atcinco

I recently moved to Chicago and I am interested in purchasing a singlespeed bike (a first for me). I found a Sekai singlespeed on craigslist for $225. I am not familar with that manufacturer. It seems to be in good condition and appears to be my size (I am going to see it tomorrow). I'm a newbie here so can't post a link to the Craigslist Chicago ad (Silver Sekai import Singlespeed Roadbike - $225), so I understand any feedback will be limited because you can't see the pictures.

Any general advise regarding Sekai or purchasing singlespeed bikes in Chicago?

I appreciate your help!

Rolla

I'm guessing they mean Sakae, although they spelled it wrong in two different ways in the ad. They are Japanese, part of the SR Sakae company that makes a lot of parts. That one could be a Ringyo, or possibly a Litage -- I don't know much about them. The one in the ad is probably a 90s model, although they were also made in the 80s. For $225, that might be a fun project; definitely not a common frame.

Here's a little background on the company: https://simplicityvintagecycles.com/...r-gran-course/

Link to the CL ad: https://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/b...479916961.html

CL ad photo:




Here's another, perhaps older, example:

atcinco

Wow, thanks for the info Rolla, very helpful! I'm looking forward to checking it out. I agree, it's a good looking bike.

IAmSam

Uhhhh...there IS Sekai Bikes which has nothing to do with Sakae

Sekai bicycles

acoustophile

Based on the photo, geometry, centre pull brakes, fork crown and 5 speed cassette, I'd wager that this bike dates back to the late 70's/early 80's. Regardless of whether it's a Sakae or Sekai, it's a poorly done single speed conversion that I would not spend more than $50 on. Hard pass.

Rolla

Here’s some info on Sekai bikes, in case I was mistaken. Like I said, Sakae was a guess, although the fork crown matches the second photo. Hopefully the seller can give you the scoop.

https://www.bikeforums.net/classic-v...-database.html

Yune_Garage 

good looking bike. Was it spray painted silver?
It’s cool, a little on the higher price side imo but the Sugino ‘crown’ cranks make up for it. The frame is probably hi-tensile, the seat tube doesn’t have any fancy lug work nor do the seat stays.
See if you can negotiate a bit!