Back in the day the bike model years were truly years. So a 1965 model bike would be shown at the fall dealer shows for delivery after the new year. This got a little wacky during the 70s boom as equipment shortages caused some substitution plus there were new models being introduced mid year. On top of this Shimano decided to update component groups twice a year so the derailleur we started the year with might be something else come summer time. Further confusion was added by say Bianchi which would build Frames at Reparto Corsa and then hold them until ordered for assembly so you might see bikes that had a frame which sat in a warehouse for a year or more. I remember Bianchi Gran Sport models that appeared with Sportsman derailleurs (when did the cease Gran Sport production?) My Dad bought a container of Louison Bobet branded bikes in 1962 or 63 and I am sure we had some left when we moved to our new building 3 years later. This has now changed with the new models showing up in the fall but I expect this is because the business is more year round. In the 60s were did 75% of our business in the 4th Quarter as Bicycles were still Toys that sold best at Christmas time.So that fact may answer the question as to why there were mainly ''Bike and Toy'' Bike and Lock'' and ''Bike and Mower'' shops and I can pick most any car lock faster then you can use your key.
BOB FREITAS
cool and gray in MILL VALLEY, CA USA