Description

The tires hold air. This is a 12 speed bicycle.

Nishiki bicycles, founded in 1965 by West Coast Cycle in California, were originally manufactured by Kawamura Cycle in Japan, gaining popularity for high-quality, Japanese-made road bikes during the 1970s and 80s. Originally branded as "American Eagle," the brand switched to Nishiki in 1971. Production shifted to Giant in Taiwan in the late 1980s before the brand was sold, with Dick's Sporting Goods later acquiring US licensing rights.

Key Historical Points:

Origin: Created by Leo and RosaBelle Cohen of West Coast Cycle in Los Angeles to import Japanese bikes.

The "American Eagle" Era (1965–1971): Early models were branded as American Eagle. The head badge always featured an eagle, even after the name change.

Japanese Craftsmanship: During the 70s and 80s, Kawamura Cycle in Kobe, Japan, produced well-regarded models like the Competition, Custom Sport, and Ultimate.

The Bike Boom & Mountain Bikes: During the 1970s/80s bike boom, they competed with Schwinn and Fuji. In the late 80s, they introduced innovative, though sometimes flexy, mountain bikes with elevated chainstays, such as the Alien.

Production Shift: Due to currency changes, production shifted from Japan to Giant in Taiwan in the late 1980s.

Ownership Changes: Derby International acquired the brand in 1989. Currently, the brand is licensed by Dick’s Sporting Goods in the US, while Nishiki Europe operates separately in Nordic markets.