Originally Posted by
Tom the tank
Hi T-Mar et. al.,
I have a Sekine in desperate need of some love. The sn is Y2 0634. The bike is in a real state, having been spray painted twice. The components seem pretty entry level, Shimano tourney, fingertip shifters, 27" wheels etc. but the frame is quite interesting with forged Shimano drop outs and columbus lugs (I think). What I would really like to know is if the frame is butted chromoly or just hi-ten. Year and model would be interesting too. You seem like the Sekine guy(s), so I thought I would venture to ask.
All the best,
Tom in Montreal
(really need to post more so I can send private messages)
Here are some (bad) pics.
I would really like it someone could identify the tube set. I removed some of the spray paint with nail polish remover, but I've taken some colour out of the transfer stickers in doing so. I am sure the lower sticker reads Butted Tubes/Champion/Cro-Mo Steel. Still not sure exactly what that means. I pretty sure that it means Tange, but unsure if it is just the seat tube, main three tubes or everything, and what quality. I've read a bit about Champion 1-5 but don't see any indication of this on my Champion sticker. Also hoping that someone out there can ID the model. My optimistic guess is a SHT, but still unsure. Also an approximate date would be great.
I plan to strip the frame down and give it a new life. New paint and 700c wheels. Maybe FG, maybe just reuse all the original drivetrain. See what I can dig out of my junk drawer. I've been thinking a lot about steel randonneurs, and the Universe has answered.
It has been very interesting reading about the history of this Canadian/Japanese enterprise. I hope this thread never dies.