Originally Posted by
JohnDThompson
...The fork crown on your frame does remind me of Japanese production, though. Is there anything stamped on the steer tube? Any rifling inside the base of the steer tube where it is inserted into the crown?
We've already been through this. It has a Tange fork from January 1982 and the post size (26.8mm) is also consistent with Tange. The serial number is consistent with a frame manufactured by Merida of Taiwan in 1981.
Originally Posted by
hoyc
...T-Mar, it certainly is possible it is an illusion. Upon second glance, although there are long chainstays (not a racing bike), the brake bridge clearance is not SUPER generous, thus I'm thinking this frame was designed for 700c. There are also no signs of canti-studs.
I still don't think it's (grand) touring frame. Typically they would have double eyelets on the rear studs and if it did have souble etelets, I don't think the previous owner would have removed only one set.
The most popular brand being manufactured by Merida during this period was Raleigh, so one of their models would be a prime candidate and the start of my search. Obviously not a bottom of the line model like the Record, but possibly an upper entry level model like the Super Course. It would probably have that combination of forged dropout with intregral hanger and eyelets, slightly longer wheelbase, relaxed angles, and a CrMo frame.