1978 Zebrakenko Storm
 

Finally got around to restoring a 78 Zebrakenko I purchased 7 years ago. Added a few modern amenities, replaced the steel wheels with alloy (27 X 1 1/4), Tortec Velocity rear rack, SKS longboard mudguards (what fun that install was.....), Velo Orange skewers, computer, etc. Chrome is courtesy of Blue Magic. The original paint was in remarkable condition when I purchased it, but some nail polish was required here and there. The hoods are original and in great shape. Definitely keeping the dork disc, but debating about the bash guard. It's original, and does serve a purpose when riding while wearing long trousers. It is slightly pitted though - Blue Magic can only do so much. All in all though, I think it came together well for a 40 year old bike. I have a couple of Zebra's, always liked them. The next project will be a bright red 1980 Storm, Going to use upright bars instead of drops.


https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...d139ae9ffd.jpg

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...546d47a970.jpg

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...4219106f31.jpg

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Beautifu job, appears showroom.

Looks to be a 5V, is that correct?

Mentioning as '78 was first year some manufacturers converted their whole range to 6V.

Shall look forward to seeing your 1980 when the time is right.

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5v or 6v, sorry, are you referring to the freewheel?

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Yes, thank you for the response.

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Very nicely done sir, I have always liked the head badge on those bikes, my second favorite after the Bridgestone Kabuki. I really appreciate the stock bash guard on my Motobecane Grand touring as it saves me a whole 5 seconds on rides to the farmers market since I don't have roll up my pant leg....:D

Thanks. I've seen other posts regarding Japanese steel bikes from that era as having a 'dead' feel. I must say I don't sense that with this bike. Perhaps it is because I otherwise ride steel touring bikes, but this bike seems very responsive. I have a 1977 Zebrakenko Wind I restored 3 years ago that feels a bit different, but I would still not call the feeling 'dead'.

I remember that light blue color on ZK's. When they were new, the blue had an opalescent shimmer to it. I like that the Zebrakenko bikes from the 70's had no brand decals other than on the seat tube. The decals on the fork and at the top of the seat tube say HT-4500, and are referring to the steel.

Always love seeing a Zebrakenko! I refurbished a 65cm Thunder model a few years ago and used it as an evening commuter to sand volleyball for the summer.
odd mix- hiten frame, but almost all aluminum components.

friction 2x5 shifting is fun for those 10min rides- its so easy to change gears with all that room and only 5 in back.

you did a great job on this Storm!

I agree about the headbadge. The gold and the matte black textured background made it really pop.