[CR] Sekai / Sekine connection?

(Example: Production Builders:Tonard)

Date: Mon, 17 Jan 2011 11:11:13 -0800 (PST)
From: "Greg Lone" <gwlone@yahoo.ca>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR] Sekai / Sekine connection?


Hi list. the recent thread on Sekai bikes led me to wonder about a Sekine I have owned since the mid 80's. It's from about 1980. Tange #2 tubing, Shimano 600 arabesque group, Tange forged dropouts, simple long point lugs. Serial # FU 02039 . I see the odd Sekine, but they are generally entry level. This one is definitely better than average {for a Sekine at least}, and quite a nice bike to ride. I get the impression that Sekine bikes were uncommon outside of the Canadian market. Anyone know the inside story? Are they built by Sekai, or is the similar name just a coincidence? Anyone have any info on the better quality Sekine bikes?

Thanks
Greg Lone
Langley B.C.
Canada