Velo City: Bicycle Culture and City Life

A Giro Meccanico stripped raw in Madrid

Meccanico Giro NJS restoration

Japanese Keirin frames are known for their fancy paint schemes — infused with glitter and bearing the elaborate and deeply venerated marques of their builders. Madrid’s Eduardo Sanchez acquired a Giro Meccanico frame whose coat of paint was beyond admiration.

So instead of trying to replicate the original, he removed it completely, highlighting the craftsmanship instead.

Meccanico Giro NJS restoration
Eduardo stripped the frame, removing every last trace of paint with steel wool. To be able to admire the brass and filing of the Japanese master builder is a revelation, as they need to demonstrate the highest level of skill before being awarded the honor of the NJS stamp.

After waxing the frame to resist corrosion, the search began for appropriate components.

Meccanico Giro NJS restoration
Madrid is a city with extensive elevation which, while thrilling, can be challenging on a track bike. Eduardo installed a Sturmey Archer coaster hub, allowing freewheeling and braking down slopes — relieving the knees while maintaining the clean lines.

Velo Orange Belleville bars, a Nitto Pearl stem, and vintage Superbe cranks were added, the unassuming look completed by a vintage Ideale saddle.

It’s proof that finely crafted bikes from Japan don’t need to dress to impress.

Meccanico Giro NJS restoration
Meccanico Giro NJS restoration
Meccanico Giro NJS restoration
Meccanico Giro NJS restoration