Centurion Serial Number Database
08-05-10, 03:21 PM
#1026
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That bike will definitely get stolen if it goes to college.
It should either be locked in your house or in your sight.
56cm, and I'd hire a crew...
Welcome to the forum, and of course, we note you are a long-time Centurionut.
Amazing bike, excellent narrative.
I was just telling txvintage about this "idea" I had to upgrade an older 27" frame to modernity, without sacrificing aesthetics....
Your bike would be a killer guide to how good it could look...
Now....to find me an "orange crate".........
It should either be locked in your house or in your sight.
56cm, and I'd hire a crew...
Welcome to the forum, and of course, we note you are a long-time Centurionut.
Amazing bike, excellent narrative.
I was just telling txvintage about this "idea" I had to upgrade an older 27" frame to modernity, without sacrificing aesthetics....
Your bike would be a killer guide to how good it could look...
Now....to find me an "orange crate".........
Last edited by RobbieTunes; 08-05-10 at 07:37 PM.
08-05-10, 04:10 PM
#1027
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m looking for my first road bike and Im interested in the Ironman models, but have some questions.
What years had the purple/yellow paint scheme, and were they always the "expert" model?
Only the 1987 and 1988 Experts were available with that scheme, and they are virtually indistinguishable, though you may find Wolber rims on the 87 and Arayas on the 88. That's the only way I know of telling them apart, and my guess is that it was one entire production run of that color, as far as frames. Yes, always the Expert model.
Is the "master" much better than the "expert"?
Probably a matter of opinion. The frames were identical, as were the rest of the non-group components.
The difference in components was basically 105 for the Expert vs. 600 for the Master.
In 1985 and 1986, there was only one, the standard Ironman, and some say the '86 frame has a smoothness unmatched later on.
In 1987, with the Master's 600EX vs. the Expert's 105, the difference wasn't as great, in my book.
In 1988, with the 6400 series (the 600 "tricolor" for the 3 little colored squares on the logo), the difference was more noticeable. Still, some preferred the 105's single pivot calipers and polished appearance.
In 1989, the Expert had Suntour GPX, a nice looking and light group, vs. the Master's 600 tricolor. Both worked well and were great values, but the GPX shifters matched only Suntour cassettes due to differences in spacing.
In 1989, the frame geometry changed slightly, but it seemed only to affect the black Expert frames. Those whom own one of each will generally tell you there is a difference in how the black Expert rides compared to the faded Expert and the Master models. Bicycle Guide magazine noted the geometry change, but didn't really notice it in their test model (a blue smoked fade Expert). They never got their hands on the black Expert to see what the real difference was. The black Expert seems to have a more aggressive ride to it; the faded Masters of the era, and the blue smoked Expert, seem to be a little smoother.
I also like the red frame with the white headtube and seattube like the bike a few posts back. Ive also seen yellow or teal instead of red. What years had these paint schemes?
1986 had the red/white in the standard Ironman, 1987 had a red/white Ironman Expert.
1987 had the teal/white in the Ironman Master. 1987 had the yellow/white Ironman Expert.
I've not seen examples of these outside those time frames, but remember, it was the 80's; nothing was set in stone.
Ive seen these bikes labeled as both "expert", "master", and with no other designation i believe. Are the ones with no designation (which came before there were seperate "expert" and "master" models I understand) equivalent to an expert or master? See above. Some feel the 1985 and 1986 two-tone models were the smoothest Ironman frames. The red/white 86 with the red aero DiaCompe hoods and the copper-colored Araya rims is one of the classier looking bikes of the era, and rides very, very nice. You could call them "equivalent," but componentry changed quite a bit from 1985 to 1989, as far as precision, reliability, and ease of function, so that's a toss-up. Relative to their price point and what everyone else was offering for the same price, they were excellent values. Today, they still are.
Thanks. This forum is a great resource!
What years had the purple/yellow paint scheme, and were they always the "expert" model?
Only the 1987 and 1988 Experts were available with that scheme, and they are virtually indistinguishable, though you may find Wolber rims on the 87 and Arayas on the 88. That's the only way I know of telling them apart, and my guess is that it was one entire production run of that color, as far as frames. Yes, always the Expert model.
Is the "master" much better than the "expert"?
Probably a matter of opinion. The frames were identical, as were the rest of the non-group components.
The difference in components was basically 105 for the Expert vs. 600 for the Master.
In 1985 and 1986, there was only one, the standard Ironman, and some say the '86 frame has a smoothness unmatched later on.
