Originally Posted by
SteveB1961
I raced a Nishiki Ariel in the late 80's early 90's in Southern California. My brother still has the frame. Can't remember the exact model year, but it is a steel Cunningham design with low (traditional) chain stays. Serial number on down tube appears to be S880932 9. Would like to confirm its production year if possible. Many fond memories of that bike!
It's definitely a 1989 model, as that was the 1st year for the Cunningham designed Nishiki bicycles and the Ariel was upgraded to elevated chain stays for the 1990 model year.