[tokyobike Collaboration] Use it as a bag-in-bag, or carry it on its own.

〈REN × tokyobike〉
Collaboration Items

“Oh, wow—this lightness. It feels completely different.”

Mr. Tashiro serves as Vice President of tokyobike, a Japanese bicycle brand founded on the idea of “enjoying the city.” Through a wide range of initiatives, he helps shape and communicate the brand’s worldview.

It was through REN’s POP UP STORE at TOKYOBIKE TOKYO in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, Tokyo—running through June 21, 2026—that the idea for this collaboration first took shape.

fter spending some time with REN’s new Basic Nylon series, he casually let slip the words that opened this story.

“It has a smooth, subtle sheen that works well even with more refined outfits. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself wanting things that don’t feel overly outdoorsy all the time. I actually bought this shirt recently, and it goes really well with it. I like it a lot.”

What Changes, and What Stays the Same

Mr. Tashiro has always favored a relaxed, casual style. The bags he carried were often rooted in the outdoor world, and he was initially drawn to their sturdy construction. Yet after encountering ultralight materials, it was their effortless lightness that won him over.

“But there’s one brand I’ve always loved.”

FREITAG, the Swiss brand known for creatively upcycling discarded materials such as truck tarpaulins into new products.

“I like the concept behind it, and I love how you can just throw all your gear into it for camping and use it without worrying too much. More than anything, the colors and patterns look great—they have a really strong presence.”

Its durability and toughness were part of the appeal, but for daily use like commuting, the weight became more noticeable with age. Over time, he found himself shifting toward smaller accessories such as pouches and card holders.

Without letting go of the belief that “what you love is what you love,” he has found a balance between personal preference and practicality, choosing what fits each moment.

It was a perspective that resonated with me deeply.

 

As a Bag-in-Bag, or on Its Own.

The item he found himself particularly drawn to was the Rise Sling.

“I’ve been carrying a sacoche quite often lately, and this has been incredibly convenient.”

Most of the time, he uses it as a bag-in-bag. When stepping out to a convenience store or for a short errand, he simply takes it out and carries it on its own. “The Rise Sling is lightweight, soft, and free from unnecessary details, so it does exactly what I want it to do,” he said with a smile.

Among the various colors considered, khaki gray was the one Mr. Tashiro instantly responded to with, “This is it.” With a quiet balance of masculine depth and the softness of camel, it offers a gentle and beautifully nuanced tone.

When the strap is tightened close to the body, it feels almost like an extension of yourself. Not surprisingly, it pairs exceptionally well with cycling.

“I think it would work really well worn under a coat in the colder months. It’s also nice that everything stays easy to reach.”

While REN and tokyobike work with entirely different products, he believes there is a great deal of common ground between the two brands.

“It’s the same with our bicycles. We’re not adding unnecessary layers of value. The products are made with sincerity, and the price simply reflects what is needed to make them well. Those are the kinds of things I find myself wanting to buy—things that feel honest and make sense.”

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REN POP UP STORE

Lightness and texture.
Alongside the expression of well-worn leather.

2026.05.20 wed – 06.21 sun

 

At this POP UP STORE, we are also displaying bags that have been used over several years. Scuffs, sheen, and shifts in color—each piece reveals the unique character that only well-worn leather can develop over time.

Alongside REN’s signature goatskin and pigskin collections, we will also introduce the new “Urban Hike” series for Spring / Summer 2026.

We hope you’ll take this opportunity to experience the charm of REN’s bags and materials for yourself.

 

TOKYOBIKE TOKYO

Address: 3-7-2 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0022, Japan

Hours:
Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed: Monday & Tuesday

URL: https://tokyobike.com/tokyobike_tokyo/

Instagram: ＠tokyobiketokyo