Kuwahara has revealed the Grasshopper 1, a chromoly-framed 26in singlespeed 'ATB' that harks back to its early mountain bikes.
While those bikes helped Thomas Frischknecht win silver at the 1991 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, the Japanese brand is better known for its BMXs.
The KZ-1 is one of the most iconic bikes in history, thanks to a starring role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
Away from the silver screen, the Grasshopper nameplate originated in the 80s, with this retro reinterpretation using standards and components fitting for the time.
There is only one spec level, but the three colourways will enable you to flavour your nostalgia accordingly.
It’s not clear where the bikes will be sold, but if you’re looking to pick one up, it will cost you ¥132,000 or ¥143,000, depending on the colourway.
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Extra trendy
Kuwahara calls the Grasshopper 1 an 'ATB', or All Terrain Bike, saying it's focused on around-town and light-trail work.
The frame features a classic double-diamond layout and, as you’d expect, its geometry is from a different generation, with a 70-degree head angle.
4130 Cr-Mo steel is used for the frame and fork, with external cable routing and horizontal dropouts keeping things period-correct.
It’s 26in wheels will likely feel like casters to many on technical terrain, but there's still a strong following in the #26aintdead crowd for whom this bike may seem perfect.
The wheels use double-wall alloy rims laced to Kuwahara’s own Twin-Turbine hubs.
A singlespeed setup is implemented, which should keep maintenance down to a minimum in and around town.
Dia-Compe DC-980 cantilever brakes are spec'd, which will slow you down eventually, but it’s not about performance with this bike – it’s a statement of style and simplicity that pays homage to the legendary brand’s roots.
For those who look back with rose-tinted glasses, the purple model features silver components, including the wheels, handlebar, stem and seatpost.
Just be sure to keep those shades on when the sun comes out, or prepare to be dazzled.
