Originally Posted by
metalchef87
T-Mar,
I mentioned earlier that I had gotten a Nishiki Custom Sport and gave the serial number, but I gave you the wrong letter to indicate the year. On a third or fourth look I noticed that the sequence went "K...I..." not "T". So this means it is an 89 correct? Could you tell me a little more about it...like entry or upper level, etc.? That would be great.
I believe what you have is actually a 1979 model. You mentioned 600 derailleurs, Dia-Compe brakes and a W in the bb shell. The latter is definitely more indcative of the 1970s as opposed to the 1980s and if the brakes are center-pull style, that would be additional evidence to support 1979. However, a set of pics would eliminate all guesswork.
It's definitely an entry level bicycle. Whether it's entry level or upper. entry level is a subjective call. I don't have the 1979 specs but based on the 1978 specs, I could go either way. In 1978 it was 7th in a 9 bicycle lineup. It appears to be identical to the bottom of the line Sport model with the exception of an upgraded rear derailleur and a cotterless crankset (with steel chainrings).