[CR] 83 Nishiki passed on to the 'next generation' !

(Example: Racing)

Authentication-Results: msg-ironport2.usc.edu; dkim=neutral (message not signed) header.i=none
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 2009 18:55:26 -0700
From: "Rich Pinder" <rpinder@usc.edu>
To: classic <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR] 83 Nishiki passed on to the 'next generation' !


I posted a bit ago about wanting to buy a rack for an 80's tourer (thx Roger for your help !) - well it was for this 83 Nishiki Continental thrift store find, that turned into the perfect introduction for my 15 year old nephew Tommy into the world of Road Bikes. The Continentals were a Canadian version of the Nishikis, which had on the chain stay 'Designed by Norco' (Norco I think was actually a canadian importer). The virtually unused bike had a drilled Sugino triple, Tange 2 double butted tubes, canti brakes, and the Mountech rear derailleur. It also has that top mounted shifter thing, which 'bumped' the front der a bit when you adjusted the rear...to stop the rubbing issue.

Tommy had never been on a road bike till today - though he has ridden a bmx bike and more recently a very heavy 'downhill' beast he uses to blast down some local trails in San Diego where he lives. So he was a bit nervous about our 'big' ride of 30 miles...from Dana Point to Oceanside, CA. He's in good shape, and has about ZERO body fat, and I knew he'd do well, but he was hesitant never the less (but remained cool... not letting on too much about it !). Well, he took to it like a pro.... shifting - nailed; spinning - nailed; balance and riding in good position over the road - NAILED. There are some rollers on the route, and even a few more decent climbs going thru Camp Pendleton marine base. Doggone it... on every climb, the little nipper left it in the middle ring, came up out of the saddle (where'd he get THAT), and just pulled away nicely from his 'more experienced' uncle Rich.... Ah .. YOUTH !!

I told my nephew that if anyone asks, just tell em "Steel is Real". He gave me a curious glance on that one ! But I think he's sold. And just like how it happened to me way back in the late 60's or so on my first Nishiki.... I kind of think he had an experience he'll never forget !

(I told him to get the maps out and plan a tour !)

Pics of the bike, and Tommy are up at: http://www-hsc.usc.edu/~rpinder/nishikitom.html

Take care,
Rich Pinder
Van Nuys, CA