Bike Check: Maki’s KHS Aero Track
We all know the famous trio that made 90s track bikes the golden era of collectibles. But next to the Ctrack, Pista Concept and GT, there’s always been that odd cousin that was in and out of the game at the same time. The KHS Aero Track with its many iterations, ranging from bendy seat tube steel frame, to oversized pursuit aluminum missile, is a bike that has a very special place in my heart. And on top of that, the silver “wiggly” version has to be my all-time favorite. So today, let’s take a look at Maki’s KHS Aero Track, and how this bike, is somewhat chaotic but in the best possible way.
First I want to thank Maki and her husband Takuho for making me discover the province of Shonan and taking me to, probably, the best sushi place I’ll ever try in my life.
Following #khsaerotrack on Instagram, I randomly discovered their account, and contacted them, asking if I could shoot some of their bikes while I was in Japan. I was always blown away by how good, and close to my personal style, the builds were.
So after some communication and several of the coolest coast-rides I had the chance to experience, we ended up all becoming very good friends! If you have the opportunity of getting out of Tokyo, Enoshima (in the background here) is a place you should definitely check out. Who knows? You might cross the path of a KHS or two.
But let’s get on with the bike! KHS Aero track lovers are usually closer to a cult than anything else, since I’ve rarely seen that much love and obsession for a frame-set. But! I can understand why… The weirdly bent seat-tube, the teardrop-shaped aero down-tube, the very upward geo and of course, all made out of true-temper. It’s a quirky frame with a lot of surprises. And I totally get why people are into it.
But what struck me the most with Maki’s build is her aesthetic and how I totally vibe with it. Mismatched colors and components, little fun details and just the right amount of bling, I’m all about that! Starting with the drive-train, and the classic Sugino-75 x ARNN Combo, this one being a limited edition for the Korean shop “Bikes Makes Me Happy”. Paired with very fancy Euro-Asia Gold medal cog to tickle your fancy. Finally, an excellent MKS RX1 pedal-cage combo, with the OG Fujitsu NJS single straps. You know it’s a real Japanese bike when you see one.
Detailed Parts List
Frameset
KHS Aero Track
Chainring and Cog AARN 47T, EA Gold Metal 17T
Crank Sugino 75 165mm
Seatpost and Saddle
Thomson Elite, Selle Italia SLR
Stem and Handlebar
Nitto UI 2 Stem
Simworks Getaround
Wheels Mavic Open Pro CD laced to Suntour Track
Tires GrandPrix 4000 23c Front
UltraSport 25c Rear
Wheels are also on point with this pair of lovely Suntour pro track hubs laced to Mavic open pro CD. A classic low profile style, can’t go wrong with that…
For the cockpit area, it’all about comfort, starting with these Simworks Getaround bars camped to a very cool Nitto Stem that I believe we don’t see enough. Orange grips for a pop of color and an upside down Chris King pewter a.k.a. the best shade of Chris King.
If you’ve never seen a KHS Aero Track in real life, you might not know how ridiculously tight the front and rear tire clearance is. 23c is the absolute most you can fit in this fork, and that’s probably why Maki went with a very thin Grand prix 4000 in the front, and a more skid-friendly and thicker continental UltraSport in the back.
Again, here, it’s all about the little things! Like that now over-hyped Kashimax frame protector, the PAUL brake levers, the sticker selection and placement! Everything is on point! A little Japanese amulet hanging from the saddle rail, and a convenient drink holder from Merbag USA, what else could you ask from a great commuter?
But maybe the silver KHS isn’t your cup of tea? Feeling more in a blue-purpleish vibe? Well no worries, next bike check will get you covered… But in the meantime, you can enjoy this one.
Is that…another one?
🎞: FilmNeverDie Kiro 400
📷: Nikon F100
