I bought a Nishiki International this past Sunday that I thought was a Continental until some decal cleanup made International and High Tensile Tubing very apparent on one side and the seat tube. The serial number is KG10403. which makes it USA Market, Pre-1985 and the G must represent 77, as 87 would not be pre-85.
It has Japan etched on the frame, Suntour components, Sugino crankset, Dia Compe drop forged brakes, quick release front and rear wheels that have Suntour on the releases, SR Forged handle bar stem, Champion Cycle Pro handle bars, and a rear rack made in Switzerland. The only thing I see that is obviously not original is the seat; which is a Avenir Gel Comfort Plus with two springs. I can't make out the rims but the front one is light.
I paid 100 dollars for it this past Sunday; but naive me thought it was a Continental with Tange steel frame. I guess the solace I will take out of this is a new cheap aluminum or steel frame is a 100 dollars or much much more.
I will post some before pictures this weekend; and after in a couple of weeks when the tuneup is done.
Hopefully after a 125.00 tuneup and two tires, I will have a great bike.
Last edited by badknees; 07-29-14 at 06:54 PM.
Reason: Add a note about pictures.