Originally Posted by
juvela
From a technics evolution sense it is third generation. First generation had the stop for cable casing and steel pivot arms. Second generation eliminated the housing stop and pivot arms changed to alloy. Third generation was when the e-ring retainer appeared on the back of the upper pivot post.
True, there may have only been 3 generation but there were many variations within those generarions. Slotted vs. non slotted, the shape of the body change multiple times, then there is the addition of the protrusion on the front to strengthen the upper pivot. The e or C-clip as you mention (these were also added to the upper and low pivots at different times.
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1 Super Record bike, 1 Nuovo Record bike, 1 Pista, 1 Road, 1 Cyclocross/Allrounder, 1 MTB, 1 Touring, 1 Fixed gear