In the mid to late 80s in the SF Bay area, Firenze bikes were given away with purchase of a stereo at consumer electronics store in Daly City. I was wrenching at the time, so we saw a few of those come in for repair. Truly awful stuff, made cheaply in Taiwan, destined for short lives and then the landfill. I can't say that's what you have, but it's a possibility.

Neal