Lotus Bicycles?
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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- 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
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- 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
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hey There Geovan and all you other Lotus riders. I have two Lotus bikes. One is an Elite that I've had around for about 15 years that I keep as a loner - it's a bit too big for me but fits(sort of) most people it seems. I guess it's about a 54cm frame, blue. Pretty nice bike. My other one is an Eclair which I aquired through a bicycle recycling program in Ithaca, NY. It came to me as an almost naked frame and fork with a Shimano 600 headset that looks to be vintage appropriate. It has a sticker on it from Black Star Bicycles, which was owned and operated by Jim Black in Ithaca back in the 70's and 80's. It is a beautiful brown color similar to the brown that Raleigh used back in the seventies. My Eclair is a 49cm and I have it built up with a bunch of somewhat weird stuff including some really cool 700c rims with a profile just like Mavic Open 4cd and a sweet bronze anodizing. No name - don't know what they are. Vintage shimano road triple crankset with Deore rear deraileur and a nice vintage 600 front, early 600 downtube, indexed 6 speed shifters and XT V brakes and levers mounted on flat bars. For seating I've got a Brooks Pro saddle with the small rivets. For luggage I have a chromed steel rear rack, custom bent to accomodate V brake. All and all very comfortable.
I also have a beautiful late eighties Vitus with a beautiful vintage build, a Trek 2600 early nineties, Specialized Epic Pro, also early nineties. I also have in my possesion about 100 Old Schwinns, several old JC Higgins and about another hundred various bikes - mostly junk.
Cheers -Steve
Posted by Estebe a 52 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Eclair from Ithaca on 12/13/11
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Ironically, I probably built that Eclair and Elite as I was a mechanic/sales person at Black Starr Bicycles in Ithaca in the late 70s, early 80s. They were great bikes, practically sold themselves, and Jim was a really nice guy to work for and to ride with. We built hundreds of them, as the Elite especially was an entry level enthusiasts bike which we sold for something close to $200. As Ithaca is a college town, it was a great price point for students. Sold a lot of Legends too, especially after they started using Columbus tubing and Campy drop outs. My last Lotus, a Super Record Legend, finally died a couple years ago after having abuse heaped on it for almost 25 years. I even learned to ride rollers in the back area of his shop one cold bottom winter, a skill I'm still using today.
Posted by Emacdo a 50 year old Racer riding a BMC SL01, Tsunami Cross from Beaverton, OR on 12/30/11
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- 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
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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
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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
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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
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- 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
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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
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- 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
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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
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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
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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
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- 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
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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
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles? what is mine worth??
I dont know what yours is worth, I wish I knew what my Lotus Classique was worth, I just picked it up at an auction for $25.00. It is in excellent condition.
Anybody have a ballpark figure?
Posted by Lloyd on 01/31/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles? what is mine worth??
We have a tea/aqua series 7000 in really good shape if you know where we could find the value let us know.
Posted by Csbere a 50 year old riding a Lotus Series 7000 from Cincinnati Ohio on 04/30/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles? what is mine worth??
To add more about my Lotus,It is a teal blue with Schimano parts..very nice bike. I think it is the 3000 Model too. If anyone knows what the selling price should be on this let me know..Thanks alot.
Posted by BrianShimano a 40 year old riding a Schimano Lotus 3000 on 12/03/03
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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 Bargainlady a Weekend Rider riding a own bike is 3 speed from Sunny Florida on 03/22/03
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Hello, Lotus lovers. About a decade ago I bought a Lotus frame from Jim Black of Blackstar bicycles in Ithaca, NY. It is metallic blue, with chromed lugs and stays. It has Tange Champion tubing. It had no fork, so I bought it a Tange Prestige chromed fork. I equipped it with a Sun Tour Superbe drivetrain, Campy anniversary brakes (the ones with blue sapphires in them), Wheels with Mavic Open4 CD rims and Campy hubs, TTT 130 mm. stem and anatomic bars, etc. It's a wonderful bike--good for centuries, etc.--and looks stunning. Unfortunately I developed heart trouble and so haven't been able to ride for a number of years, and the Lotus just sat. If anyone wants to buy it, e-mail back to me at celove@clarityconnect.com. It's a 63 " frame, and everything is in beautiful shape. Happy cycling. Charles Love
Ithaca, NY
Posted by Charles Love from Ithaca, NY, USA on 05/24/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
HI Charles,
That sounds like a cool bike .I have some familiarity w/ the Lotus line, we have an Lotus Odyssey that we like quite a bit.
What size si your frame (standover measure w/be fine).
And how much do you want for it?
Thanks!
Tim Noyes
Posted by Mit on 06/04/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have a teal and grey Lotus Classique. I love this bike! I originally bought it secondhand in '95, and it was in mint condition then, although I have no idea of the exact years model it is.
This bike is beautiful, and I get compliments on it all the time. It's equipped with Shimano 105 components, and it's pretty much been trouble free.
I would love to find out more about it, but this thread is the most info I've found as of yet.
