In an effort to reduce expenses, I have decided to take up cycling as a mean of commuting to work. By cycling, I could save on transportation costs commuting to work and save on monthly gym memberships as I would be getting exercise on the bike. At first, I was apprehensive due to the chaotic traffic, riding along side double decker buses and the unpredictable rainy weather in central London. However, cycling made sense financially and physically.
After weeks of searching for a commuter bike, the model I keep coming back to is the Tokyo Bike CS. The vintage style, simplicity and minimalist vibe drew my attention. After going for short test ride – I was quickly convinced this was the most pleasant ride I’ve had on two wheels.
We also have the Bisou – so check out our review on that as well.
The Bike
The Tokyo Bike Classic Sport is a simple, light-weight, city bike with 8 speeds. The lightness carries with it a certain sense of agility and control and is able to command swift speed on the get go with its 8-speed Shimano gear set. The newest version comes with smaller 26” wheels and a semi matt paint finish. It’s a quick but comfortable ride and can be easily fitted with mudguards, racks or baskets for commuting.
Frame: 4130 full Cr-Mo steel
Colours (semi-matt finish): blue grey, ivory, mint, moss green, mustard, navy, bamboo, sand brown and willow
Gears: SHIMANO CLARIS 8 speed with Rapidfire shift lever (42T x 12-25T)
Wheels & Tyres: silver rims and ivory side wall tyres* (HE 26×1.15)
Details: Semi riser handlebar with brown grips & saddle
Weight: 11.4kg (53cm)
Kickstand and bell included
For full specs and more information see the tokyobike website
The Frame
The frame is constructed from lightweight chromo steel. Although it is not the lightest material it’s slim diameter frame certainly makes it look and feel very light weight. In addition to being lightweight, the Classic Sport also offers a slightly upright & comfort minded ride position.
The Handle Bar
The handle bar is a flat handle bar with leather grips. Due to the frame and handle bar, the riding position provides a comfortable ride. It feels very sturdy and nimble at the same time.
The Seat
The seat is leather with a slight cushion. Great for shorter rides however not as comfortable when commuting over and hour in length.
The Brakes
In keeping with the lightweight profile of the bike, it comes fitted with quite standard rubber brakes which are replaceable when worn out. Although Not a disc brake, it does its job well and have never had a problem coming to a complete stop when needed.
The Pedal
The original pedal is constructed on metal with groves that makes it comfortable and non slippery to all types of shoes.
Gears
The Tokyo Bike CS model comes with a 8-speed shimano gear set. It shifts gears very seamlessly and quickly. The display of what gear it is on is also very helpful as it can be hard to tell what gear you are on.
Weight
This is one of the most important factors as I have to carry the bike up two flights of stairs every day. This bike is under 12 kg which makes it less strenuous to carry up the stairs. I can easily lift it with 2 arms and doesn’t cause injuries.
Optional Accessories
Bottle Holder
The bottle holder is quite handy when going for longer rides where I need to carry water and replenish during my ride. The styling of this particular holder really compliments the overall style of the bike.
Kryptonite Lock
One one the most handy and light weight bike locks out there. Really simple and easy to use and transport. I have my clipped directly into the frame, however I have seen people simply just carry it in their pockets or hanging from their bags.
LED bike lights
This pair of front an rear lights are so useful when required. Due to its design, it is rechargeable without a cable and simply plugs into a USB slot to recharge.
The charge holds quite well and there is a lot of flash settings to customise from.
Verdict
This is one stylish bike and it really exceeded my expectations. It is nimble, light enough to carry up stairs, and just gives me joy to ride around in.
The bike costs £650 brand new, and is a hefty price tag. I think it is worth every penny and would happily recommend it to anyone thinking of riding to work in a more relaxed city bike.
2 Comments
This review is super helpful and love the design! I want to go and try it out for myself now, and see if the price can be justified with not having the disc brake and carbon fork you see in bikes of a similar price range!
Hi – thank you. It is worth a try – free to try at any Tokyobike store, and you can even rent them. In terms of price, guess you’ll be paying the premium for the design. It’s been a great commuter bike especially with the mud guards I don’t have to worry about the splashes before getting to work.