Thanks to that event hosted by Chris King
Yes. It was that major event called the "Gourmet Century Ride" held in Asuke-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. I remember participating as staff, spending time so lively I didn't even have time to blink.
I vividly remember how Chris King himself came all the way from Portland, USA, for this ride event focused on "bicycles and food," and how it turned into such a lively, happy exchange with all the Chris King and SimWorks fans who gathered from all over Japan.
When I first met Chris King in person, his demeanor was so sincere; he truly listened and paid attention to my awkward self-introduction.
At the same time, I was able to get my hands on a very special frame called "Cielo," and I actually ended up asking Chris King himself, who created it, for his autograph (sweat).
I will never forget those moments. I handed him a white Posca marker (medium point), and as he fulfilled my request to "Name, please," and signed "CHRIS KING" on the frame, I got goosebumps.
That was nearly seven years ago now.
Since I started riding my Cielo, I've had more opportunities to go out on my bike. Whether it’s ripping through gravel roads around Seto City while guiding customers, enjoying a delicious bowl of Chinese noodles at "Akintei" after conquering unfamiliar gravel, or being moved by a view I stumble upon during a ride—I've felt the "importance of riding" firsthand.
And, just like many other tools, if you neglect a bicycle, it will eventually show signs of wear.
This could be deterioration around the handlebars, which are essential for steering, or wear on the drivetrain and loosening of the wheels from thousands of kilometers of trail exploration.
My Cielo is starting to have a noisy rear wheel, so I suppose I’ll have to write up an estimate for a wheel rebuild (laughs).
Because it's a long-term relationship
Bicycles break. That might just be an unavoidable fact.
Even so, if you take good care of them, they can last a long time. That’s why I want to make the most of my time with this bike—both the time spent with friends and the time spent on my own.
Throughout my time with this Cielo, I’ve used it for everything—from my daily commute to extraordinary rides. I think it’s important to take it easy, and when the moment arises, to take a look at the bike and give it some maintenance.
So, if I were to suggest a first bike to anyone, I think it should be one you can "really push" and use thoroughly.
I hope that before the warm spring arrives, you can hop on a vibrant bike and enjoy the year ahead!
With that in mind, I want to focus on the SURLY Steamroller as a perfect first bike. Let's go!
For those of you who want the riding experience
I personally think the SURLY Steamroller is arguably the best choice for a first bike.
It’s a purely track-focused frame, and while it excels at commuting and getting to school, its generous tire clearance also means it can swallow wider slick or block tires with ease, making it a breeze to rip through rough road surfaces.
You’re also free to arrange the cockpit however you like. If you prioritize city riding, you can choose handlebars with a wider width for a more relaxed ride.
Conversely, for the bold ones who say, "I want to do long rides on this thing!", I recommend drop handlebars.
You might end up with the memorable regret of realizing halfway through the ride, "Oh right, this is a single-speed..." (sweat/laughs).
I believe the SURLY Steamroller is a machine that can stand by people from head to toe.
Regardless of your budget, compared to road bikes or mountain bikes, the variety of parts is significantly simplified, making it a companion that is easy for anyone to handle and use to its absolute limit.
SURLY Steamroller Frame/Fork Set
Finally, at Circles, we explain how to ride, safety precautions, and basic maintenance when you pick up your bike, so even beginners can get started with confidence and joy.
We also invite people on rides, so I’d love for you to join us as we explore Nagoya or head out into the mountains to help level up your riding skills!!
Stay safe everyone, and let's live a fun bicycling life.
