PM inbound shortly regarding stuff you asked about privately!
Regarding your first post...
You're supposed to ride on the road. I do, almost exclusively... and most people think I'm crazy. Pavement cycling, although generally illegal (except for certain marked sidewalks), is very much the norm. It is also crazy dangerous and you are liable if you hit a pedestrian. Don't bother - stay on the road!
Not visited Gan Well although I have popped into Iwai Cycle a few times - they sell/own Gan Well but rarely have much track stuff. I can happily show you the three or four good shops here, plus Gira Gira in Osaka (an hour away but well worth the trip).
KyotoLOCO is no longer running as of a few years ago, sadly. I see a number of fixed riders but there doesn't seem to be much organisation. The guys from Gira Gira get together often if you can get your bike to Osaka. I also know one Japanese guy here who rides fixed and lived in the UK for some time - he'll definitely hang out with you.
If you're looking to build a nice bike, Gira Gira is where I'd start. They have lots of used NJS stuff including frames. I have some spare parts, too - frame, BB, crankset, bars - you're welcome to have them at a knock-down price and build something off of them. Then take it home or sell it on (tricky).
I'll give you my details so we can get some good rides in while you're here - always looking for other fixed riders and it'll be a pleasure to show you the sights!
PM inbound shortly regarding stuff you asked about privately!
Regarding your first post...
You're supposed to ride on the road. I do, almost exclusively... and most people think I'm crazy. Pavement cycling, although generally illegal (except for certain marked sidewalks), is very much the norm. It is also crazy dangerous and you are liable if you hit a pedestrian. Don't bother - stay on the road!
Not visited Gan Well although I have popped into Iwai Cycle a few times - they sell/own Gan Well but rarely have much track stuff. I can happily show you the three or four good shops here, plus Gira Gira in Osaka (an hour away but well worth the trip).
KyotoLOCO is no longer running as of a few years ago, sadly. I see a number of fixed riders but there doesn't seem to be much organisation. The guys from Gira Gira get together often if you can get your bike to Osaka. I also know one Japanese guy here who rides fixed and lived in the UK for some time - he'll definitely hang out with you.
If you're looking to build a nice bike, Gira Gira is where I'd start. They have lots of used NJS stuff including frames. I have some spare parts, too - frame, BB, crankset, bars - you're welcome to have them at a knock-down price and build something off of them. Then take it home or sell it on (tricky).
I'll give you my details so we can get some good rides in while you're here - always looking for other fixed riders and it'll be a pleasure to show you the sights!