SoCalMtB.com Road Biking Message Board.
This Message Board is for Road Biking messages only.
If you see messages that fall way outside of that subject or use inappropriate language, please click on the alert icon below.
If you want to reply to a post, click on the 'Post Reply' link. Make sure you stay on the subject of the message & don't
be threatening, abusive, or defamatory.
|
Lotus Bicycles?
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
i raced a lotus aero road bike in college--i loved it. great bike, very advanced for the time. all the tubes were aerofoil shaped and had the innovative shimano dura-ace ax group. i still wish i had those roller-cam centerpull brake calipers. i remember lotus as being very, very good...i wonder what happened to them?
anyway, thats all i know about lotus!
Posted by Neil  a 29 year old Racer riding a Magna FS SD/HS from 'dena on 10/04/01
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main) 
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have a similar bike. An SR Aero that I bought new in 1982 in Aspen CO, it is a beautiful bike that I am having restored right now. It has chome moly aero tubing and came with Shimano 600 AX areo components. I found new AX derailers on ebay and the decals were still good enough to scan and remake. I still have the original owners manual, it says see your SHOGUN dealer for service and replacement.
It was a very futuristic bike back in 82. I understand that it didn't catch on because the racers back then did not believe that the skinny tubing would be strong/ stiff enough.
Posted by Ronald  a 52 year old Weekend Warrior riding a P2 SL on 04/11/08
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Lotus Bicycles is/was based in Pennsylvania:
Last known mailing address/telephone number below:
Lotus Bicycles
Post Office Box 21924
Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania 18002-1924
+800-841-0123
Founded in 1979
They had a website in 2000 : www.lotusbike.com but it is no longer registered/active. They manufactured bicycles & frames for road & track use.
Posted by LTCpub on 12/31/01
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Back when I was in High School (class of '84) Lotus bikes were mid-high end road bikes on par with Bianchi. Expensive, but not Really expensive (back then Colnago was the Uber-bike). I haven't owned a bike since 1988 (a Cannondale that was stolen), but was just given a "project bike" with Reynolds 531 tubing that had no distinguishing trademarks and a few remaining Campy parts. When I took it into the shop to see if it was salvageable the mechanic said "that looks like a Lotus." Off I went to the Internet. No Lotus webpage, or anything so they must be out of business. Pretty sure they were Japanese bikes. If so they probably got swallowed by Shimano.
Posted by Adam Zion a 35 year old from NYC on 01/30/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I've had two lotus Bicycles, and raced for a Bicycle Club,
back in the mid 1980's, the Doylestown Wheelman that was
sponsored by Lotus Bicycles. Lotus was a top quality
Japanese manfacturer, The bicycles were imported by Alpha
Cycle of New York. The bike I rode was a team issued pink
and Black Lotus Supreme, I was Dura-ace equiped and was made
of tange #1 chromoly steel. Bert's Village Cycle in
Doylestown PA was a dealer for Lotus and Windsor bicyles
which I think was also imported by Alpha Cycle. I sold the
bike to another racer to get tuiton money. A few years ago
however I came across a mint condition blue Lotus
Competition, Columbus steel frame, at the Lehigh Valley
Velodrom Flea Market. It only cost me $300 and have been
riding it ever since. The old Suntour Supberb components
are as good as Campy. It has that great ride that only a
steel fra
Posted by Ed a 45 year old riding a Lotus from Doylestown PA on 02/01/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hi,
Does your Lotus bicycle have a "K" cutout on the bottom of the bottom bracket hanger? Tulip cutouts in the lugs of the main tubes?
Thanks,
Steve Dahlquist
Exeter, Ca
Posted by Steve Dahlquist a 45 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Kestrel 4000 from Exeter on 10/24/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I've had two lotus Bicycles, and raced for a Bicycle Club,
back in the mid 1980's, the Doylestown Wheelman that was
sponsored by Lotus Bicycles. Lotus was a top quality
Japanese manfacturer, The bicycles were imported by Alpha
Cycle of New York. The bike I rode was a team issued pink
and Black Lotus Supreme, I was Dura-ace equiped and was made
of tange #1 chromoly steel. Bert's Village Cycle in
Doylestown PA was a dealer for Lotus and Windsor bicyles
which I think was also imported by Alpha Cycle. I sold the
bike to another racer to get tuiton money. A few years ago
however I came across a mint condition blue Lotus
Competition, Columbus steel frame, at the Lehigh Valley
Velodrom Flea Market. It only cost me $300 and have been
riding it ever since. The old Suntour Supberb components
are as good as Campy. It has that great ride that only a
steel fra
Posted by Ed a 45 year old riding a Lotus from Doylestown PA on 02/01/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I just picked up a Lotus project bike. Does your Competition have Suntour dropouts and chrome fork and seatstays? I think my model is one step down on the food cahnain and made with Tange. It says "Lotus" on the top og the crown and the top of the searsays Anyway it rode very nicely even with a 75 cm Nitto stem
Posted by Scott vanGenderen a 52 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Lotus Unknown from Denver Co on 05/27/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have a Lotus Legend bought new in 1985 which sounds like your project bike. It has chromed fork and seatstays, and Lotus stamped into the seatstay tops and fork crown, and has SunTour GS stamped on the dropouts. It's not Tange tubing though, it's a Columbus SP CroMo butted tubeset. I like this bike a lot, ridden it many thousand miles, replaced most of the components with better ones...it's great!
