Hello fellow vintage bike enthusiasts,
To start, I would like to say that I just bought this bike this weekend from a guy that I fully trust and for not much money. I would guess that he is a member here as well, as he knows vintage bikes. Obviously, he was not out to swindle me and has been quite generous in prior meetings. When he bought it, he was told the make by the "original owner". The frame was also in exactly the condition that you see(no decals or holes for a headbadge) when he got it. I've contacted the person who I believe to be an expert on that particular make and he is skeptical. Those who saw the sales ad, please refrain from mentioning it.
Therefore, I put this out for you all to look over. What do you think? The frame is very dirty/greasy(rear stays especially) and spots have been spray painted(darker blue) at some time. In locations where the original paint exists, the spray paint is flaking off badly.
http://s969.photobucket.com/
Droupouts say "Shi..." but are scratched up and unreadable. I am left to assume Shimano. There are no water bottle brazeons. The lighter color of blue paint appears to be original with a darker shade sprayed on. Accepts nutted brakes and appears built for 27" wheels, as 700c barely fits with the calipers currently adorning it. Lots of room for fenders either way. Rear spacing is 125.
Seatpost = 27.2 ST = 60cm, c-c TT = 59cm, c-c Chainstay = 45cm, c-c Wheelbase = 107cm
Components are mismatched and probably not useful in this case: Zeus driveside crank and inner ring(not sure on outer) & unknown Sugino NDS crankarm Shimano light action RD Suntour RSX FD SR bar/stem combo Suntour barcons blackburn rack DiaCompe G brakes Kyoto pedal(right only) wheelset(added today and backwards, I know) was fitted to keep greasy chain off of carpeting(saddle & seatpost added by me as well).
If you need any more information or pictures, please ask. My guess, it is a lower-middle end offering of a decent name. Lugs appear to be decent, but seem a little sloppy. Seatpost size indicates decent quality. The weight for the "bike" is 21.2 lbs, as you see it.
Regardless of the make, I think this will make a grand commuter once repainted.
Matt Beecher Yorkville, IL
ps. Anybody have a nds, orphan Zeus crankarm to match this one? I haven't seen any indication of the length, which may be buried under grease, but I would guess 170.