[CR] 3Rensho- dating without a serial number

(Example: Component Manufacturers:Cinelli)

Date: Tue, 9 Jun 2009 11:28:37 -0700
From: "Ross Young" <abarthfool@gmail.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR] 3Rensho- dating without a serial number


Hey CR list, I have a 3Rensho road frame that I believe is an early 80s Super Record. The lack of Super end-style dropouts and the incomplete group of 1st-gen Suntour Superbe stuff that was on it when I received it would seem to confirm this. However, there is no serial number stamped into the bottom bracket shell, just "58" for the frame size. From what I've read so far, I understand this is somewhat atypical. I did notice a three digit number etched into the steer tube when I had the fork out, I believe it was 206. Does anyone have any comment on the prevalence of numbering on 3Rensho's? Can anyone suggest a more definite date for this frame?

Some photos are available on my flickr account here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosscy/

Thanks for any assistance,

Ross Young
Phoenix, Arizona, USA