Ride it if you have it

Pulled from the garage every spring, ready to go, just as you remember it from last year. Brush off the cobwebs, a spider scurries from under the seat. Put some air into those 27" tires, a quick pull of the brakes to make sure they're still solid. That old Sekine comes out every summer, paint still colourful in the sun, ready to ride down the block, to the park, around the city and beyond if you've still got the legs. Sekines are best for riding.

Sekine RM-10, probably from 1981

Spotted this nice blue Sekine RM-10 out last Sunday, just before the official start of summer. Looks like it was taken right out of the garage and ridden down the street- original parts, not too much wear. It's rare to see a head-turner, higher-end model like this, especially in such nice condition (Shimano 600 group components, nice rims, seatpost, high-end Tange fork and frame). When I see a Sekine of this quality and condition, in my size, it takes a lot of willpower not to leave a note offering to buy the bike; but I realize that the bike is usually worth more to its owner than I'm willing to pay. I imagine that I'd always like to keep a Sekine in my house, ready to ride- and luckily I do have one. I'm still commuting a couple days a week on the old, tricked-out SHS frame; red, shiny, and faster than you'd expect. Those old 27" tires sure roll smoothly, and does anyone really need more than 10 speeds? That Sekine is a sweet ride, just wish it were my size!

Also, in case you were wondering- I am still selling copies of the Sekine Zine! I never expected to sell as many as I have, and am down to my last two copies left from the previous print run. Since orders continue to trickle in, I will get more printed soon. I also continue to collect any weird Sekine ephemera or stories, and I'd still like to hear from any factory workers (or managers) out there- so don't hesitate to contact me (rod of the flies @yahoo.ca, no spaces).