In 1987, with the Master's 600EX vs. the Expert's 105, the difference wasn't as great, in my book.
In 1988, with the 6400 series (the 600 "tricolor" for the 3 little colored squares on the logo), the difference was more noticeable. Still, some preferred the 105's single pivot calipers and polished appearance.
In 1989, the Expert had Suntour GPX, a nice looking and light group, vs. the Master's 600 tricolor. Both worked well and were great values, but the GPX shifters matched only Suntour cassettes due to differences in spacing.
In 1989, the frame geometry changed slightly, but it seemed only to affect the black Expert frames. Those whom own one of each will generally tell you there is a difference in how the black Expert rides compared to the faded Expert and the Master models. Bicycle Guide magazine noted the geometry change, but didn't really notice it in their test model (a blue smoked fade Expert). They never got their hands on the black Expert to see what the real difference was. The black Expert seems to have a more aggressive ride to it; the faded Masters of the era, and the blue smoked Expert, seem to be a little smoother.
I also like the red frame with the white headtube and seattube like the bike a few posts back. Ive also seen yellow or teal instead of red. What years had these paint schemes?
1986 had the red/white in the standard Ironman, 1987 had a red/white Ironman Expert.
1987 had the teal/white in the Ironman Master. 1987 had the yellow/white Ironman Expert.
I've not seen examples of these outside those time frames, but remember, it was the 80's; nothing was set in stone.
Ive seen these bikes labeled as both "expert", "master", and with no other designation i believe. Are the ones with no designation (which came before there were seperate "expert" and "master" models I understand) equivalent to an expert or master? See above. Some feel the 1985 and 1986 two-tone models were the smoothest Ironman frames. The red/white 86 with the red aero DiaCompe hoods and the copper-colored Araya rims is one of the classier looking bikes of the era, and rides very, very nice. You could call them "equivalent," but componentry changed quite a bit from 1985 to 1989, as far as precision, reliability, and ease of function, so that's a toss-up. Relative to their price point and what everyone else was offering for the same price, they were excellent values. Today, they still are.
Thanks. This forum is a great resource!
If this is going to be your first road bike, I wouldn't get too hung up on the componentry/geometry changes throughout the years. Maybe the 86 is smoother, maybe the 89 is more aggressive, maybe the Shimano 600 parts are better than Suntour GPX...... whatever. It's your first road bike and I guarantee you won't be able to tell much if any difference between the models until you've been riding one for quite awhile.
That's not to say Robbie hasn't given you a lot of good information here, but it's just that a lot of information. Don't get too caught up in it. For a first road bike, even a Le Mans from the late 80s would suit your needs fine and would be worth upgrading to nicer parts if you ever see the need (you may not).
My advice? Pick the Ironman with the prettiest colors.
08-06-10, 08:44 AM
#1029
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Yes Force, that is a cork to keep the water out. The bike was my only transportation to school, especially when the local transit went on strike. Rode that bike in rain but sprayed it down with WD40 immediately. There’s no rust on it. The fork and bottom bracket were removed to spray LPS3 inside the tubes, leaving a gummy but protective barrier from moisture. For the paint, borrowed a lot of Blue Coral car wax from my brother to keep the paint from fading.
The bike was never crashed though I ran into joggers and got bounced off a bus once, no harm or foul to either party but a few choice words in parting from both sides.
I’m looking into a local bike co-op that builds junkers cheap or most likely he will take his MTB with him. I always wanted to pass this on to one of my boys but found out from many it might be a bad idea. Maybe I’ll keep it for him until he graduates, the bike is way too small for me to ride.
Serial number ifor the database is M5F0325
The bike was never crashed though I ran into joggers and got bounced off a bus once, no harm or foul to either party but a few choice words in parting from both sides.
I’m looking into a local bike co-op that builds junkers cheap or most likely he will take his MTB with him. I always wanted to pass this on to one of my boys but found out from many it might be a bad idea. Maybe I’ll keep it for him until he graduates, the bike is way too small for me to ride.
Serial number ifor the database is M5F0325
08-09-10, 03:16 AM
#1030
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Hi, first time posting. Was wondering if anyone has heard of or has any information on a Centurion Nippon.
I bought it here in Sweden a few months back.
Serial Number is WAK18623B. Has an Infininty CRO MO tapered double butted tubing. TANGE Made in Japan sticker on the frame.
Not sure if the parts are original but they are Black Dia Compe brakes, Sugino Cranks and Shimano 600
derailer.