Posted by Bob King a 55 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Legend & Trek 1500 from Hampstead NH on 07/05/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I RECENTLY PURCHASED A LOTUS LEGEND IN EXCELLENT CONDITION FOR $200 . IT HAS THE OLD SHIMANO 600 SIS INDEXING SYSTEM WHICH STILL WORKS FINE.THE FRAMES WERE ACTUALLY COMPLETELY CHROME PLATED AND THEN PAINTED EXCEPT FOR THE FORK AND TRIANGLE.REALLY FINE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND TOP OF THE LINE FOR ITS DAY. WOULDN'T TRADE IT FOR ANYTHING.
Posted by ROY STONE a 42 year old Road Warrior riding a CANNONDALE R700 SPECIAL 911 FIREMANS ISSUE from VANDALIA OHIO on 04/26/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
After further research here is some additional info on Lotus brand bicycles:
There were 2 Lotus brands which are all out of production now. The first one which is the one assumed to be of interest was manufactured by:
Tsunoda Corporation
4-142, (missing street name translation)
Komaki-shi
Aichi 485-0046
Japan
+81-568-72-2321
+81-568-72-0448 fax
mail@tu-bicycle.co.jp
http://www.tu-bicycle.co.jp
founded in 1926, still in business
As mentioned by the above reader they were distributed in the USA by Alpha Cycle in Syosset, New York. We could not find any current info on Alpha...so we assume they are out of business. Maybe someone familar with the Syosset area will read this and reply.
-----------------------------------------------------------
The 2nd Lotus brand bikes were prototype, and 1 only bikes manufactured under license for Lotus Cars Ltd's engineering division in the UK by a company called Aerodyne. These bikes were designed for Velodrome tracks, and international competition. Their contact info is:
Aerodyne Aviation Technology Pty. Ltd.
2 Boundry Road
PO Box 897
Strand 7139
Republic Of South Africa
Tel: +27 21 853 3030
Fax: +27 21 853 3035
aerozdb@iafrica.com
http://www.aerodynetech.com/products/sports.htm
Posted by LTCpub.com on 02/08/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have one. It's a Lotus Elite and was purchased in circa 1983. It was lightly to never used until two years ago when I got more serious. I finally got the stem replaced with a taller one and it's now become my road bike with aero-bars and clip ons.
Like you, I decided to check the web to see if this was a good bike or not. I remember paying ~$220 in 1983 for it.
Sounds like I have a good bike based upon the responses.
Happy trails,
paul
Posted by Paul on 03/04/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I own a Lotus bike and have been very happy. I bought the bike in 1986 in Pensylvania. I used the bike that summer to ride the 1,200 miles from Florida to New Jersey. I have never had any work done on the bike, and used it 2 weeks ago for a 40 mile ride.
Like you, I have not seen any other Lotus bikes. I came across your message while doing research to see what I could find out about the history of the company.
Posted by Brian Tubbs a 36 year old Weekend Rider from Dallas Texas on 05/05/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I came across this message board while also
searching for information on the Lotus Bike. I have a
Lotus Competition frame and fork. It's light blue metallic
with, I believe gold lettering. My dad purchased it new I
believe in 1982 or 83 from a dealer in Erie, PA. At the
time I believe it was all Campy Nuovo Record. My dad
rode it very little, and ultimately transferred the
components to a custom built frame. My dad just gave
me the frame, and I've been stashing up mostly Campy
NOS SR components to build it back up. The frame is
nearly in new condition, having been stored inside for
many years. I am pretty excited about it. I've been on a
Cannondale for the past 10 years or so.
