This time, we are featuring a custom Lit Trove commissioned by one of our customers.
This is a comprehensive build, with upgrades including front and rear racks, fenders, a double-leg stand, the handlebar and saddle area, tires, and even the gearing.
While preserving the appeal of the standard model, it combines everyday usability with a beautifully considered appearance, resulting in what we believe is an ideal city bike.
From daily trips around town to weekend outings, this bike is ready to make everyday life a little richer.
【Suggested Retail Price】¥52,800 including tax 【Colors】Fog Blue, Pale Gray 【Size / Recommended Rider Height】420 / 158-173cm 【Bike Weight】13.8kg
Our original Lit Trove takes inspiration from Japan’s everyday city-bike culture, adding a sense of small adventure to familiar daily rides.
Its 26×1.95-inch mountain-bike tires handle curbs and gravel comfortably, while the relaxed riding position, easy-to-use six-speed drivetrain, and classic styling make it approachable in everyday life.
Although the standard build keeps things simple by leaving off fenders and a basket, mounting points are provided throughout the frame, allowing stands, racks, fenders, and other accessories to be added freely.
From city riding to spontaneous local detours, it is a bike that brings the idea of “Dig Into Your Local” to life.
This custom Trove was commissioned by @bose_no_asobi, who is based in Osaka.
A passionate music fan, he usually rides a SALSA CUTTHROAT and enjoys an outdoor lifestyle that includes events such as OMM LITE BIKE and camping trips.
We are genuinely delighted that someone with such a playful, adventurous outlook connected with the concept behind this model.
The theme for this custom build was: to recapture the excitement of his student days, when he explored CD shops around the city by bicycle, and create “The Ultimate City Commuter Bike for 2025.”
Take a closer look at a bike brought together through an exceptionally thoughtful selection of parts.
RINDOW|TARUGATA VINTAGE STYLE GRIP (GUM BROWN) The oval-shaped TARUGATA grips have a pleasantly nostalgic character. They pair naturally with leather saddles and classic bicycles, making them an ideal match for this build’s overall theme. The translucent Gum Brown color looks especially striking alongside the leather saddle and adds warmth to the bike’s classic appearance.
Made from PVC, the grips are also resistant to becoming sticky with use, helping them maintain a comfortable feel over time.
Handlebar
GIZA|AL081 Handlebar This handlebar has a softer, more flowing curve than the standard bar. At a manageable 580mm wide, it remains easy to control through narrow streets and busy urban areas.
A 50mm rise and 59-degree backsweep reduce strain on the wrists and shoulders while creating a natural, comfortable upright position, making it well suited to longer rides around town.
Saddle
BROOKS|FLYER (HONEY) The FLYER is a sprung version of the legendary B17 from BROOKS, the British brand founded in 1866. It is a leather saddle that combines timeless styling with everyday practicality.
BROOKS saddles are known for feeling firm when new, but the FLYER’s springs provide comfort from the beginning. As the leather gradually molds to the rider, it also offers the pleasure of developing into a truly personal saddle.
Seat Clamp
DKG|Flip-Lock 28.6mm Gold This seat clamp features precise CNC-machined aluminum construction and a beautifully anodized finish. Its lever operates smoothly, allowing the saddle height to be adjusted without tools.
Because the owner plans to share the bike with his wife, the quick-release lever was chosen for convenient everyday adjustment. The Trove uses a 28.6mm seat-clamp diameter.
Tires
SimWorks by PANARACER|The Homage 26″ (26×1.95″) The Homage is a versatile all-terrain bicycle tire developed by SimWorks and Panaracer, based on Panaracer’s classic Mach SS cross-country tire. It combines a timeless appearance with capable riding performance.
Its tread uses lower center knobs and taller shoulder knobs, allowing it to roll smoothly on pavement while maintaining dependable grip on gravel and forest roads. It is a reassuring choice for everything from city riding to light off-road exploration.
Fenders
SimWorks by HONJO|Smooth 60 for 26″ These internationally respected aluminum fenders are made by Honjo Koken, a Japanese manufacturer founded in 1949. Used on randonneur bikes, tourers, and sport-touring bicycles around the world, Honjo products are often described as some of the most beautiful mudguards ever made.
Installation requires careful shaping, drilling, and trimming, but the finished result is exceptional. Fitted to the Trove, they immediately add a refined and distinctly classic character.
Pedals
MKS|XC-III Bear Trap Pedal (Titanium/Silver) This modern reissue by Japan’s MKS updates the legendary SUNTOUR XC-II, a pedal widely popular during the 1980s and 1990s. Its aggressively toothed bear-trap cage holds the sole securely and provides stable, confident pedaling.
