Kuwahara Grasshopper 1: The Retro BMX Bike That Brings Back ‘E.T.’ Nostalgia

The iconic BMX bike that propelled Elliott skyward in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 classic “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” is no longer just a silver screen memory. It’s now a tangible piece of nostalgia you can own.

Japanese mobility innovator Kuwahara has unveiled the Grasshopper 1, a 26-inch single-speed All Terrain Bike (ATB) that’s turning heads in the cycling world. This chromoly-framed beauty isn’t just a bike; it’s a time machine on two wheels.

Kuwahara’s latest offering is more than just a nod to their 1980s mountain bike heritage. It’s a modern reinterpretation that carries the DNA of the very bike that Thomas Frischknecht rode to silver medal glory at the 1991 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. The Grasshopper 1’s retro aesthetics and stripped-down design are a deliberate throwback, aimed at rekindling the raw excitement of the BMX era.

Crafted from 4130 chromoly steel, the frame retains classic features like a 70-degree head angle and horizontal dropouts. Kuwahara didn’t stop at just looks – they’ve equipped the Grasshopper 1 with their proprietary Twin Turbine hub and double-wall alloy rims, all wrapped up in 26-inch wheels. The single-speed setup keeps maintenance hassle-free, while Dia-Compe DC-980 cantilever brakes complete the package. It’s clear that Kuwahara has prioritized style and simplicity over cutting-edge performance metrics.

The Grasshopper 1 comes in one specification but offers three color choices. Pricing ranges from 132,000 JPY (about 884 USD) to 143,000 JPY (about 958 USD), depending on the chosen hue. While Kuwahara has yet to announce official retailers, this bike is poised to become a must-have for enthusiasts looking to capture a piece of cycling history. It’s not just a bike – it’s a statement, a conversation starter, and a ride down memory lane all rolled into one retro package.