Bicycle Reviews

日本語 (Japanese)

Bicycle Reviews

Overview

CycleKyoto periodically reviews Kyoto-friendly bikes.

A "Kyoto-friendly" bike is:

  • less than 50,000 yen (about $500)
  • a city bike (easy to ride, easy to park, good for shopping and commuting)
  • chain guard, easy shifting, basket, easy on the back, can take the rain and potholes, etc.

Giant CS 3000

An excellent reasonably priced Cross bike. The advantages of a mountain bike without the knobby tires. Shimano frame weighing 13 kg plus 21 gears - great for city riding and more.

  • Price: 37,800 yen
  • Size: 380mm, 430 mm, 480 mm
  • WEIGHT:13.1kg
  • Issue: a quick and easy key-lock cannot be fitted on the rear wheel, no chain guard.

Bridgestone Markrosa

This model is less zippy than a cross bike, but is wonderful. It has a sensor-controlled light that goes on when it is dark out and you start moving. Amazing. Sleek 26" tires make for a good ride. For a woman or smaller man, an excellent bike.

  • Price: 37,800 yen
  • Size: 430 mm
  • WEIGHT:16.1kg
  • Issue: With a basket loaded up front, the combined weight with the light sensor means that the bike is prone to fall over when you park. Make sure the front wheel is stable - then let go.

Bridgestone Subnade Sport

A big "lady's bike" that comes in 27 inch size. Perfect for the neighborhood or shopping trips. Six gears are sufficient for city riding.

  • Price: 32,800 yen
  • Size: 26 inch, 27 inch
  • WEIGHT:15.7kg
  • Colors: blue, green, off-white
  • Issue: With a basket loaded up front, the combined weight with the light sensor means that the bike is prone to fall over when you park. Make sure the front wheel is stable - then let go.