Connecting people who enjoy rides.”Ring-Tomo” from TV producer Daisaku Kawase is none other than Daisuke Imanaka, whom you all know. He is the first Japanese participant in the Tour de France. I wonder what kind of rides he has been enjoying lately.
Name Daisuke Imanaka Job The first Japanese participant in the Tour de France. / INTERMAX CO.,LTD. CEO Hobbies Bicycle / Racing a go-kart Cycling Experience For about 45 years (since creating the cycling club in college). SNS Instagram @imanaka1 Facebook ＠d.imanaka1 blog ameblo.jp/imanaka11
1. What’s your beloved bicycle?
InterMax Ivector
2. What’s your favorite cycling route?
I like the area around the Fuji Five Lakes. The roads are surrounded by mountains such as Mt. Fuji, Mt. Yatsugatake, and the Southern Alps in all directions. The area around Lake Yamanaka has been developed since it became an Olympic road, making it a recommended route that can be enjoyed even with family members who are not used to cycling. Due to my job, I ride with various people, but on weekends, I often ride alone for 40 to 80 kilometers. It’s a time to seize freedom.
3. The most recent ride event you participated in and your thoughts about it?
Aso Panorama Line Hill Climb 2023. Normally, this route is a tourist road with a lot of traffic, but for this event, traffic restrictions are imposed, allowing cyclists and marathon runners to participate. The course is about 11 kilometers long. The event seems to have started with casual conversations between local residents and motorcycle police officers, making its origin quite interesting.
4. The ride event you’d like to participate in next and why?
Event in Hokkaido.
I’ve experienced the Tour de Hokkaido, although it’s been a while. When I was a member of a racing team in the past, I had the memorable experience of eating king crab at an inn during a course inspection, and it was incredibly delicious, haha. Places like Bergamo in Italy and around Lake Como are also great. While I’ve participated in the Giro d’Italia, these days, I’d like to ride for the enjoyment rather than in a race.
5. The most memorable moment in your cycling life?
Of course, it’s the Tour de France. When I participated while being part of an Italian team, I truly felt the reason why people around the world are enthusiastic about it. The starting locations vary each year, such as the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, etc., but the landscapes throughout Europe are incredibly beautiful no matter where you ride. The spectators, especially in challenging mountain areas, are particularly enthusiastic. They must want to cheer for their favorite riders who are pushing themselves to the limit. Receiving passionate cheers up close is truly special. There are also passes that exceed 2400m, making it quite challenging.
6. Your favorite cycling gear and why
Citric acid BCAA. There are various options, but lately, I’ve been taking them before and after rides to alleviate fatigue. Also, dorayaki. It’s high in calories and moist, making it easy to eat even during rides.
7. What does cycling mean to you?
A companion that helps balance both mind and body. When I was an athlete, I focused on running fast, but now I enjoy it in a way that suits my age. I find excitement in exploring adventures by riding on dirt (unpaved roads). It’s thrilling to ride routes that I haven’t experienced yet.
🚴♂️Introduction of the next guest.
A pioneer among Japanese riders, Mr. Imanaka. The “Ring-tomo” introduced by him is…
Shinji Iwanami, Cycle Tour Guide
Introduction by Daisuke Imanaka:↓ Introducing him from Mr. Imanaka’s recommendation: Shinji Iwanami is a cycle tour guide based in the Fuji area. Originally, he was an athlete in the Osaka region, just like me, and his sports massage skills are excellent. At one point, he awakened to the world of cycle tourism in nature. Since then, he has been primarily guiding tours for “Hoshinoya.” In 2023, he participated in the Gran Fondo World Championships in the age-group category.
