’87 Koga Miyata
In the world of vintage bicycles, the 1987 Koga Miyata
stands out. It’s a classic touring bike, made from a Dutch and Japanese collaboration. It’s this weeks “Japanese Bicycle of the Week” It has become a legend, loved by cycling fans everywhere.
The 1987 Koga Miyata is known for its mix of skill and usefulness. It’s perfect for long trips, thanks to its Hardlite FM-2 frame and fork. These parts make the ride smooth, even on tough paths.
It also has the Shimano 600 groupset and classic accessories like the Brooks B17 saddle. This bike is a true classic, loved by those who value timeless beauty in cycling.
Key Takeaways:
- The 1987 Koga Miyata is a legendary touring bicycle, resulting from a collaboration between Dutch and Japanese designers.
- It features a Hardlite FM-2 frame and fork, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
- The bike is equipped with the reliable Shimano 600 groupset and period-correct accessories like the Brooks B17 saddle.
- The Koga Miyata offers a timeless appeal that resonates with cyclists who appreciate classic touring setups.
- This vintage Japanese-Dutch collaboration has stood the test of time and continues to captivate cycling enthusiasts worldwide.
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Introduction to the Koga Miyata Touring Bicycle
I have a deep passion for vintage touring bicycles and their rich history. Among these, Koga Miyata stands out as particularly special, primarily due to its unique Dutch-Japanese collaboration. Indeed, this partnership combined Dutch cycling expertise with Japanese engineering precision. Consequently, their 1987 model became a sensation, captivating cyclists worldwide. Furthermore, this bike’s blend of craftsmanship, durability, and classic aesthetics contributed to its enduring popularity among touring enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Brief History of Koga Miyata Brand
Miyata Cycle Co., Ltd. started in Japan in 1890. They were the first to use flash-butt welding in 1946. They also made motorcycles, like the Asahi AA, which sold 40,000 units from 1933 to 1939.
In 1959, Panasonic took a big share of Miyata. This helped Miyata grow in the US in the 1970s and 1980s. Their bikes were known for quality and reliability.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1890 | Miyata Cycle Co., Ltd. founded |
| 1913 | Produced first all-Japanese motorcycle named Asahi |
| 1933 | Introduced Asahi AA, first mass-produced Japanese motorcycle |
| 1946 | Became first Japanese manufacturer of flash-butt welded frame tubes |
| 1959 | Panasonic Corporation became Miyata’s largest shareholder |
Overview of the 1987 Model Year
The 1987 model was Koga Miyata’s best work. It had a Hardlite FM-2 frame and Shimano 600 groupset. This made for a great ride, whether touring or just enjoying the scenery.
The 1987 Koga Miyata touring bicycle is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence and their ability to create a perfect blend of Dutch and Japanese cycling expertise.
Koga Miyata paid attention to every detail. They included accessories like the Brooks B17 saddle and Schwalbe Durano Plus tires. These choices made the bike perfect for adventures.
Hardlite FM-2 Frame and Fork
The Koga Miyata touring bicycle is famous for its top-notch frame and fork. They are made from Hardlite FM-2 Chrome Molybdenum steel tubes by Miyata Japan. This material and construction make the bike perform well and last long.
Unique features of the Hardlite FM-2 frame
The Hardlite FM-2 frame has special features that make it stand out:
- Double-butted tubing: The tubes are thicker at the ends and thinner in the middle. This gives strength where needed and saves weight.
- Lugless construction: The frame is TIG-welded, making it look clean and lighter.
- Optimized geometry: The frame is designed for loaded touring. It offers a stable and comfy ride with heavy panniers.
Benefits of the frame material and construction
The Hardlite FM-2 Chrome Molybdenum steel in the Koga Miyata frame has many benefits for cyclists:
- Strength and durability: This steel is strong and light, perfect for long tours.
- Comfort: Steel frames soak up road bumps, giving a smooth ride.
- Repairability: Steel frames can be fixed by experts, making them a lasting choice.
| Frame Material | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Hardlite FM-2 Chrome Molybdenum steel | High strength-to-weight ratio, comfort, repairability |
The Hardlite FM-2 frame and its design make the Koga Miyata a top pick for touring. It offers great performance, comfort, and durability.
