that my method carries a risk. In that case, I will honestly advise, "You should use an end protector." The important thing is to correctly understand the risks and benefits so that you can make your own choices, even with other bikes.
I hope to offer the most lightweight proposal possible, not just by cutting down gear, but by considering what is actually necessary based on the individual bike and the riding goals of each participant.
Practice Session: The No-Holds-Barred "Bike Packing Contest"
Once you understand the logic, it's time to practice. To wrap up the workshop, we will hold a "Packing Contest" where you actually pack your own bike!
I, Yoshimoto, will judge not just based on time, but on "neatness" and "safety" based on my own judgment and prejudice. The winner will receive the necessary amount of "optimally sized straps" chosen on the spot! Win, and you'll get your gear for free (lol).
- Event Details
- Date: Sunday, December 14th
- Time: 15:00–16:00 (approx. 1 hour)
- Location: Circles Tokyo POPUP Space
- Capacity: 3 people (small group size so I can take a close look)
- Participation fee: 2,500 JPY
- Instructor: Yoshimoto (Circles Tokyo)
- What to bring: Your own bicycle, your own Rinko gear (if you have any) *You can bring your own gear, or attend empty-handed!
Learn the "Why" (structure), not just the "How-to."
A mechanic-level Rinko technique that you can use for the rest of your life, regardless of the bike you ride. Why not arm yourself with the weapon of lightness for your year-end/New Year's travels and homecomings?
We look forward to your reservations via DM on the Circles Tokyo Instagram.