Posted by Ms a 37 year old Road Warrior riding a Lotus Competition from Rochester, NY on 05/11/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I just purchased a Lotus Challenger SX at a garage sale. It was in fair condition but after a good clean up, the bike looks real NICE! I'm anxious to get this road bike on the road again but am missing a part. It is that 6" bolt that holds the handle bar to the frame or fork. There must be a set of bolt & nut or something that holds the handle bar to the bike. Visited several bike shops here in Honolulu and they have no clue. One shop suggested I visit a hardware store!!
Should I keep looking for the bolt and nut assembly? or Will another bolt & nut assembly from another bike brand fit? or Should I accidently drop the bike on the freeway so someone runs it over? or should I consider changing the stem? Any ideas??????
Aloha!
Posted by Marvin a Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Challenger EX from Honolulu, Hawaii on 05/21/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I pulled a Lotus Challenger SX out of the Dartmouth College
abandoned bike pile a few weeks ago and fixed it up. After
70 bucks for new cables and housing, chain, cassette,
spacer, tire and bar tape, its a total decent ride. The
componentry is all shimano, 6-speed indexed shifting and
still works flawlessly. Anyway, I believe the part you seek
is a quill stem for a (i think) a 1" threadless headset. The
stock stem on my bike looks like a 80mm or so, but for my
money, I think it would ride better with a 110 or 120.
Hope this helps.
Posted by Cosmo Catalano a 20 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Gary Fisher X-Cal, Lotus Challenger SX from Hanover NH/ Williamstown MA, USA on 06/12/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hello,
I have a Lotus legend that was bought new in '85??
I rode it from Vermont to New Hampshire and back in '86! I love it, I just got it back out and I am in the process of cleaning it up for a ride this fall, the MS 150 in NJ.
I don't think it is worth anything, but it has sentimental value. The company is no longer, the last I saw was a Lotus badged bike in Wal-Mart!!! Not a good sign!
It was a great bike in it's day, but way outclassed by todays standards.
Posted by Neil a 32 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Legend from Perkasie, Pa on 05/30/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I received a Lotus Excelle Road Champion back in 92, for my B-Day. Loved riding that bike. While being in the Army you move around a lot. Well unfortunately my bike was misplaced on my last move. I was wondering if anyone would know the value of my dear and lost bicycle so I can post my claim with the Government. Since the person that gave me the bike can no longer remember what they paid for it or kept any receipts plus Lotus bicycles are know were to be found for a price comparison.
Posted by Mac a 43 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Excelle from Maryland on 06/05/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Not having a lot of money due to just moving out on my own, back in 1988 my Mom purchased a Lotus Excelle for me from The Pony Shop, a small bike shop in Evanston, IL for around $200-300. I enjoyed riding that bike for many years afterwards, and still have it. I'm thinking of getting an overhaul and riding it again, it was such a nice riding bike, I'm sorry to hear yours was lost.
Posted by ItsMags a 37 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Excelle touring/racing from Chicago, IL on 08/13/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Ironic. I received a Lotus Excel for my B-day in '82. At
that time, the retail price was around $200.
Posted by DSBadger a 46 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Excel from Charlotte, NC on 11/29/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hey Marvin,
I think you bought my old bike -- was it red? Anyhow, I had a Legend and now have an Elan 75 Lotus Racing series. Anyone ever heard of that?
It is black and white with all kinds of carbon specials brake handles. I bought it in 1988 and have put tens of thousands of miles on it. It still is awesome.
Posted by Ross a 37 year old on 06/06/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Ross, I was reading an article on the proliferation of latest generation carbon components in the Oct. '02 issue of Bicycling, and it reminded me of an old Lotus catalog I picked up at Morrie Mages Sports here in Chicago where I used to work in the '80s & which was a Lotus dealer. The top of the line stock model featured in the catalog I'm certain was your bike because it had lots of carbon parts--pedals, levers (both shift & brakes if I'm not mistaken), seat post, even a carbon crank, which of course blew my mind because back then carbon components were in their infancy. I used to see lots of all-chrome Lotus frames back in the day when chrome frames were still being made (the Schwinn Voyageurs & Paramounts were also popular)which were very beautiful with an especially pretty head tube badge; I always wanted one and have been scouring the thrift stores, used sporting goods shops, etc. ever since hoping to find one. The last Lotus model I've come across was a matrix-metal model(composite "sandwich" tubing--boron/aluminum/carbon or something like that)made in the mid '90s that got a lot of press, but apparently the Lotus brand is no longer. Maybe it will be revived down the road, like Motobecane, Mercier, etc. but they will probably be cookie-cutter, made-in-Taiwan/Korea/China jobs without the craftsmanship of the originals. Yours is bound to become a collector's item, so hang on to her (and the originally spec'd parts)and treat her right!
