It’s been a little while, but thank you all for stopping by the BIKELAND Makuhari booth the other day!
As it was our first unveiling in the Kanto region, I got the impression that many of you were genuinely interested in the Exposure. We were so happy to see so many people taking it for a test ride, especially since we brought along every available size.
Please be sure to check out Mr. Kimura’s entry for the thoughts behind the development of this original frame, which Circles poured its heart and soul into as part of the RAL brand.
As the person in charge of assembling the S, M, and L size bikes for this unveiling, I’d like to introduce each of them—a frame that bears the name "Trail Commuter."
By the way, these three bikes are available as test rides at our Nagoya and Tokyo locations, respectively.
Size : S / Daily Commuter Concept (Available for test ride in Nagoya)
First, the smallest S size was built with the "Commuter" part of "Trail Commuter" in mind.
With slightly swept-back handlebars and a front rack, this bike is built for daily use while also being ready for a little getaway on the local trails.
It’s currently fitted with Super Yummy tires, but you could easily go with slicks if you’re focusing more on city riding. I chose Velocity Nobs for the rims. If I were building this bike right now, I’d definitely go with SURLY’s Ultra New Hub.
Size : M / Trail Concept (Available for test ride in Tokyo)
This bike, which we showcased as the main model during the launch, represents the heart of the Exposure build.
I put this together to express the "Trail" side of "Trail Commuter."
With high-rise handlebars and chunky knobby tires, the idea is that you can dive straight onto the trail.
I actually took a prototype with this setup out on the trails myself, and as long as you get the gear ratio right, it’s a total blast.
If you can’t ride up something, you can just push—it might seem restrictive at first, but there’s a real joy in finding freedom within those limitations.
Size : L / Cruiser Concept (Available for test ride in Nagoya)
And although those who came to BIKELAND got a sneak peek, this marks the first public debut of the L-size build.
Using the SimWorks x Sycip JB Bar, this build has a cruiser-like feel. It’s a fun bike for just sitting back and cruising the city, or ripping through dirt like a klunker.
If you noticed something in these photos and thought "Hmm?", then you’ve got a sharp eye.
This is the "little bonus that comes with it" mentioned in Mr. Kimura’s blog.
The track ends for single-speed use are default, but it actually comes with a replacement end that includes a derailleur hanger as a bonus. In other words, you can gear it up if you want.
However, because it’s primarily designed as a single-speed, we kept the frame design simple and didn't include cable housing stops. Our stance is that you can get creative and install your own as shown in the pictures.
I have a bit of a rebellious streak where I always want to build bikes using every bit of frame clearance available, so for this, I really wanted to try the widest tires I could find. I used some old 26×2.55″ WTB Weirwolf tires I had lying around.
Of course, it depends on the rim, so I can’t say it works for everything, but I had plenty of clearance even with this. I have some other tires in mind that I really want to use, and I’m hoping to secure them before the frame is finished (but that’s still a secret for now🤫).
Pre-orders are open until Thursday, December 25th!
As mentioned in the launch blog, the Exposure is not a perfect bike. If anything, as a frame alone, it is perfectly incomplete.
That’s precisely why it offers the freedom to project your own vision of how you want to use it.
Swap the tires and gear ratio, and you can escape the city for the trails.
You don't need to build it with all-new parts, either—if you have parts on hand, it’s great to put them to good use.
As long as the rider has the imagination and the will to push the pedals, you can simply enjoy the ride. I believe this frame has turned into something that acts as a mirror reflecting your own identity, and more than anything, a tool you can use for years to come.
Pre-orders are open until Thursday, December 25th. We have test bikes in each size at our Nagoya and Tokyo stores, so if you’re able to come by, please drop in and take one for a ride this weekend.
RAL Exposure – Trail Commuter Frame Set
Price: 88,000 yen (tax included)
Frame delivery is scheduled for May–June.
You can place your order at Circles, Circles Tokyo, or any CWD dealer across the country.
