OMG. This is the most spectacular bike I have seen pass through the Velo in a while, and that is saying something, because I have spotted a number of sweet, vintage rides over this past year.
The fact that it is my favorite color makes it that much better, but irregardless, the Mafac Racer brake calipers, early DuraAce levers, the spotless chrome lugs with the gold highlighting, San Marco saddle, cool head badge, and more, combine for one complete and beautiful package.
I was happy just snapping photos of all the little details, such as the hearts (one shown below) on the downtube, or the spotless DuraAce brake levers.
The story takes a little turn here, when J. P. Plunier, designer and founder of Feal Mor, drives up and the Nishiki disappears into the back of his car. I had met J. P. earlier in the year during Claremont's Tweed Ride, so knew of his interest in cycling and in vintage bikes. I also knew that he had just recently opened up his flagship store in Los Angeles which, to compliment his line of custom clothing, was being decorated with many such vintage rides. Anyway, the point is, if you are in the area (click on Feal Mor for the link and address information), the store should be well worth a visit.
I just found a neglected one today. Orange, 23 inch with bar end shifter and a french steel front wheel with normandy hubs and Soma wing nuts.
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