Posted by LaMont a 39 year old Road Warrior riding a GIOS PROFESSIONAL/RALEIGH GRAND PRIX/TREK 2200 from CHICAGO, IL on 10/23/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
We purchased a Lotus 2000M Pro Series bike and do not know how to operate the shift mechanism. Could someone please help us/
Please reply to: rvkunkel@hotmail.com
Thank you.
Posted by George riding a Lotus 2000M Pro Series from Minnesota on 06/08/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
My Lotus 2000M ProSeries simply shifts by twisting the handlebar shifter, assume yours would too????
By the way, if you don't mind telling, how much did you pay for your Lotus? I am extremely happy with mine, especially considering paying less than $20 for it!
Posted by LDP a 49 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus 2000M ProSeries from Fullerton, CA on 10/07/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
In 1983 my parents were kind enough to give me some
graduation money that got me started on my path of
loving cycling. After much research I narrowed my
choice between a Trek (?) something and a Lotus
Odyssey (which I ordered from a very small bike shop).
It was a mid-high/end bicycle with really solid
components, and a pretty frame. I had to wait about
eight weeks for the bike to ship, which was torture...I
just wanted to hit the road. I did a lot of road biking for
the next few years: the back roads of Texas, the
RAGBRAI, many a Houston moonlight ramble. Took
the bike out of the basement yesterday and cleaned her
up...she looks like new, and rides like a gem. I feel like
i've got a great old bike. Does/Did any one else out
there buy a Lotus Oddessy? I have never seen another
one.
Posted by Kelly Van Gelder a Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Odyssey from Seattle, WA on 06/10/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I purchased a Lotus Odyssey in fall of 1982. I had gotten more serious about my cycling and wanted something a step up from my entry level Raleigh. It was built with Columbus tubing - highly unusual for a touring bike. I did a variety of tours with the bike, including a couple of weeks in Ireland. Although my riding quantity has not been as high lately as then, I still like the ride of the bike, and the frame dimensions fit me well so I'm reluctant to trade it in.
Posted by Alan Blasenstein a 45 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Odyssey from West Hartford, CT on 07/05/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I puchased a lotus oddessy from blackstar bicycles in Ithaca NY in '82. I have riden many many miles and certainly get comments at the century rides about my vintage bicycle. It was a great ride until I tried to drive it into the garage last week while still attached to the roof rack. It is a orange creamsicle color.
I talked to Leonard Zinn here in Boulder this past weekend and he said the Lotus bicylce company (the one from Japan) went out of business in the mid '80,s when their cargo ship with a years supply of bicylces sank and they couldn't recover
Posted by Rob burgess a 43 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a looking at litespeed from boulder colorado on 08/07/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hey Rob,
We should go for a ride. I bought my Lotus Unique in
Ithaca in 81 or 82. I got it second hand, but it originally
came from Blackstar too.
I totally rebuilt it a couple years ago and am tooling
around Boulder on it today. It's been a great bike that
has carried many over many thousands of miles of
commuting, touring, and even the Boulder Peak
Triathlon.
I get comments on my bike too but not because of its
vintage nature (I had it repainted so apart from the head
badge it's not obviously a Lotus) but because of its
size. It has a huge 27 inch (~68cm) frame.
-m.
Posted by Mark Parsons a 37 year old riding a Lotus Unique from Boulder on 08/27/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) (4) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
i have a lotus unique too. bought in 1983, it is all original equipment except the saddle and handle bar tape.
Posted by Lotusrider a 49 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Unique from Dallas on 12/03/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I'm still riding a Lotus Unique that I bought in Vernon, CT in '81 or '82. Other than tires, brake pads, and handlebar tape it's all original equipment: black Cr-Mo frame, Shimano 600 components, SR "Custom" crankset. I think I paid $300 - $400 for it new. I'll admit that there were some years that it didn't see a lot of use, but I'm currently putting about 60 - 75 miles/week on it and it is a pleasure to ride.
I've thought about buying a new bike, but I'll have a hard time justifying it until something breaks. I'm afraid that my expectations for a bike have been raised by my Lotus - I'm not sure that anything I buy today will still be in use in 25 years (of course, I may not be either).
