due ruote 

Very nice bike. Most of the Takaras I've seen have been low end.

Black everything sounds great imho.

Can't comment on the saddle other than to say it's not the prettiest I've seen, but if it has ti rails it's probably a decent saddle. You should care more about comfort than anything when it comes to a saddle. How does it feel?

i0s

The cutout is awesome on the kibbles&bits but I really want an older Concor or Turbo. I just think those 80s saddles would tie this bike together.

Any other period correct or vintage looking modern saddles come to my mind that would suit this bike? I don't particularly care for rivets.

due ruote 

Can't argue with a Concor. Sexy saddle. I like them but can't ride a Turbo. Original Flite saddles are great too - simple, light, and, at least for me, comfortable.

i0s

A quick shop in black:

tamaso206

Great looking bike! Congrats on the score, enjoy the ride!

i0s

Got this one by trading in the other. No cost!!! Not in perfect shape, but it gives me an idea of the actual saddle's comfort! It's a Concor Profil.

ashbaughag

If you strip the paint, the entire frame is chrome! not just the lugs.

Just thought I would add this to the thread since this forum has apparently become the best place to find info on the takara elitist. One was given to me after my mixte city cruzer was stolen. During the tear down I decided to strip the paint. So if you are a fan of chrome a 15 dollar bottle of aircraft stripper will do it. Was going to mask off the lugs, copper plate and pinstripe it, but not sure now.

Bianchigirll 

Actually the problem with simply stripping the paint off is that the chrome underneath is not meant to be seen. If you look closely at it you'll notice it has a rougher finish than the fork and luggs so the paint sticks to it. So now instead of a beautiful black Takara with chrome luggs you have a nameless dull chrome bike.

Please stop digging up old Takara post and spreading this bad advice.

ashbaughag

While I have no doubt that is true on many bikes, this is not dull chrome (same as the lugs) it was all chromed at the same time. A self etching primer was used to make the paint stick. The only section of the bike that needs paint is the bottom bracket where cable guides were welded after chrome. Any one concerned with longevity of chrome (it's only single plated I'm sure) or even soft metals that they would like to keep polished or at there current state of oxidation need to simply coat it with Permalac. It may not be for everyone especially if it is not stored indoors but it is an option.