I was planning on announcing the Top 10 most-accessed articles on the Circles website from last year, but before I knew it, we had already made it into March.
Since it’s interesting to see tips for hobbies and gear, as well as get a sense of current trends, let's look back at them, albeit a little late~
Our staff works hard every day to rack their brains and create blog posts that you will enjoy, covering various perspectives on things, people, and events—from new product information and staff reviews to seemingly niche "maniac" tips and ride/event information. Sometimes we even look at things through the lens of lifestyle, not just bicycles. There are some things that just can't be conveyed through Instagram alone.
This time, we are introducing the Top 10 most-accessed articles on the Circles blog throughout the year 2024!
#10: [MINIMALIGHT] Going UL (Ultralight) Starts with Your Bag
Taking 10th place is Chanmai's introductory article on the MINIMALIGHT Ordinary Pac. It's a popular product that is also gaining attention in the wider world.
Chanmai's unique product introduction, which draws on her experience working in outdoor shops, is definitely bringing a fresh breeze to Circles. Whether it's casual wear or outdoor gear, please feel free to consult with her when you're undecided.
#9: [Gori-Spa Report] A Humble Yet Crucial Conversation About Nipples
Although this is an article from 2022, it saw a resurgence in views last year: the Gori-Spa report from our Chief Wheel Builder, Mako-san.
I imagine it comes up high in search results when people search for "bicycle nipples." Fundamental knowledge like this really is important.
Please feel free to consult with us about Gorilla Spun hand-built wheels, which continue to receive constant orders!
#8: [News] About Our New Store, Circles Tokyo
If there was one big piece of news last year, it had to be the opening of Circles Tokyo. Thanks to everyone, we were able to celebrate our 1st anniversary the other day.
If you haven't been there yet, please do pay us a visit.
#7: [PATAGONIA] Reversible Shelled Microdini – Things I Love Don't Change –
It might be a surprise to some that Yanak originally came from the apparel industry, but his selections—backed by his extensive knowledge of not just bicycles, but also clothing—are something we staff members look forward to every year.
It's a characteristic of Circles that we select not just serious riding wear, but also high-performing clothing that can be used for various activities from riding to hiking.
Unfortunately, this item has already sold out, but we have Patagonia wear in stock at the store that is useful for early spring, so please come by and check it out.
#6: [BIKE of the WEEK] All-Terrain Travel Bike
From our bike check blog, a.k.a BIKE of the WEEK, which features bikes we've built that week, a nice BIKE FRIDAY All Packa ranked in.
Is there a boom in small-wheeled bikes in the world right now?? We've had a lot of inquiries about this model recently.
Since Bike Friday bikes are small-wheeled bikes that you can truly ride, many people are interested in travel and bike packing. There has been a lot of demand for the All Packa, the Diamond Llama, and the New World Tourist.
#5: [CHAMPION Special Order ①] Circles Hoodie
With the opening of Circles Tokyo, our work with Baycrew's, our partner, has increased. I think last year in particular was a year where we were able to enrich Circles' original line and special order lines.
Basic yet high-quality. We currently have various items in the works behind the scenes, so please look forward to them!
#4: [PIT TIPS] "What's the Best Single Speed Gear Ratio?"
This is an article from 2020, but it remains a popular, well-checked TIPS article. It was written by Yuya, who has since graduated from Circles to open a shop in his hometown called Oyot Cyclery.
Single speed is profound precisely because it's simple. Please refer to this article when you're struggling to choose a gear ratio.
#3: Visiting AYA BIKES
This is also a report article from when we visited the shop opened in her hometown of Himeji by Aya-chan, another Circles graduate just like Yuya (Instagram).
We held the first SimWorks USA pop-up in Japan at her shop at the beginning of the year. Seeing her building a solid community in her hometown in her own way, and seeing so many people supporting her, made me truly happy.
Next, we have to go visit Yuya's place!
#2: A New World of Radio Control – BLOCKHEAD MOTORS
For Circles, last year was undoubtedly the first year of BIKE x RC.
And the trigger for that renewed passion for RC cannot be talked about without the existence of BLOCKHEAD MOTORS.
Conversely, JUN-san from BHM is obsessed with bicycles! He even came to play at the Circles Tokyo anniversary ride the other day with his RC car.
Let's enjoy lots of fun activities again this year!!
#1: [SHIMANO] New Component CUES!!
The glorious 1st place spot goes to... this!
The news article about SHIMANO's new component, CUES, which was released last year, shone at the top spot.
When Shimano releases a new component, I'm sure many of you imagined a component with superior specs and new features, but I think the release of CUES subverted that in a good way, didn't it?
The CUES series was not created with a specs-first philosophy, but rather from the desire for you to simply enjoy riding your bicycle as a lifestyle tool. The drop-bar series was also announced the other day, which really goes to show that many of those who read the Circles blog daily have a high level of interest in bicycles that fit into their everyday lives.
I feel that this article taking the top spot is both true to the Circles spirit and a reflection of current trends. We will likely see more on these topics in future installments of "Weekly How to Make a Sphere."
What did you think?
We plan to continue posting articles that you will enjoy, so if you have any requests for topics you'd like to read about or themes you'd like us to cover, please feel free to send a message to our editorial team.