The color looks like it was originally a florescent yellow and the brakes and head stem ? are black.
Thanks in advance for any information.
I bought it here in Sweden a few months back.
Serial Number is WAK18623B. Has an Infininty CRO MO tapered double butted tubing. TANGE Made in Japan sticker on the frame.
Not sure if the parts are original but they are Black Dia Compe brakes, Sugino Cranks and Shimano 600
derailer.
The color looks like it was originally a florescent yellow and the brakes and head stem ? are black.
Thanks in advance for any information.
08-09-10, 05:37 AM
#1031
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Never heard of that one, and welcome to the forum. European offerings by Centurion had different names, but were similar bikes to models here. Infinity tubing could well mean early 80's Lemans or Lemans RS, and the brakes and cranks are consistent with that. If the shifters and/or derailluers are Suntour, I'd go with a Lemans model or maybe a Pro. Pictures would sure help.
08-09-10, 01:33 PM
#1032
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WANTED: Suntour downtube shifter and cable guide
I'm converting my single-speed Centurion Semi-Pro back to "Normal" with gears, looking for Downtube clamp-on shifter and a cable housing guide would prefer Suntour parts. Attached photo for cable guide example. THANKS!!
08-10-10, 06:37 PM
#1033
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Elite RS Tange 2 Shimano 600 KG510224. Not sure if that is a 1 or a space.
And bike as it sold to a happy tri-in-training custumer. Adjusted to her specs. (The seat and stem)
She test rode it on a 60 mile ride.
And bike as it sold to a happy tri-in-training custumer. Adjusted to her specs. (The seat and stem)
She test rode it on a 60 mile ride.
Last edited by curbtender; 09-28-10 at 07:18 AM. Reason: add picture
08-11-10, 03:06 AM
#1034
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ive started a thread in the classic & vintage forum.
but ofcourse the serialnr came up so i tought i post i here aswell
serialnr is WAK17298G
link to my other thread along with some photos: https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...L-Computerized
but ofcourse the serialnr came up so i tought i post i here aswell
serialnr is WAK17298G
link to my other thread along with some photos: https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...L-Computerized
08-15-10, 09:04 AM
#1035
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I just acquired this Super Le mans.
I dont know much, if anything about it. I found a scan of the 79 catalog on here and I believe that this bike is older 77-78? The frame has some surface rust and is pretty scratched up. I have never painted a bike before, and this one has me curious on testing my skills.
All of the hardware is there and in serviceable condition(the chain-guard has a small wow in it.. nothing that cant be straightened though).
I dont know much, if anything about it. I found a scan of the 79 catalog on here and I believe that this bike is older 77-78? The frame has some surface rust and is pretty scratched up. I have never painted a bike before, and this one has me curious on testing my skills.
All of the hardware is there and in serviceable condition(the chain-guard has a small wow in it.. nothing that cant be straightened though).
08-15-10, 01:46 PM
#1038
Senior Member
The peeling Centurion decals reminds me of my 1977 Pro Tour. That's a really nice bike.
08-16-10, 07:46 AM
#1039
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I don't know the year, but everything pretty much points to late 70's. The frame is a smooth one. Well lubed and adjusted, the running gear is just fine today. The upgrade to bar ends means the owner liked what he had and knew what he was doing; brakes good for about anything. You could load it up and tour with ease, or strip it down and keep up with anyone on more modern stuff.
08-16-10, 08:26 AM
#1040
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FYI, https://raleigh.craigslist.org/bik/1901319153.html
80's Centurion Ironman Expert Dave Scott edition bicycle. Sweet 80's paint job. This bike is an XL frame ~63cm. I'm 6'1" and I can ride it fine. All original Shimano components less the saddle and comes with some classic Look clip in pedals. Could use some handle bar tape, new brake pads, tires, and a tune up.
80's Centurion Ironman Expert Dave Scott edition bicycle. Sweet 80's paint job. This bike is an XL frame ~63cm. I'm 6'1" and I can ride it fine. All original Shimano components less the saddle and comes with some classic Look clip in pedals. Could use some handle bar tape, new brake pads, tires, and a tune up.
- Location: Mebane, NC
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08-16-10, 08:32 AM
#1041
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^^^ Wow, my size even. If it weren't on the other side of the world, I would be looking into that. I used to watch Crockett and Tubbs all the time.
08-16-10, 07:14 PM
#1042
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I can facilitate. Shipping, in pieces, probably $50 or so. I've never shipped an frame for a giant.
