…but really you are going to have to wait for the article to come out in the mag. What I can tell you is that it has been an amazing time: from visiting the hard end of it all (the Shimano factory), to meeting with designers, visiting temples and gardens, visiting cities, riding in densely wooded mountains, experiencing Karaoke Japanese style, eating some of the most beautiful food I have ever seen (and also some of the strangest food I have ever eaten), Japan has been a real eye opener. The mix of east and west is absolutely fascinating, and I think it is this combination that really gives you a true understanding of what Japan and Shimano is really all about.

Anyway, it is 11.00am nearly here now (3.00am your time) and I’m stuck in Hong Kong airport after my flight got delayed by over 12 hours…and we are on deadline!

shimano japan dirt trip