Originally Posted by
nishiboy
Hi, I'm new to this forum and vintage bikes.
I was just gifted a Nishiki "Competition" that's been sitting in a Saskatchewan barn unused since purchase.
It's mint, even has the original rubber, bar tape, and water bottle (not sure I'll be using that though!).
There are a few scratches to the laquer and decals, on the non-drive side, probably from transportation, but minor.
Serial number is: CA00067.
It has a Shimano 600 group set, HKK chain, and "Dura-Ace" cable straps on the top tube, with 53/44 chain ring and 6-speed cassette (23/21/19/17/15/13).
It has "Sakai Custom" and "Road Champion" embossed across the bars, and "Custom" stamped on the front of the stem.
The pedals are Kyokuto "Top Run."
The seat post is aluminum with 6 flutes, no markings.
The headset locknuts have "Tange Industries, Japan" stamped into the metal.
The frame is double-butted chrome molybdenum (badge on seat tube)
The wheels are aluminum, made by Araya, Japan, 700C (14x622), and tires are Norco 700x25C.
I'd appreciate any information re: date/place of manufacture and desirability (I'm not looking to sell).
It almost seems a sacrilege to ride this puppy, but I really want to take it for a spin once we get a nice day.
I ride a Felt Z3 with a compact (50/34) crank and 12/25 cassette, so moving to a 53/44 and 13/23 is going to be an experience!
(The frame's a little dusty in some of the shots; I haven't had time to give it a good wipe down yet).
Well I'm no expert but I believe this is a 1981 Nishiki Competition. Most likely made by Kawamura Cycle Co. in Kobe, Japan. This would have been one of the higher end bikes in the lineup. What you have is really special. The purple paint is beautiful and once you give it a good detailing it will look like new. Congratulations on acquiring such a fine bike and enjoy riding it!