Posted by Oldsmores a 50 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Unique from Walworth, NY on 07/28/04
Responses: (0) (1) (2) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Coupla years ago I bought a Lotus Legend in a thrift shop. Paid $3.84 for it. Took it to a bike shop - need tires and tubes, otherwise in perfect shape. I stay in top athletic shape by riding the Legend, plus MTBing on my Specialized. By the way, my father was born in Vernon CT.
Ozziefogva here.
Posted by Ozziefogva a 70 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Lotus Legend from Alexandria on 10/24/06
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I don't believe Oldsmores is gonna see that you replied to his 2 year old post..
;)
Posted by Crzyridr33 a 34 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a SantaBansheeCruzBlurr on 10/25/06
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I just bought a Lotus Odyssey at a police bike auction here in a small Montana town ($10)...no one here reconizes the brand...so I looked up this site and found a number of different Odyssey models mentioned (Legend, Elite, Competition Excelle, etc). Can anyone tell me where the "Odyssey" model fits into the hierarchy of bike quality (low end? average? high end?) You can answer to drmctchr@cyberport.net or on this link. Thanks Gene
Posted by Drmctchr@cyberport.net a 65 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Odyssey from Polson, Montana, USA on 12/19/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I came into possession of my second Lotus bike this past weekend. The first one, a "3000R", was purchased at a garage sale. This was an "Aero Sport" complete with a helmet that was put out for the trash on a Sunday morning. Unbelievable! The owner said, "Just take it". I had even asked if it was O. K. to take it. The bike needs everything. Cables, hoods, chain, front derailleur, rear tube, but I'm going to make the investment even though it is a bit over 62cm and my size is about 57cm. I believe that there is a mystique about this bike that I haven't noticed about any other bike.
We all seem to agree that the original manufacturer of Lotus has ceased operations. Yet on the following website the 2001 models are being sold for prices between $4000 and $5600: http://www.roadbikereview.com/Racing+Bike/Lotus/mpl_2298_2504crx.aspx. Does anyone know if another manufacturer is now producing the bike, and has bought the rights to the name? In any case, from the positive reviews from Lotus owners, I believe that any Lotus is now worth a lot more than anyone believes.
Posted by Mike Lander a 56 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus on 07/02/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I am researching wheels for an "aero sport" The bike that I am attempting to restore had Shimano 600 AX hubs (which I think were original) but the rims and spokes were a mismatch of gauges and rims were Mavic. I would like to know what the spokes were butted? or straight gauge? Are they 14, or 15 gauge or what ever. Also, what did the Aero sport use for rims. I have heard that they used Araya Aero rims??? Any help will be apreciated.
rkeir@mctcnet.net
Posted by Richard a Die-hard Enthusiast from Minnesota on 08/26/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I own a Lotus Aero bicycle approx 20 yrs old. The wheels are Shmano Dura Ace hubs, Araya aero wheels. The spokes are flat aero type, not round. The frame, seatpost, wheels are eliptical, hence the "Aero" designation. Frame size is 26" I am interested in selling entire bike or maybe just the wheels. I would trade for a Bike Friday folding bike also.
Posted by Bob E a Cross-Country Rider on 10/07/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
A collector friend of mine, who has been in the bike business for about 30 years, has a Lotus, with Araya Aero rims. I'm not sure about the spokes. I have an Aero Sport also. The frame size is 57CM. The bike is pristine, with all the original components. A friend laced the original hubs, which came with the bike, to Araya Aero rims, like the ones my other collector friend has on his. I'd be interested in selling the bike, for a fair offer. I also live in Minnesota, as does my collector friend.
Posted by Al Fack a 53 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a early Trek road bikes, Specialized Expedition from Minnesota on 10/14/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
The current lotus look like a z pattern sort of the opposite of a softride. is this the same design all lotus' have. If anyone outthere is watching OLN road to the tour it shows Greg lemond on one that looks similair to current models. If anyone has an older one that has this design and would like to sell please contact me.
