Tokyobikes

There are 3 cultures that will never let me down in their design style. The Skandis minimalist, pure style, German Functionalism with purist design rule of thumb and Japanese geek chic technology and calm, thoughtful, understated style.. ((we just won't talk about Hello Kitty and the general 'Street Fashion)... Anyway if you appreciate Japanese design and like bikes read on...

Japan has a self proclaimed "super cool bicycle company" tokyobike - and who am I to disagree? They have a brand new pop-up shop in Rivington Street and for the next 2 weeks will be running a free bike maintenance workshop.  They are even bringing over their head geek from Tokyo to lead the sessions. They have been created to show people how to avoid punctures and replace tyres should the inevitable happen.

The shop will be 'Popped' or open for 10 weeks and will be presenting the whole range of tokyobike models including some limited editions-eek!

Londonʼs Emulsion Architecture designed the interior of what was a printworks .They have designed a logo printed with a pattern created by the space inside the tokyobike bike-frame and you are welcomed by a ʻnorenʼ door-curtain/shop sign hanging across the entrance.

The in-store layout is simple and clean, echoing tokyobikeʼs brand ethos and as I mentioned Japanese design ethics as a whole and the bikes are hung against white walls to bring out the bike's vibrant paintwork.

The Bike

•The 650mm wheels have a finer profile than typical road bikes, reducing weight and allowing the rider to enjoy a smoother cruise.

•Tokyobike frames are built with Cr-Mo steel which is both stronger and more flexible than the aluminum alternative and results in a more comfortable ride and a longer lasting frame.

•Tokyobikes have compact, straight handlebars which allow the rider to maintain an upright posture, enabling greater command of the road whilst maintaining excellent control over the bike. Perfect for scooting around town.

Tokyobikes come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, colours and shades. We hope you enjoy choosing one to match your lifestyle.

Maintenance classes take place on:Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6.30-7.30pm

tokyobike will also be part of the London Design Festival. The tours will set off and finish at designjunction everyday in Holborn and be led by a design critic. The tours will take riders to interesting places and spaces across the capital and will stop off for lunch at designjunctionʼs pop-up café.

The pop-up is located at 54 Rivington Street, London EC2A 3QN

Opening hours are:

Tuesday - Saturday: 11.30 – 19.30

Sunday: 13.00- 18.00

Closing Date: 31st July 2011