Originally Posted by
Hobbiano
I'd say it was an '84. The '84 has a rear brake cable stop brazed to the seat stays, and the '83 has a cable stop that hangs from the seat post binder bolt.
The rust inside the frame doesn't look too bad to me. I think just coating the inside with frame saver or something similar would be adequate. Touch up paint might be kind of tricky to get a match but a lot of people use Testors model enamel, mixing different colors to get a match. Or you can bring the fork to an automotive paint supply store and they can usually mix up a match and sell you a small amount for about $20 or so. You also need some primer.
I have two '85 610's, one is the same color as your's and the other is what Miyata called burnt sienna. They are well built bikes with nice components.
Good catch on the rear cable stop differences between 83-84, I had not noticed that.
My gut also says the rust is fine as is and just coat it. I live in Tucson, AZ so super dry weather overall and I rarely ride in the rain so I'm sure it'll be fine. I guess the bike landed here from New Jersey and I bet that's where most of the rust originated.
I looked into Testors colors and gonna give "Arctic Blue" a try. I'll report back on if it's a decent enough match.
That Burnt Sienna color is very nice!