Posted by Jeremy riding a softride roadwing on 07/04/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Kelly,
I own a Lotus "Special" 10-speed that I bought new in Champaign, Il. in 1983. It had heavy usage for nearly 10 years (including 1985 RAGBRAI) and was then put away and nearly forgotten for about the last decade when I acquired a new bike (hybrid mountain) in 1992. In summer of 2001 it was resurrected and given an overhaul at a local bike shop. I'm back to riding it regularly after all these years and am amazed at how well it rides and how good of shape it is in with nearly all of it's original parts (Shimano). Sounds like we have a similar story,
David Muehling
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Structures, Code 250.6
ph 207-438-3762
fax 207-438-1459
Posted by Dave M a 39 year old Weekend Rider riding a 1983 Lotus on 07/25/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Kelly,
I own a Lotus "Special" 10-speed that I bought new in Champaign, Il. in 1983. It had heavy usage for nearly 10 years (including 1985 RAGBRAI) and was then put away and nearly forgotten for about the last decade when I acquired a new bike (hybrid mountain) in 1992. In summer of 2001 it was resurrected and given an overhaul at a local bike shop. I'm back to riding it regularly after all these years and am amazed at how well it rides and how good of shape it is in with nearly all of it's original parts. Sounds like we have a similar story,
David M
Posted by Dave M a 39 year old Weekend Rider riding a 1983 Lotus on 07/25/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hello all.I have just found this site and am also interested in these bicycles.I purchased a Lotus Elite back in 1983.I used the bike to work off a back problem and rode it for years without a single malfunction.The gears and compontants are Suntour and just had new tires installed and the bike tuned up in the fall.I have yet to find anyone else to use the words or model" Elite" Thanks for all the messages on the bike as I now know that I have held on to something that will remain around for awhile.If anyone has anymore info on this model I would really like to hear about it.I purchased the bike new and have had it inside the house for almost 20 years and it looks brand new.I also have the owners manual and the bottle of chain oil that came with the bike.You can still read the writting on the bottle.Thanks David S
David S
Posted by David smith a 50 year old Weekend Rider riding a lotus elite from kernersville nc usa on 07/25/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I too own a lotus bicycle and i love it to death. it is such a fast bike i can beat Treks. but yeah they filed chptr. 11 you can find them @ Wal- mart now.
Posted by 67502 a 18 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Prestige from Hutchinson, Ks on 07/29/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I own a Lotus Eclair purchased second hand in April 2002 from Babcock Bicycles in Endicott, NY. 25 inches from center of crank to top of seat tube. Crankset 52/40. Cassette 12/32 (6 speed). All Shimano 600 components. Sticker on seat tube: "Champion 5,Chrome Molybden Steel, Seamless P.G. tubes, Tange Industries Ltd." Silver/gray metallic finish. In mint condition.
Kevin Babcock once served on the Lotus racing team as service assistant.
Also a Lotus Elan purchased by my daughter (while attending college) from Blackstar in Ithaca, NY, early 80's. 21 inches, Black. Looks a bit used. Still standing on my porch.
Posted by: Geovan, on the road to ??? a 68 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Eclair, Trek 820, Dahon Mariner 26 from N.Y. State
Posted by Geovan, a 68 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Eclair, Trek 820, and Dahon Mariner 26 from Central N.Y. State on 09/09/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I bought a Lotus in 1984 after a summer of working in
the worst deli imaginable. I road it for years, through
downtown LA, the mountains of New Mexico, the
freedom trail in Boston - it was stolen three years ago
in Boston just when I started to invest in new parts. It
was champagne yellow and I miss it to death. The
sweat that I poured out in that deli made it priceless. I
do think the Lotus lable has a mystique.
Posted by Matthew a 34 year old Weekend Rider riding a Nishiki from Durango, CO on 09/14/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I too am an owner of a Lotus. My model is the Grand Prix that I bought brand new, after mowing lawns all summer, back in 1981, when I was 12. Still have it and ride almost every week. The gears change as smooth as they did 20+ years ago as I have kept it garaged and pampered. I didn't know about the company going under, so I guess that makes our bikes unique. If I remember right, the price new was $225 for the Grand Prix and $300+ for the next model up. Not bad for a 19.5 lb bike that I've had for this many years!!
Posted by Wesley Rivers a 33 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Grand Prix 1981 from Charlotte, NC USA on 09/17/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I curently own a Lotus Explorer mountain bike. I purchased the bike in 95 or 96 and went to their web site, which no longer exists, and found that they were a Pennsylvania based manufacture. The company web site said that the company specialized in making innovative frame designs, producing them in low numbers and then selling the design to larger manufactures like canodale, Gt, and Specialized. This seems to be true because if you look at my 7 year old bike with the frame that comes together at odd angles and the bikes that GT especially is making right know they are pretty much the same. Anyway it is a great bike thats why I have held onto it for 7 years, and I am not looking to get rid of it.
