The "MARIN NICASIO SE" has undergone a significant transformation for the 2026 model year.

It has long been a popular staple in the cross-bike category, but this renewal brings positive evolutions such as expanded tire clearance and increased bolt mounts, as well as elements that may be polarizing, such as a change in handlebar shape.

It now offers expandability to cover not only city riding but also touring and light gravel, evolving into a bike that caters to riders who "want to enjoy their own time more than speed."

We will introduce the charms and challenges of the newly reborn NICASIO SE, along with a report from the exhibition.

[Addendum (Jan. 13, 2026)] A limited number of 2026.MARIN NICASIO SE models with custom all-black tires have arrived!

▼Click here for detailed article on 2026.MARIN NICASIO SE Black Tire Limited
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2026.MARIN NICASIO SE (Marin｜Nicasio SE)

[Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price] ¥87,890 (tax included)
[Colors (all 4 colors)] Mat Black, Gloss Starry Blue Sky, Mat Brown / Grey, Mat Dark Mocha
[Sizes (approximate height)] 50 (155-165cm), 52 (160-170cm), 54 (165-175cm), 56 (175-185cm)

Evolution: A Balance Between City Riding and Activity

The 2026 "MARIN NICASIO SE" has undergone a complete transformation.

This model has been a long-time staple cross bike for our shop, but this major renewal is not straightforward, and to be honest, my first impression was "it's difficult to evaluate."

Three points are particularly noteworthy: "expanded tire clearance," "increased bolt mounts," and "changed handlebar shape."

The first two are improvements that can be straightforwardly appreciated as evolution, but the handlebar change is a point that "might divide opinions."

Expanded Tire Clearance

The old model supported wide road-plus tires in the 650B standard, but for 700C, it was limited to about 35c, which was a bit insufficient for gravel use.

The 2026 model improves on this, supporting up to about 700x40c. This wider range of tire choices further expands the riding possibilities. (We plan to confirm even wider tires once the actual bike arrives).

For those who use it as a cross bike, customizing with significantly different tire standards is not very common.

However, for users who "want to enjoy it as a gravel bike," this expansion of tire clearance is a significant update that broadens the fields they can ride in.

Increased Bolt Mounts

Next, let's look at the increased number of bolt mounts. While not a prominent feature for users primarily focused on city riding, a significant number have been added compared to the previous model, greatly enhancing the freedom to attach carriers, racks, and various accessories.

With these updates, the NICASIO SE now offers significantly expanded versatility for enjoying activities as a flat-bar gravel bike, or "gravel cross," in addition to its traditional use as a cross bike.

Handlebar Shape Change

The handlebar has been changed from a traditional flat bar to a low-rise BMX handlebar. This raises the handlebar position, allowing for a more upright posture, making it easier for cross bike beginners to handle and offering a relaxed riding position.

On the other hand, an excessively upright position can concentrate weight on the saddle, making it prone to discomfort, and there's a concern that it might reduce riding performance.

While the frame has evolved towards activity, the handlebar gives the impression of being more "city-oriented & beginner-friendly." It's undeniable that this change is likely to be polarizing.

This change can be seen as a new attempt to further evolve the NICASIO SE, which has been highly popular since its introduction.

While it's a welcome evolution for users seeking comfort and expandability, there might be aspects that divide opinions among users who preferred the riding performance of the previous model.

Nevertheless, it's a model change that conveys the intention to "spread the joy of sports bikes to more people."

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The Charm of NICASIO SE｜Chromoly + 650B Creating "Freedom" and "Individuality"

The NICASIO SE is a unique presence among cross bikes.

It features a chromoly frame, which is flexible and durable, and adopts the 650B tire standard, similar to mountain bikes, making it versatile enough for city riding to various activities.

Considering Japanese road conditions, cross bikes with aluminum frames and thin tires are generally prevalent. In such an environment, the NICASIO SE, which adopts a chromoly frame and 650B, can be said to challenge the conventional image of a cross bike.

So, why did the NICASIO SE adopt a chromoly + 650B specification? I believe it's because they wanted to create a "cross bike that doesn't just end with city riding."

A chromoly frame is flexible and robust. It's gentle on the body even over small bumps or during long rides, and it's perfect for touring. By combining it with MTB-like 650B wheels, it can accommodate wider tires, allowing you to ride safely over city bumps and unpaved roads.

The result is a "cross bike that can handle both daily use and fun activities." This "extra degree of freedom" is probably why it's so popular.

Furthermore, the slender chromoly frame has a classic and stylish look. For those who think "an aluminum cross bike like everyone else's is boring," it offers a slightly unique option that allows them to express their individuality.

Of course, in terms of speed alone, it cannot compete with typical cross bikes. But I believe the true value of this bike lies elsewhere.

The charm of the NICASIO SE is being able to enjoy a relaxed ride on a little gravel path or riverbank without effort. It's a bike that I would recommend to those who "value their own time more than speed."

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Specifications Emphasizing Ease of Use and Comfort

The basic specifications of the NICASIO SE are 1x8 speed. It's a very simple shifting configuration. It requires no unnecessary operations and is intuitive to ride, making it perfect for those trying a cross bike for the first time.

Mechanical disc brakes are used for braking. They provide sufficient stopping power for city riding, and their simple structure makes them easy to maintain.

The bike is equipped with WTB 650x47 road-plus tires. These tires offer excellent cushioning due to their width, combined with good rolling performance for light and easy riding on paved roads, making them suitable for a wide range of uses from city commuting to weekend cycling.

The dedicated kickstand is also still present on the 2026 model.

The NICASIO SE's specifications are compiled into a simple and easy-to-handle configuration. The 1x8 speed shifting is intuitive and easy to operate, and the mechanical disc brakes ensure sufficient stopping power and ease of maintenance for city riding.

Furthermore, WTB's 650x47 road-plus tires combine cushioning and smooth rolling, supporting comfortable riding from urban areas to weekend cycling.

While not flashy, it can be said to be a well-balanced specification that beginners can easily enjoy.

Specification Table

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Summary｜"NICASIO SE" - A Cross Bike for Enjoying Your Own Ride

The NICASIO SE has undergone a major transformation for the 2026 model year. The expanded tire clearance and increased bolt mounts have given it the versatility to handle not only city riding but also touring and gravel activities.

On the other hand, the change in handlebar shape and riding position may be a polarizing point, and those seeking sports bike performance might find it lacking.

Nevertheless, for those who "want to enjoy their own time more than speed," the NICASIO SE is the perfect bike. It's a bike that offers a free and relaxed ride, from daily city use to riverbanks and light gravel.

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