Now here is a really cool messenger ride I spotted this morning in downtown San Francisco. It's a Keirin bike made by Makino. I've always wanted to learn more about Keirin. Maybe because I speak Japanese, maybe because I spent time riding all over Japan (on a motorcycle), or maybe just because I like bicycle racing, but for whatever reason it's been on my list of topics to study a bit further.

I'd love to know anything anyone has to add on this Makino. San-Renshos (always funny to hear them called "Three Renshos" in English because of how it's written "3Rensho") seem to be the more talked about Keirin bikes in the United States so I'm a bit more familiar with them, but I was really happy to spot this beautiful Makino today.

Take a look at the fork clearance for the front wheel! I don't think you could even slip a piece or rice paper in there!

Interesting front hub as well with what looks like a radial spoke pattern. I also like the flip flop rear.

Anyone know what model frame this is? or have any Keirin knowledge they can impart? I think these frames go for between $1000 and $2000 USD new in Japan, but I could be wrong. Great seeing one used to hard in SF and casually locked to a city trash can!








It looks similar to this one (for sale here): **********???MAKINO - BoozeRidez Blog


Makino has a pretty active Twitter feed with some interesting pictures and images of steel frame building. You have to dig a bit (and be comfortable with Japanese or Google Translate).

Great Facebook pages as well:
https://www.facebook.com/makino.cf
https://www.facebook.com/MAKINO.CYCLE