A wide range of color options also makes it an excellent way to add a distinctive accent to a bicycle.
Chainring / Chain Cover
TIOGA|Chainring (for 5 arm / PCD: 110mm) The standard Trove uses a 42T chainring, but this build was changed to 38T because the owner plans to share the bike with his wife. The lower gearing makes it easier to start pedaling and improves usability through frequent stop-and-go traffic and on routes with more hills, making it a practical upgrade for daily riding.
ENE CICLO / DIA-COMPE|Chain Cover This aluminum chain cover was selected to prevent trouser cuffs from becoming caught in or marked by the chain. DIA-COMPE’s refined finish adds visual quality as well as practicality, helping to bring the entire Trove build together.
Front Rack
Pelago|Rasket (Silver) The popular Rasket from Helsinki-based Finnish brand Pelago combines a rack and basket in one practical design. Its stainless-steel construction provides both an attractive finish and excellent strength.
The basket makes it easy to carry everyday belongings, while the side rails can also accommodate panniers. A light mount is included as well, giving it the versatility needed for everything from city riding to touring.
Rear Rack
NITTO|R14 Rear Bag Supporter The R14 is a rear bag support developed jointly by RIVENDELL and Japan’s NITTO. It features a distinctive, softly lustrous dull-plated finish and durable construction from 9mm chromoly tubing.
Its strength makes it dependable when supporting heavier luggage, while its beautiful form adds both practicality and classic character to the Trove.
Front Light
KILEY|Eye Light (LM-016) Despite its compact size, this USB-rechargeable light delivers up to 300 lumens. Precise CNC machining and an aluminum-alloy body give it a beautifully finished appearance.
It complements the visual direction of the custom build while providing genuine everyday performance. The light improves confidence after dark without compromising the Trove’s carefully considered styling.
Rear Reflector
KILEY|Coin Reflector This KILEY reflector matches the front light. Unlike a conventional plastic reflector, it features a beautifully CNC-machined metal body.
It preserves the overall appearance of the bike and creates a consistent visual connection with the light, adding another level of refinement to the finished build.
Center Stand
ESGE|PLETSCHER This Swiss-made double-leg center stand has a rugged metal appearance that feels particularly at home on a chromoly bicycle. Its two-leg construction provides outstanding stability when the bike is parked.
When riding, the two legs fold together and tuck neatly beneath the left chainstay. They remain clear of the pedals and chain, combining dependable practicality with functional beauty.
BROOKS leather saddle and RINDOW grips add a warm, classic character
GIZA handlebar creates a comfortable position, while the ESGE double-leg stand provides excellent stability
SimWorks by Panaracer tires and Honjo fenders support riding from city streets to forest roads
Pelago Rasket and NITTO rear bag support increase everyday carrying capacity
KILEY light and reflector balance practical performance with a cohesive appearance
What do you think of the finished build?
The standard Trove is appealing for its clean and refined appearance, but as this example shows, customization can greatly expand both its practicality and its personality.
Lower-priced components can certainly perform the required function, but they may sometimes disrupt the overall character of the bike.
For this build, every component was selected with equal attention to practical use and visual harmony. The result is a reliable everyday bicycle with a stylish and beautifully balanced presence.
A Trove built this way can handle everything from daily commuting to relaxed weekend outings. Rather than chasing speed or distance like a performance-oriented sports bike, it lets you enjoy urban cycling with an easygoing state of mind.
Just imagining the possibilities is exciting. We would be delighted to help you create a Trove that is truly your own.
[BAG, WEAR & OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT] Cycle Hatena's annex in Marutamachi offers a wide range of bags, outdoor gear, and apparel that are perfect for touring.
We propose ways to enjoy cycling that go beyond just "riding," through fun outdoor goods that can be combined with bicycles, and items that can be used in everyday life. You'll find everything you need to inspire you to go a little further than you planned.
[BEGINNER & DAILY BIKE]
A shop where you can confidently choose your first bike. We mainly offer entry-level models and sports bikes (cross bikes, road bikes, etc.) that are perfect for everyday use.
"Technical terms are too difficult, I don't understand." We value the time spent helping such customers find the perfect bike for them, even if it means deliberating together.
We support you in choosing a bicycle that you can be truly satisfied with, even if it's your first time.
【BIKE & PARTS】
The Eirin Group's only sports bicycle specialty store. Consisting of two stores, the main building and annex (Cycle Hatena), we handle everything from new/used cross bikes, road bikes, gravel bikes, and MTBs to custom parts and maintenance.
Whether you're covered in mud on the weekend or just on your usual commute, find a bike that you can truly enjoy and express yourself with.
While we appreciate discussing specifications, we prioritize compelling stories and the "reality of use" to propose the perfect bike for each individual.