Originally Posted by
Torquemada
This is my recently acquired Nishiki Olympic 12 which, as far as I can tell, is all original. The serial number on the bottom of the frame is GE 05562. Based on other photo sets I've found on the net for Olympic 12 models, it looks very similar to models from 1983 to 1985, but the best available data (specifically, component dates) leads me to believe it is a 1985 model. Nonetheless, I wanted to submit it here for other opinions/input and so that it can be added to the database. I am particularly interested in any information about the apparently uncommon serial number format. . . .
Hi Torquemada, interesting serial number.
The format looks like that of a Kawamura built frame. If so, the "E" would normally indicate the frame was built in 1985. So a 1985 or 1986 model year, but for which market?
Your bike does not have the paint and decal schemes for a 1985 or 1986 USA market Nishiki. There were no Olympic 12 models in the USA in 1985 or 1986.
The OLYMPIC 12 label is the same as the 1984 model.
The Tange label is the same type used in 1985 and 1986 on many Kuwamara built models.
The headbadge is for 1983 USA market Kawamura built Nishikis (not 1983 Giant built). The headbadge is also the same as far Canadian market Nishikis of the mid 1980s.
As you noted there is no Kawamura label on the bike, which there normally would be for a USA market Nishiki from 1983 and on.
There is no stylized "W" on the bottom bracket indicating West Coast Cycle Supply Company.
I do not think that this Nishiki was made for the USA market.
In this forum and in other places I have seen this format of serial number four other times. This is the fifth occurrence.
I used to think that the "G" in the serial number was a mistake and it should be a "C" for a Canadian market Nishiki. I do not believe that any more.
I do not think this is a Canadian market Nishiki. There were no Olympic 12 models made for Canada, (edit) after 1982. There were Olympic models.
Canadian Nishikis from 1985 would have a "designed by Norco" label, usually on the non-drive side chainstay. Is there one?
So what does the "G" prefix stand for in this Kawamura format of serial number? Of the four previous examples of this format, two of the bicycles were purchased in Japan.
IF this is a Kawamura format serial number, I think the "G" stands for the Japan market, or possibly the Asia market.