In the period between 1772 to about 1978 I sold the Maserati bicycle in my shop the former Bicycle world in Lititz, PA. The retail range went from $125 to $700. The models were MT14 to MT2. The MT14 was a ladies mixte frame and the MT12 a 24' wheel youth bicycle with dropped bars. The lower the number the better the frame and component range. As I recall the base derailleurs used were Simplex, the cranks were cottered steel by Nervex and Solida. Brakes were Ballila, on the lowest models. Campagnolo Valentino and Velox derailleurs were used up to the MT7 range. As I remember all models used aluminum alloy rims and the MT8 and up used sew up tires. One of the models in that range was available with a triple (32-42-52) crank configuration. Steel cottered cranks and Ballila brakes were still used on these models. Frames featured chrome ends on the blades and stays but memory does not allow me to say what price range chrome was used. Somewhere above the MT6 range ($325-$375) Campagnolo record derailleurs were used. The balance of components were a Nervex crank and Universal brakes. They were supposed to introduce a titanium MT1 model but I never saw one or was able to confirm they produced one for sale. The lower end were as Roy Drinkwater stated were typical 1970's era bike boom bicycles. The upper end frames were Columbus tubing and finish was good but not super special. The paint chipped easily and the water slide decals were not clear coated. The logo was the same font that was available at a paint store craft department of the day.
I questioned the importer, Cycle Craft in Exton, PA. about the actual involvement of the Maserati family in the actual manufacture they seemed to want to skirt the issue. My suspicions were peaked when I noted that the carton they came in had a sticker in the side with the Maserati logo. Peeling back the loosen stickers on the bicycle cartons revealed the Olmo logo. Maserati never was a strong brand for me and quietly slipped away as the distributors lost interest in the bicycle business. Actually the quality and appeal to my customers could not stand up to the Miyata brand that we brought in to take their place. Say what you may about the Japanese invasion of the 70's they demonstrated that the customer demanded to, and would respond to quality and reliability in a heart beat. A lot of what I am writing is based on memory and may not be 100% so don't take it as pure gospel on the subject.
Rodney Moseman
Lititz, PA.