Editor's note: Eric Aujero's Nagasawa, with vintage parts. Unfortunately, my photos don't do Eric's bike justice. I'll try to get someone else to take better photos! Eric works at Bicycle Habitat. Here's what he says about the bike.
"I believe it's from the mid 90's. It's got some vintage track parts on there like the Suntour Superbe Pro track cranks (167.5mm) and the high flange hubs. Nitto stem, handlebars, and seatpost. My favorite thing on the bike though is the very rare NJS-stamped dura ace headset, with the scalloped lock rings. They say you need the special headset tools to adjust them.
What do I use the Nagasawa for? Right now I only use it for commuting, it may see a track very soon though. It'll also get back to its motherland someday soon!
As far as how it rides, it as solid as a tank, yet very light and nimble. My daily ride is a C'dale, and it can't come close. I've owned a Mercian, a Surly and an old Cinelli and even those track frames believe it or not can't compare to the Nagasawa. I like to think of the Nagasawa as the Ferrari of track bikes. The craftsmanship, attention to detail and execution are the best I've seen.
I first got into track bikes as a messenger oh so long ago. I did that for about 2 years while I was in school. Back then it was possible to make good money if you hustled. now-a-days, you have to kill yourself to make half the money.
If and when I get out of this crazy business, I'm not sure what I'll do. I used to be a graphic artist but got very burned out of that. That's why I'm in this business. No matter what I do, I'll always be riding. If I don't ride everyday, it's almost like I get a chemical imbalance in my brain and I turn into an ugly person to be around. So for my sake and everyone else's sake around me, I plan on always riding."
