Last year, my roommate picked up this bike at a swap for 150, built up as a brakeless fixie, rattlecanned some atrocious red/tan fade. The tag on it claimed it was a Miyata, but nothing further. I put a freewheel and some brakes on it for him, and sort of forgot about it. Yesterday I took it apart for him so he could perform further crimes against humanity on it and cover the existing horrible rattlecan paint job with one that turned out to be even worse, but at least it's just black this time. Lifting this thing up without any parts hung on it, it's gotta be about tied for the lightest frame I've ever picked up, and I'm dying to know what this is. Anyway, I spent about an hour yesterday trying to convince him that he should trade it to me for something a little bit more casual that would suit his needs better, so that I could give this thing a more dignified rebirth. Any leads would be appreciated.

Allow me to formally apologize for making you look at such a horrible refinish.

Is the frame steel or aluminum?

I ask, because it looks very much like my 1400a AlumiTech model, which of course is a bonded alu frame...

What happened to the braze-on rear brake cable holders?

Yes, it's definitely an Alumi-Tech model. Based on the presence of the dropout eyelets and rack mounts on the seat stay, it would appear to be one of the 7 series models (i.e. 714A, 718A, Seven 14, Seven 21). The underlying red paint suggests a 1991/1992 Seven 14. The serial number may allow us to determine the exact year.

I don't know much about bonded aluminum models, but it appears you have one there.

Could also be an Alumicross. Wait, I take it back. That would have canti posts.

Like the others said its aluminum for sure, the lug bonding was a dead giveaway.

Well, now that we are all sure this is indeed an AlumiTech, I can tell you that your really going to enjoy the ride. A quick handling, lightweight bike that gives a nice ride, almost steel like IMHO. The smooth ride could be because of the alloy fork and stays. These also still look pretty modern with the somewhat smooth, glued lugs and slightly oversized tubes. I almost always get compliments from other riders when I ride mine.

Now, what are your plans for her? Mine is all original with Wolbur rims and Shimano 105 and it's a fine group for her.This frame is definitely worthy of a re-paint and decal job. Just check the lug joints and make sure the glue is still solid. Shouldn't be a problem though.

Good luck!