【BIKE of the WEEK】BikeFriday Diamond Llama

I believe "Anywhere, to the ends of the earth" is the theme of a bicycle.

I trust that our love for Bike Friday comes across even to those who only occasionally read our Circles articles.
You'll understand it even better if you read the trilogy by our boss from the recent past.

• WHAT ABOUT BIKE FRIDAY ?
• WHAT ABOUT BIKE FRIDAY 2
• WHAT ABOUT BIKE FRIDAY 3

A trilogy overflowing with love.

However, I have decided that this Diamond Llama, which wasn't introduced in that trilogy, will be my next Bike Friday.

Why is that?

Because I believe that this Diamond Llama is the bike that most vividly embodies the bicycle theme I have in mind.

Styling reminiscent of 90s mountain bikes

Back when I first started cycling, the world was in the midst of one of many mountain bike booms; I was thrilled by all the colorful bicycles constructed from metal triangular frames that flooded the streets.

Time has passed, and even in this era where the primary material for bicycles has shifted from metal to carbon fiber, I just can't seem to forget those metal triangles.

Triangles (truss structures), as seen in iron bridges and towers, are ideal for efficiently absorbing forces, making them the perfect shape for bicycles that are constantly subjected to forces from both above and below.

As a result, this Diamond Llama, which adopts the triangle, is the sturdiest model in the Bike Friday lineup. Not only is it great for gravel and off-road riding, but with upgrades for heavy-weight riders, it can even support a weight of 150kg.
With that level of sturdiness, depending on the rider's skill, such feats as this are even possible.

Of course, that sturdiness isn't there to say "you can do anything you want," but rather as a critical requirement for a touring bike—allowing you to ride with peace of mind even on rough roads while heavily loaded, ensuring you can continue your journey.

Handlebars that offer a comfortable riding position on and off-road

The original Bike Friday H-Bar handlebar features a design reminiscent of flat handlebars with bar ends attached, giving it a style that also calls to mind the XC race bikes of yesteryear.

This design solves the issue typical of flat bars where there are few hand positions and it’s hard to change posture, allowing for a comfortable riding position that provides peace of mind on long rides.

Additionally, these handlebars can be split, so they don't get in the way when folding—a brilliant feature and an item definitely worth equipping.

Generous tire clearance

Tires are, of course, critical for long journeys.
I find myself seeking the conflicting qualities of light pedaling, grip both on and off-road, and strength and durability.

The Diamond Llama, which uses 20-inch (406) wheels, can accommodate tires up to 2.1 inches in width. Being able to fit such wide tires means you can choose anything from off-road to on-road tires as you please, and running wider tires increases cushioning, leading to a more comfortable tour.

Bike Fridays are custom-ordered bikes

Not just the Diamond Llama, but all Bike Fridays are custom-built to the owner's physical requirements.
Because of this, the lead time can be a bit long.

But while you're waiting, if you let your imagination run wild thinking about "what kind of trip I'll take" or "where I'll go," the time will fly by.
If you think about the fact that you're getting a one-of-a-kind bike, the wait shouldn't be painful at all.
It really is a bike that answers the call of "Anywhere, to the ends of the earth."

BIKE FRIDAY Diamond Llama Owner’s Special

We are currently sharing a photo archive of bikes built at Circles.
Please use it to help spark your own ideas for a custom bike.