[CR]Re: Japanese Bikes

(Example: Bike Shops:R.E.W. Reynolds)

From: "David Novoselsky" <dnovo@ix.netcom.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Thu, 20 Mar 2003 07:43:41 -0600
Subject: [CR]Re: Japanese Bikes

The idea that there are few, if any, 'classic' Japanese bikes from the time period covered by our group is simply wrong. We are, perhaps, to wrapped up in the world view that if it didn't come with Campy, Stronglight, TA, etc and was not built from Italian, British or French tubing and assembled there (or perhaps here in the US from those components such as a Masi) it is simply not a 'classic.'

One of the finest bikes I ever owned, and would love to find once again today, was a mid to late 70s Nishiki Competition. SunTour components, fine Japanese tubing, and superlative build quality. The ride and response was matchless for it time, and the Sun Tour bar ends were easily the finest system, coupled with what I recall was a VGT or VGLuxe that could be had in what was then a contemporary bike. I recall my dealer had the PX available in my size as well, but a back to back left the French rival in the dust, and I left with a blue Nisihiki that day that was to remain my principal ride even when it was later burdened with a child seat to haul my son as a toddler to go for a ride with his 'Daddy'. (That toddler is now 23, and sometimes hangs back so as not to drop his elderly Dad too badly when he comes up from his condo in the city to go for a spin with his Pop.)

The Nisihki and many other Japanese bikes of the period, and their components, were true classics IMHO. I am only sorry my bike was destroyed in one of our moves about 15 years ago or I would still be riding one today.

Anyone have one for sale in a smaller size? Love to rekindle that love affair.

Dave Novoselsky,
Chicago, Illinois