The Koga Miyata’s Hardlite FM-2 frame is the foundation of an incredible touring machine that will serve you well for countless miles of adventure.
Shimano 600 Groupset and Components
The 1987 Koga Miyata touring bicycle features the Shimano 600 groupset. This shows its quality and performance. It’s the last ‘tricolour’ version of the 6200 series, a precursor to the modern Ultegra groupset. The Shimano 600 components highlight the brand’s focus on precision and durability.
Overview of the Shimano 600 groupset
The Shimano 600 groupset on the 1987 Koga Miyata has indexed gears in a 2×7 setup. Some models have a 2×8 setup. The crankset is a Shimano 600ax with 170mm crank arms and a 52/42 tooth chainring. This provides a wide range of gears for different riding conditions.
The freewheel on the hubs is set at 13-19. This offers a smooth and efficient pedaling experience. Despite its age, the Shimano 600 groupset is still sought after by vintage bicycle enthusiasts. Replacement parts, like UG cogs, can be found on eBay.co.uk and velobase.com. However, finding the right wheels or hubs can be tricky due to the frame width and OLN distance.
Friction shifting system and its advantages
The Shimano 600 groupset’s friction shifting system is a standout feature. It offers a simple, reliable, and low-maintenance shifting experience. This system allows riders to fine-tune their gear selection, ensuring smooth transitions between gears even under load.
The friction shifters are paired with a wide-range gearing setup. This includes a 52/42 chainring configuration and a 13-27 gear ratio. This combination makes it easy to tackle various terrains. The YBN Classic chain, with its hard-plated finish, ensures efficient power transfer and durability, enhancing the performance of the Shimano 600 groupset.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Crankset | Shimano 600ax, 170mm, 52/42T |
| Freewheel | 13-19T |
| Chain | YBN Classic, hard-plated finish |
| Derailleurs | Shimano 600 |
| Shifters | Shimano 600, friction |
For those using the Shimano 600 groupset for commuting, it’s important to keep the components well-maintained. Additionally, finding compatible replacements when needed is also crucial. With proper care, the Shimano 600 groupset on the 1987 Koga Miyata can provide a reliable and enjoyable ride for years. Ultimately, it’s a high-quality, vintage Shimano component set worth cherishing.
Classic Touring Accessories
The Koga Miyata touring bicycle comes with classic accessories that perfectly complement its design. Notably, it features the famous Brooks B17 leather saddle, known for its comfort and lasting quality. Moreover, as you ride, the saddle gradually shapes to fit you, making long rides increasingly comfortable.
The bike also has Schwalbe Durano Plus tires for a smooth ride. These tires are tough and last long, perfect for touring. The Sakae components add to the bike’s strength and reliability.
The pedals on the Koga Miyata stand out, with MKS pedals and Christophe toe straps. This setup helps you pedal more efficiently, reducing tiredness. The bike also has an AXA dynamo lighting system for safety at night or in the dark.
FAQ
What makes the 1987 Koga Miyata a legendary touring bicycle?
The 1987 Koga Miyata stands out as a legendary touring bike. Indeed, it’s a result of Dutch and Japanese designers working together. Consequently, it has a Hardlite FM-2 frame and fork, Shimano 600 groupset, and classic accessories like the Brooks B17 saddle and Schwalbe Durano Plus tires.
What are the benefits of the Hardlite FM-2 frame and fork?
The Hardlite FM-2 frame and fork are special. They’re made to last on long rides and offer a comfy ride. Their design helps with stability and handling, perfect for carrying lots of gear.
What kind of gearing does the 1987 Koga Miyata have?
The 1987 Koga Miyata has a Shimano 600 groupset. It comes with a 52/42 chainring configuration and a 13/27 gear ratio. Notably, this gearing helps riders handle different terrains easily. The friction shifting system makes shifting simple and reliable.
What classic touring accessories come with the Koga Miyata?
The Koga Miyata comes with classic accessories. It has a Brooks B17 leather saddle, Schwalbe Durano Plus tires, Sakae handlebars and stem, MKS pedals with Christophe toe straps, and an AXA dynamo lighting system for light in dark places.
What wheel size does the 1987 Koga Miyata use?
The 1987 Koga Miyata uses 622/28 wheel size with clincher tires. This size, also known as 700c, is great for touring. It balances comfort, speed, and durability well.
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