Originally Posted by
rbrech58
Many thanks T-Mar. With help of this list and closer inspection of a very subtle label on the bike, I have identified it as a Comp II. From the KI 20447 code - I denote that as a Kawanura build in 1981. But it does not completely match up with the '81 catalogue I found posted on Flickr. It's got Suntour Cyclone derailleurs, Sugino mighty crank, Dia-Compe side pull brakes with quick release, tire guards, drilled levers and gum hoods. The catalog says the '81 Comp 11 has Grand Compe side pull brakes. It squares with the catalog other than that discrepancy. The bike is a dark blue with brown lettering - a nice combination with my brown brooks saddle. I could be wrong about the price - but I know it took me two paychecks to secure the amount I needed on my meagre salary.
Gran Compe was simply a series of higher end Dia-Compe brakes. You may have Gran Compe. Photos would help determine what you have. Ignore the forum warning about a 10 post requirement to post photos, They will upload to a gallery album under your user name, where members can view them.
The difference between the Comp and Comp II appears to have been primarily frame fittings. The Comp used brake cable clips and clamp style shift levers, while the Comp II had brazed-on brake cable tunnels and brazed-on shift lever bosses. If it's a Comp II, then I believe it's a 1980 model manufactured in late 1979.
I've never seen brown lettering. I suspect it's their typical matt gold, which has weathered/discoloured.