Originally Posted by
eschlwc
can any trek expert fill me in on this one?
what model number should i be using (412 or 414)? it looks like it has the 500 series component group. i've read it's an ishiwata frame, but i don't know much, like country of assembly (japan or u.s.?), and how these bikes are considered as solid or sought after tourers.
it has the "m" serial number and component dates of '79, so i'm guessing '80.
it's a pretty comfy bike for me with the square tt/st and longish stays. looks pretty good with my carradice zipped roll on there too!
-bill in seattle
First, that is a REALLY classy looking bike. It looks like most components have been upgraded- so the model designation (other than what the SN denotes) is moot- The Cyclone parts are higher in the food chain than the VX stuff and the Stronglight is a full on replacement.
If the brakes are still stock- that looks like your best bet in determining if it was a 412 or 414. 500
Q would be the 412 and 500
G would be the 414.
Just looking on the forum for people that have these 410 bikes- they seem to really LOVE them for a wide range of riding.
The only thing I'd want to change is using ratcheting shifters- but that's just because I like them.
I don't know if you've worked with those Cyclone FDs before- It's RIDICULOUSLY light and it works so well- it's got enough travel and a long and low enough cage that it works great on a 52-40-28 triple. The RD is also outrageously light and they're both just beautiful components.