The Beautiful Mixte Frame: BASSI Rachel
We recently started carrying the Canadian brand BASSI, which designs everything from rugged tourers and well-balanced single-speed frames to bikes perfect for city riding.
The bike we’re introducing this time is the beautiful mixte/step-through, the Rachel.
Named after the street where C&L Cycles (BASSI’s flagship store) is located, this frame is a rare mixte/step-through design that BASSI positions as a touring/commuter bike.
Let me explain! Or, let me get this out of the way!
A mixte/step-through is a frame where the top tube slopes sharply down toward the rear wheel.
Because of that steep slope, it creates plenty of clearance when straddling the top tube, making it the perfect frame for shorter riders or those wearing skirts.
That’s right—this bike is perfect for riders around 150–160cm tall!
I’ll skip over the specs and weight for now and just let me introduce it.
What makes this bike great!
1. It comes with a basket!
A basket is a natural addition for a bike that supports your daily life. It’s a huge help for commuting to work or school, shopping, or even for a picnic—though it’s getting a bit cold for that now.
You might have the impression that sports bikes don’t come with baskets, but let’s set that preconceived notion aside.
Even when we say "sports bike," the ways they are used are diverse and endless. The high customizability is actually one of the best parts of a sports bike. You don't have to use it just for outdoor leisure. Use it for your daily commute, for your weekend rides, or just for a quick trip to the convenience store.
So, if you’re using it for daily life, you can't overlook the convenience of a basket, right?
2. The front light turns on automatically!
Thanks to a dynamo hub, the ultimate component, the front light turns on as soon as you start pedaling, day or night. It’s genuinely convenient. With sports bikes, lights are usually sold separately and require charging, which is surprisingly a hassle. It happens all the time: you're about to ride and the battery is dead, or you stayed out too long and left the light at home. (Never ride without lights!)
You’re freed from that annoyance. Yes, with a dynamo hub.
My bike also has a dynamo hub, and because the light turns on automatically every time I start moving—no need to press a button or charge a battery—I’m as grateful as Hiroshi Fujioka.
3. The ultra-stable center stand
Side stands aren't bad, but haven't you ever had one break? If you have something in the front basket or the wind catches it, they tip over easily, and before you know it, they're bent out of shape.
But! A center stand supports the bike from the middle with two legs, providing incredible stability! Plus, there’s a dedicated stand mount welded into the frame, so the stand doesn't shift around. (Though, be careful: if you put something heavy in the basket, the handlebars might flop over.)
4. Elegant silver components!
It’s completely a matter of taste, but it’s my personal rule to build these kinds of bikes with silver parts. I chose components that are balanced—perfect for real riding without being over-spec—and focused on making sure everything comes together beautifully in silver.
Just like with clothes, when you can wear something that you think is cool, something you love, your excitement levels go up, right? Since it's something you'll use every day, I assembled this to make sure you’ll love it—and to make you think, "It’s so cute!" (please do think that).
Man, what a great bike!!!!
I introduced it primarily for city riding, but since it’s also a touring-capable bike, if you ever want to try a day trip or a long ride in the future, this bike is definitely ready for it.
I actually built this bike with the concept of "a bike I'd want my girlfriend to ride."
Spend your days off roaming the city on this bike. Find a nice cafe, enjoy a slow cup of coffee. On the way home, stop by the grocery store, load up the basket, and carry the groceries for h...
The last part was a joke, of course. I’ll carry all the bags.
I would be very happy if this became a bike that supports your life.
BASSI BIKES Rachel Commuter Complete
Size: 47cm (Fits riders roughly 150cm–160cm)
Color: Fondue (Brown)
Price: ¥330,000 (tax included)
Since we have very limited stock, we will be selling these in-store only for the time being. Thank you for your understanding.
| Frame Set | BASSI BIKES Rachel |
| Handlebar | NITTO B604AAF |
| Stem | NITTO FW30 Power Stem |
| Front Hub | VELOCITY Dynamo Hub |
| Dynamo Light | BUSCH+MULLER IQXS |
| Basket | WALD Multi Fit Front S(137) |
| Kickstand | PLETSCHER Twin Leg |
| Grip | VELO ORANGE Foam Grip |
| Tire | SCHWALBE Kojak 26×2.0″ |
| Component | SHIMANO 9 Speed |
Pedals are not included, so let’s find a pair you like.
We have one left in the slightly larger 51cm size. It fits riders from about 160cm–170cm. For build requests, please visit us in-store or send us an email.
Please consider it!
