[CR] 1971 Fuji Finest vs. Newest : Why Two Models?

(Example: Production Builders:Tonard)

To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 20:11:57 -0800
From: donald gillies <gillies@ece.ubc.ca>
Subject: [CR] 1971 Fuji Finest vs. Newest : Why Two Models?


Other than a minor difference between a suede or smooth leather saddle, the only difference between the Fuji Finest and the Fuji Newest models seem to be :

finest newest ==================================== frame angles 73 x 73 74 x 74 lugs short point long point crown O-shape sideview C-shaped sideview paint blue over chrome white over chrome tires no. 75 no. 90

Was there a major difference in tubing gauge ?? I notice that both framesets have eyelets, which suggests 8/5/8 tubing. The parts lists and photos are otherwise IDENTICAL. Was this a strategy on Fuji's part, to sell 2 bikes with almost exactly the same parts, to get a better price on a volume parts order??

- Don Gillies
San Diego, CA, USA