Agke

I picked up this Fuji Design Series a few months ago, and thought I would post some photos of it and see if anyone has any info on the bike. I am particularly interested in what meaning, in any, is behind the symbol decals and the three-colored stripes behind the American and Japanese flags.













From what I gather, this frame was available around 1986-1988, and was sold as a frameset only. It was made out of Ishiwata 019E tubing, which seems to be some of Ishiwata's nicer stuff. This particular bike was originally sold out of the Hive Bike Shop in Peru, Indiana. The frame still has the Hive Bike Shop decal, and the rims have decals applied which read "HIVE BIKE SHOP" and "TEAM FUJI USA". It also came with a hot pink Fuji water bottle that looks like something from the late 80s.

This bike appears to have made it to me with the parts the original purchaser selected, which are higher-end Japanese parts. It had a Suntour Superbe Pro drivetrain, Nitto bars and stem, and Sunshine Pro-Am hubs. The rims are Mavic. The dropouts are stamped Suntour Superbe Pro.

I took it for a spin last weekend, and I was impressed with the ride. It felt like a good balance between quick handling and stability. I have been riding a Peugeot PY10FC, which is lighter than the Design Series, but I think I like the overall ride of the Design Series a little better.

Anyway, if anyone has any input on the origins of this bike or additional info, I would be grateful. Thanks in advance.

tugrul

Catalog pages.

Agke

Thanks - I thought there was a gap in 1987 when they weren't for sale, but that isn't the case!

ScottRyder 

Possibly the pinnacle of Fuji's hand built selection of frames over the years, the Design Series is THE one to have if you like Fuji's. The artwork/decals on the down tube, the small selection of symbols, the quality of the paint and chrome is wonderful, not to mention the ride quality. I understand (I hope someone can correct me if I'm wrong) that each family has a symbol or crest that it connects itself too. Each of those little designs has some representation or meaning in Japanese history. Perhaps the frame builder/craftsman(s) comes from a family that those decals identify.

Here's my Design Series:

https://vintagefuji.posterous.com/198...mpagnolo-super

Thanks for sharing. You don't see these very often in such good shape.

Scott

rat fink

So cool!

khatfull

Wow....and thank God it's 6-8cm shorter than I ride.

That's one beautiful machine OP...dayum.

Agke

Thanks everyone for the insight and kind words. It looks like it would be a good idea to show the photos to someone familiar with Japanese symbols and imagery.

JunkYardBike

Nice find.

My grandfather was born in Pee-roo, Indiana.

AlphaRed

Wow!! just Wow!! I lust after that bike.
Enjoy
Steve