Bike Check: Jaming’s Peloton
Throughout 2024, I noticed more and more builds following the same pattern. And I have to admit, even though it's not a new concept, the idea of a vintage steel track frame modernized with drops and brakes is becoming increasingly tempting as time goes on. So come with me, as today we’re taking a look at Jaming’s Peloton, so I can tell you why you need to build one of theses.
Even if it looks like your classic run-of-the-mill NJS track frame that you could spot all over Japan, but this one’s got something special—it’s lugless. This little detail, already makes it a rare find compared to the usual ones.
Peloton is one of the few NJS builders known for experimenting with lugless construction and occasionally using oversized tubing when not building for official Keirin races. Up front, you’ll find a track Wound-Up fork, replacing the original and switching from a one-inch threaded to a threadless setup. You’d be surprised how much stiffness is lost with a quill stem, so upgrading to a Thomson X2 was a much-appreciated upgrade, especially for longer rides.
This tasteful build integrates pretty much all the best parts from various eras. A Sugino 75 chainring pairs with an Omnium crankset. A chunky Chub Hub at the rear, of course laced to Velocity Deep V, and some adapted funky brake caliper mounted in reverse, because that what the cool kids do.
Like I’ve probably mentioned in a previous article, there’s something truly special about fixed gear road builds based on an NJS frame. As a big fan of neo-retro builds, I love seeing these frames get a new lease on life out on the road, beyond the few velodromes they’ve known. It’s like breathing some fresh life into these classics!
Detailed Parts List
Frameset
Pelloton NJS, Wound up Track fork
Chainring and Cog Sugino 75 46T, Euro Asia 17T Cog
Crank Sram Omnium
Seatpost and Saddle
San Marco Zoncolan, Nitto x T19
Stem and Handlebar
Thomson X2, Ritchey Comp Logic Curve (400mm)
Wheels Velocity Deep V laced to Chub Hub rear and Grand Compe Front
Let's go right into the cockpit with these 400mm Ritchey Comp Logic Curve handlebars, on which you'll find a pair of SRAM Single-Speed brake levers. I have tried them in the past, and honestly, the position of them is great, and they are totally affordable. I'm also a big fan of everything being on the same axis from the Zoncolan saddle, the top tube, all the way down to the drop bars. Everything is horizontal; no further questions, 10 out of 10 for looks.
I think everyone should give assembling one of these “fixed-gear-road-bikes” a shot, just to experience it. Long rides feel easier, and you can even tackle some fixed climbs while staying completely safe on the way down. It’s a different way to ride, a refreshing change of pace, and typically pretty easy on the wallet too.
So…When are you building one?
🎞: Kodak Color Plus 200
📷: Leica M6
📍: Saitama
👤: @jaming.ueda
