This is a head scratcher for me - my Miyata 215ST has one set of water bottle bosses. I always thought it strange that a touring bike did not come from the factory with the prvision for carrying at least 2 bottles.

John D.

I assume it was a marketing decision. For most years, the entry level touring model had one set of bosses, the mid-range model had two and the top line model had three. They probably figured that the people who bought the entry level model were not as serious and did not require as many fittings. The extra fittings would also be enticement to step up to the higher models. However, there is a benefit to vintage buyers. It makes it easier to determine the model, even if the frame has been repainted and the original decals are long gone.

Regardless, there is a simple fix, even if you do not like clamp-on cages, seat cages or handlebar cages. There are rivet-style water bottle bosses. All that is required is to drill the appropriate size holes in the frame and install the bosses with the rivet tool. Most good shops should have the tool and bosses. It's a quick and simple procedure, so the cost should be reasonable. If I recall correctly, they were marketed by VAR.

I used radiator clamps to secure the bottle cages on one of mine. Works great and has a retro look.

my red miyata
 

hi, i dont know anything about my bike its red with silver paint on the front tube that you insert the stem into. the serial # is m533986 can you tell the model and the year from it? thanks for your help.

Philip,

T-Mar might be able to deduce the year from the serial number, but the information you have provided is a bit thin. If you could either post some pictures, or describe some of the parts that are on it (if it's not just a frame now), the chances of correctly identifying what you have would improve quite a bit.

The place that is painted silver is what is more commonly referred to as the head tube. :)

Cheers,

Z

Judging by your description, it is an upper end Sekine, most likely an SHS or SHT. The green paint on Sekines, if it is the darker green and not the olive, is one of the best paint colours I have seen applied to a bike yet - such a nice, rich tone! Hell, the olive looks cool too. I have a 1976 SHS that I am in the middle of fixing up right now:

http://a898.ac-images.myspacecdn.com...0613cc8471.jpg

Please post photos, photos, photos!

You may even want to post in the "Sekine world's finest bicycle" thread - the that never dies!