Posted by Mike M a 28 year old Weekend Rider riding a Loutus Explorer from Lawrence,Ks on 11/02/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Ah, the mysterious Lotus! I too purchased one not long ago and have yet to see another. If ANYONE can inform me of an approximate value or technology level for this one, I would greatly appreciate it. It is a little worn but looks nice and rides very well.
MODEL: Lotus 2000M ProSeries w/Avid SD-2.0 brakes, Panaracer Duster II kevlar tires, Araya CV-7 rims and has Suntour XCi and Cr-Mo designations on frame.
PURCHASED: At Goodwill for $19.99 :)
Posted by LDP a 49 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus 2000M ProSeries from Fullerton, CA on 10/07/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
A bike shop owner in Santa Barbara, CA once told me that Lotus looked for factories blowing out frames and components and then built bikes off the bargain-basement discount deals that they got. That is why Lotus bikes were such good deals. I am not sure if this story is completely accurate, but it sounds plausible...
Posted by Forbes Bagatelle-Black a 38 year old Weekend Rider riding a Valhalla Technologies Mountain Bike (my company) from Santa Clarita, CA on 10/09/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
FWIW I also have a Lotus Competition. It was made with Columbus Tubing. The lugs have modest cutouts, and the headlugs and fork crown are chromed. The fork crown is also pantographed. The brazing is clean, although I detect a couple of very minor flaws. The equipment is full Campagnolo Nouvo Record -- the rear derailleur has a "Pat. 83" stamp, and the 170 Strada cranks have an 83 in a circle, leading me to believe this was a 1983/84 model. In all, it's very Japanese-wanting-desperately-to-be-Italian, and as another post suggests, it's at least on par with or slightly better than the top-end models of big names (made in large station-type shops)of the time, whether European or Japanese, but not the best of the small shop or one-man names of the time. A LBS owner told me this model was the first bike he sold when he started at a another shop -- he said the Competition sold for $250, reflecting the glut of leftover Nouvo Record stuff that was around, and considered outdated by many (not me).
Posted by Keith riding a Mercian, Peugeot (track), Bottecchia, Dawes, etc. from Central Ohio on 11/06/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
My name is katharine Star, and my father, Ernst Star,
was the creator of Lotus Bicycles. We no longer make
them b/c...well, we needed money to send me to
college! if you have any questions, though, he is a
professor at hofstra university and suffolk community
college in new york. check their sites- im sure they will
have web addresses to contact him at.
I hope i helped! its cool to hear that people like my
dads bikes!
Posted by Wheatonkitten a 18 year old Weekend Rider riding a lotus, of course!!!! from new york on 11/08/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
after reading more posts, i noticed someone
mentioned syossett, long island. This was once the
home of Lotus, until my fathers buisness partner, my
grandfather (creator of Winsor bikes) passed away.
Now my grandmother lives there, while my family and I
live in stony brook, about a 40 minute car ride away. My
grandfather's name was Sidney, and he passed away
when I was 7 (i am now almost 19).
Posted by Wheatonkitten a 18 year old Weekend Rider riding a lotus, of course from ny on 11/11/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I've also got a lotus road bike, the 'prestige' model. I think that it is a beautiful bike, blue with yellow lettering and chrome fork tops.
It's an older bike for sure, but I don't know how old. I chose it over some newer bikes because it just looked awesome. The guy sold me on it when he told me that a lotus bike won the tour de france many years ago.
I enjoyed reading the little history that has been posted on this thread. What I am looking for is some pictures...
Posted by Bryan McQueen a 22 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus prestige from San Diego, California on 11/25/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- no more
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I own a Lotus Prestige as well. I bought it sometime back in 1984 or 85. I remember the electric blue model with yellow trim.. I opted for the alternate color, charcoal grey with red trim.
The Prestige was a 'cross-over' model from Lotus' higher priced and lower priced models. It went for about $350 new. I first saw one at a shop down the NJ shore (the blue/yellow model) while staying there one summer.
Being in high school at the time, it took a while to save up for it. Then when I finally had the cash, my parents bought it for me for Xmas. (from Wolf Cycle in Philadelphia)
I went and tossed the money that I saved into some component upgrades... mostly crank and hub... and a relative in italy sent me some Campy Nuovo Record derailers
The Prestige fit into what Lotus described as a 'Sport Tour' category. The frame geometry isnt as steep and stiff as a racing bike, and but it isnt as soft as a touring bike.
A nice well balanced combination. I remember riding on many 50 mi tours with the local club and not being overly sore or tired at the end.
A few years later, I started commuting to collge and ran out of time to ride. I miss it, I gained weight too.. I really need to dust it off, replace the rubber and cables and get her back on the road.
