dsbk

Hi,

Just a quick question about a 1981 Univega Gran Premio frame (I used the serial number, which starts with a J, to date the bike. It should be roughly equivalent to a Miyata 912, I believe). I bought this Gran Premio frame on Ebay and built it up and use it for commuting. I'm very happy with it. I noticed the tubing is listed as Tange Champion Double Butted. I was curious if this is considered Tange# 1 or 2? Or is it something totally different. Maybe T-Mar could help me out. Apparently Tange #1 is not recommended for people over 175, and I'm right around there. I do notice some creaking if I hit bumps and stuff. I don't want to strain the bike. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

wrk101

Tange Champion came in many grades, some straight gauge Tange 5 all the way up to Tange #1. I have not seen Tange 5 double butted, so you are probably up the scale from there.

Post some pics of the tubing decals. Many of the higher end Japanese bikes were typically Tange $2 or Tange #1.

dsbk

Thanks for the quick reply. Here's some shots of the sticker. No numbers listed, unless I'm missing something.

balindamood

I used to have the same bike and top out over 200#. You should be fine assuming you don't put 50 pound of baggage on it and start hopping curbs.

Enjoy it. It was one of my favorites.