As a younger man I had a deep appreciation for the craft and mysticism surrounding the art of the Samurai sword, or katana. Now that I am older, I can direct that same respect towards bicycles—most especially Keirin-style frames. While every handmade frame retains an aspect of it’s builder, Japanese frames are also imbued with a certain warrior spirit.
Keirin frames are designed to race, and Kinfolk have taken that ethos to the streets by contracting Kusaka-san to create frames designed to compete on the urban racetrack. This is their latest build, for Ryan, and is a perfect example of their focus on quality and culture. As usual, a selection of components has been chosen for their structural integrity and construction: Campagnolo Record hubs, a Brooks Swift saddle with titanium rails and NJS approved Nitto stem and bars.
Kinfolk is a subsidiary of the Ways & Means Institute for Advanced Living. You can absorb their winning philosophy on the Kinfolk website.