If I remember correctly, before Lotus dissappeaed into oblivion, the Prestige became a much higher end model, pricing closer to $1000
Posted by P C a 34 year old riding a Lotus Prestige from Newtown Square, PA on 03/27/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I just bought a used Lotus Eclair. It has Shimano Deore parts. It was missing the petals so I am looking for petals that will fit the Deore crank. The treads on the crank is at least a inch wide. I have never seen pedals with that size of treads. Does anyone know if Shimano made a crank with an insert to mount the pedals? I believe this bike is from the early 80s. Any info will be appreciated.
Posted by Frednaka a 50 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Eclair, Miyata road bike from Los Angeles on 11/26/02
Responses: (0) (1) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have a Lotus Aerosport which I purchased new in the fall of 1982 in Wilkes-Barre, PA. It has been in storage in PA for the last 7.5 years. While visiting WB recently, I packed it up and shipped it home to Boulder, CO. While I've been mountain biking for the last 7.5 years here, I now feel like I've really "come back home" getting back on my Aerosport! This bike is fast! A Lotus mystique? Maybe. An Aerosport mystique? Definitely! This specimen is in mint condition - teardrop-shaped aerodynamic tubing in shiny, sparkling, metallic gold. Are you kidding? Even with the abundance of 5 to $6,000 bikes in this town, I've got the bomb! Would I let it go? Yeah, if someone offered me $10,000 for it. Otherwise, I'll be riding it to the cemetery.
Posted by Bobzen a 39 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Aerosport from Boulder, CO on 12/02/02
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Gone
- Lotus Bicycles
Why do you hate threads on Lotus bicycles? Is this
some sort of personal problem? I've never seen a
Lotus, but can't imagine why someone would object so
much to those who are interested.
 Posted by Fair Play on 12/03/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Gone
- Re: Gone
- Lotus Bikes RULE!
- Re: Gone
- LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
LOTUS LOTUS LOTUS
Posted by Lotus Blossom on 12/05/02
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Gone
- Re: Lotus Bicycles? (NM)
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have a Lotus 2000R, which I bought in 1989. I want to say it cost me $379 back then. I chucked the stock pedals for Look clipless, changed the tires, and added a few other things, including the saddle (the original was white). It has Suntour VX gearing. I have thousands of miles on this bike and never had a problem except a broken crank and bent rim back when the bike was 5 years old. I now ride a Giant OCR, but the Lotus sits in a resistance trainer, which I ride all winter. Still cranking out the miles on this bike.
Posted by Steve E a 39 year old Road Warrior riding a Giant OCR from Rochester NY on 01/20/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles? what is mine worth??
I have a Lotus aqua blue/maybe teal blue color. It is in great shape!..Does anyone know what the value is on this bike?..It is a road bicycle
Posted by Brian Smith a 39 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus 18speed teal colored from Rural-Hall,NC on 01/28/03
Responses: (0) (1) (2) (3) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hi I remeber seeing a Lotus around and they loked like they were fast and upper quality...Searching the net i find nothing on my bike.I bought from a second hand shop a
SR RACING bike 12 speed champion tubing...
any info on cr???lionscout@excite.com
Posted by Lou P a 47 year old riding a cr racing from eureka on 02/01/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I was just cleaning up my 1980?? Lotus 18 speed touring bike and wondered what happened to the company. I always said if everything I bought was as trouble free I would be a happy camper. I assume that they are no longer made,by making a product that doesnt wear out they had little repeat business. George in South Carolina
Posted by George Duke a 66 year old Weekend Rider on 03/09/03
Responses: (0) Reply (to this)(main)
|
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I am unsure of model of bike I recently acquired and don;t have picture nor most of info about it-man said he brought it back from Japan in the 1960's. On back of seat, several places is mared tu cycle. It appears to be stainless steel, is 26" man's bike, has folding back basket, odometer/speedometer, front light-very nice bike-trying to find out all info I can about it to offer it for dsale on ebay as I know collectible bikes are supposed to be worth good money, something I am short on-hence wanting to sell it but need more info on it before I list for sale-I saw stainless steel bike on tv sell for $500-that would fix dent on my vehicle, but unsure how much it is worth-don't want to overprice it, nor underprice it. It is black and silver, all decals still on it, tried researching it on ebay is hopeless, came across some info here about tu cycle. Thanks in advance. (I realize mailing it will be problem as I have no idea how to remove handlebars and pedals, but will take to pack and ship place)
Posted by |
|
|
