Japanese Bridgestone before and after

This bike found its way to Ohio from Kumamoto Japan. The bike shop from the fender sticker still exists! Chromo frame built by Bridgestone and sold as a Kamakiri Karukama.

I originally planned on basically restoring it but adding an internal gear rear hub. Once I saw how well the 700c wheels fit though I had to ditch the original 26×13/8 parts. Vintage Japanese bars and stem with a Japanese made Belt seat. The white chainring was an accident, but I think it works?

I wanted a step through for a while and it’s now my fav bike.

Debating on getting some 40c tires for it.