Oh, and the final incarnation of an Ironman Carbon. It's been Ergo'd (R one broke) and 2x10 with DT shifters, but I picked up some wheels, Ultegra stuff, and thought "what the heck..."
Oh, and the final incarnation of an Ironman Carbon. It's been Ergo'd (R one broke) and 2x10 with DT shifters, but I picked up some wheels, Ultegra stuff, and thought "what the heck..."
Last edited by RobbieTunes; 08-17-10 at 11:22 AM.
08-19-10, 05:17 AM
#1043
Full Member
Does anyone know the deal with this bike? Couldn't find anything on google.
https://honolulu.craigslist.org/mau/bik/1904528267.html
Centurion Triathlon Bike - $250 (Haiku)
Date: 2010-08-17, 1:31PM HST
Reply to: sale-a9qph-1904528267@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Great condition Centurion Hellriegel tri-bike.
French Rigida wheels, Shimano Ultegra shifting.
650 tires. This bike originally cost $2800-- nice
ride-- especially for the flats in windy Maui.
The frame is aluminum-- 54-55 size.
Mahalo!
julie
575-2236
p.s. I also have a CycleOps fluid trainer for sale/$100.
https://honolulu.craigslist.org/mau/bik/1904528267.html
Centurion Triathlon Bike - $250 (Haiku)
Date: 2010-08-17, 1:31PM HST
Reply to: sale-a9qph-1904528267@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Great condition Centurion Hellriegel tri-bike.
French Rigida wheels, Shimano Ultegra shifting.
650 tires. This bike originally cost $2800-- nice
ride-- especially for the flats in windy Maui.
The frame is aluminum-- 54-55 size.
Mahalo!
julie
575-2236
p.s. I also have a CycleOps fluid trainer for sale/$100.
- Location: Haiku
- it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
08-19-10, 07:29 AM
#1044
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I haven't a clue on that one. Not one of the WSI-imported Centurions, and the age of it appears to be well after Centurion/WSI became Diamondback and and even well after that.
08-19-10, 08:00 AM
#1045
Learning to Roll
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Does anyone know the deal with this bike? Couldn't find anything on google.
https://honolulu.craigslist.org/mau/bik/1904528267.html
Centurion Triathlon Bike - $250 (Haiku)
Date: 2010-08-17, 1:31PM HST
Reply to: sale-a9qph-1904528267@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Great condition Centurion Hellriegel tri-bike.
French Rigida wheels, Shimano Ultegra shifting.
650 tires. This bike originally cost $2800-- nice
ride-- especially for the flats in windy Maui.
The frame is aluminum-- 54-55 size.
Mahalo!
julie
575-2236
p.s. I also have a CycleOps fluid trainer for sale/$100.
https://honolulu.craigslist.org/mau/bik/1904528267.html
Centurion Triathlon Bike - $250 (Haiku)
Date: 2010-08-17, 1:31PM HST
Reply to: sale-a9qph-1904528267@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Great condition Centurion Hellriegel tri-bike.
French Rigida wheels, Shimano Ultegra shifting.
650 tires. This bike originally cost $2800-- nice
ride-- especially for the flats in windy Maui.
The frame is aluminum-- 54-55 size.
Mahalo!
julie
575-2236
p.s. I also have a CycleOps fluid trainer for sale/$100.
- Location: Haiku
- it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
08-21-10, 04:43 PM
#1046
Riding like its 1990
Time to bump this to the top again.
Just picked up a 47cm Centurion Ironman Expert - traditional style frame.
Small little bike for a 700c wheel.
Should clean up nicely and hopes to make it to a decent home. Guess the LBS will see me once again... all I ever need when I walk in is cable and housing, ha ha.
Just picked up a 47cm Centurion Ironman Expert - traditional style frame.
Small little bike for a 700c wheel.
Should clean up nicely and hopes to make it to a decent home. Guess the LBS will see me once again... all I ever need when I walk in is cable and housing, ha ha.
Last edited by thenomad; 08-21-10 at 05:11 PM.
08-21-10, 06:26 PM
#1049
Learning to Roll
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08-21-10, 06:35 PM
#1050
Riding like its 1990
Yellow! Great color. Looks great, you'll enjoy the ride. Just finished 50 on mine today. Actually saw another steel bike on the road today too. Brand new Specialized Allez steel. I didn;t want to burst her bubble and let her examine my lighter, cheaper, lugged Ironman.