Hi everyone,

I recently picked up a powdercoated trek frame decaled as a 330 Elance. I believe the decals are more or less accurate.

​​​​I am trying to figure out which year. The serial number (TML257563) indicates model year 1987, right? But the top tube measures 60cm c-c. Catalog says the 87 model was 58.5.

(I know model years don't always match manufacture years, but Vintagetrek suggests this SN is a 1987 model.)

Dropouts are forged, seat lug investment cast. The bottom bracket shell has a plastic cable guide.
I will post pictures after I finish building it up. But can anyone identify the model year based on this information?

The big issue here is that the 87 Elance was 531 main tubes, whereas the later 330s used True Temper.

I guess that's not such a big issue, but apparently I can't rest until we figure it out.

I guess my theory is that this is correctly decaled--a 1987 330 Elance. The dropouts, head badge, and SN all support this conclusion. Badge style changed for 88 models.

The TT remains 60cm, which means that at least in the case of some frames (perhaps related to production in the Merida factory), the catalog spec (585mm) is incorrect.

Can anyone help me determine whether this is more likely a True Temper or 531 main triangle?

I'm no expert but it seems that seatpost size might be a determining factor.

According to the brochures at the vintage trek site, the 1988 model had a 60.0cm top tube. Yours was probably built in 87, either as an 88 model towards the end of the year, or the longer top tube was implemented as a running change at some point during 87.