Posted by TM a 25 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Classique from Florida on 06/12/03
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hey guys, i have a lotus international. i know nothing about it. infact it was my moms until i discoverd how great road bike riding was. i recently bought a giant road bike though. still i like my lotus and still ride it, it needs a little clean up. does any one know anything about the international??? thanks
Posted by Colton chapman a 16 year old riding a Lotus international from Normal on 07/01/03
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hey this is colton again, the day i posted that message i got another lotus, a chalenger. anybody got info on that? thanks
Posted by Colton chapman a 16 year old riding a Lotus international from Normal on 07/01/03
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Hi Colton, How big is your International? or your Challenger? I hear
that Lotus made some very large frames... LMS
Posted by LMS a 50 year old Weekend Rider riding a Schwinn World Sport from Urbana on 08/17/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have found a Lotus Elan (27" X 1 1/4" tire size), it was left in a parking lot of an empty retail store...
I plan to restore the bike to fully working order, and hopefully ride it daily. (Currently ride a Huffy Mountain Bike to work - It's to say the least HEAVY -)
The parts list on my bike however is very differant than what I've read (Read about 40 post before posting this).
Jou Yu Quick Release Front Hub..
Long Yu Shifter Handles.
DNP 1200 Rear Derailer.
DNP Long Vih Front Derailer.
Areo 3 Pc Crank...
(can't read what the rims are it's in Japanese...however they are Alumunum.)This bike is (other than the slow leak in rear tire) still ridable...it looks to have been left outside for some time..
Parts are rusty, but all still work (surprisingly smooth actually)..
If any of you know anything about those parts let me know....
I will be replacing all of the cables and the brakes...(they are sidepull)
Also will be replacing the seat as the one on the bike is a) broken
b) torn
c) moldy.... Wish me luck...
Posted by Randallovelace a 35 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Elan from Altamonte Springs on 07/07/03
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Update to the fixing of the Lotus Elan...... 1. Found Front Derailer is damaged/broken....will be replacing with a midline Shimano. 2. Replaced the tubes, both tires now hold a nice 150lbs of pressure...(the front tire itself has a short life left - but this can wait a bit.) 3. Bike was made in Tawain according to the 'Made in Tawain - ROC' Sticker on the underside of the bike. 4. Seat post hex head is stripped. 5. The neck bolt is loose (and I don't have that size, so I have to wait till I can a. find out what size it is and b. get paid again - which is tomorrow morning. Also....as a general note....I have become a member of BTI...and group that is VC (Vehicular cyclist). Can't wait to get the Lotus Elan on the road...the Huffy seems to be gaining weight.....lol. -ENJOY THE RIDE-
Posted by Randallovelace a 35 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Elan from Altamonte Springs on 07/17/03
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Ok my dad owns a 1987 Lotus Excelle sport series. Lotus is mainly known of its quality because it is italian. Its a trued 10 speed bike. He purchased it and loved it great bike. It is so smooth. He has some work that needs to be done. which we are going to do asap cause wre looking to sell it. Absoluteley nothing wrong with it anyway. Very Very expensive bike!!!!!!!!!!! Were looking to sell and if anyone is interested please email me at jaymanjump23@aol.com or jtgold64@yahoo.com thx.
P.S. He mentioned to me that they were never out of business. Its Italian which means its probably located in italy.
P.S.S they are around online 3 bikes is what i researched and found. Price ranges from about $3000 - 6000 dollars!!!!!!!!!
Posted by SUPER AeRo a 14 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Cannondale M700 from Orlando on 07/14/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
This is a follow up to my last posting of July, 2002. Purchased my third Lotus yesterday. A Lotus Eclair. It will not be for sale. A burgundy, 18 speed touring bike with Shimano Deore front and rear derailleurs. Deore downtube shifters and Deore pedals. 55.88cm (22") Mangaloy frame. Perfect fit. Ukai rims, luggage rack and front pannier rack. Two water bottles. Who cares if a tooth is broken on the lowest gear? It's a Lotus! I would have bought it if all of the teeth were broken. Never use the gear anyway. Oh, yes, the price. $25.00 at a yard sale. Where else? Also bought a Dawes Echelon at the same sale. It doesn't get much better. A Lotus is so hard to find. I spotted it from about 75 feet away and could hardly control myself. I still believe that these are special bikes. Overrated? Maybe. But I'll never tell.
Posted by Mlander24 a 57 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus Eclair from North Babylon on 07/27/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles? Lotus-Legend for sale
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I'm selling my beloved 55 cm 1982 Lotus Legend (purchased from High-Gear Cycles-Stirling, NJ). It's been a great bike, but it's always been too big for me. I now ride a 50 cm frame & I'm much happier. Legend was the top-of-the-line racey-tour model. Shimano 600 equipped (except for Suntour VX rear derailer & LOOK PP176 pedals), Champion double-butted Cr-Mo frame. Old, but beautiful, well-made bike. Asking $250 obo, buyer pays shipping from Seattle. I can send photos. mstifel@blarg.net
Posted by Mstifel a 35 year old riding a Fuji Opus III from Seattle on 08/25/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles? (Odyssey on ebay)
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I ran across this thread while looking for more info on my Lotus Odyssey. It's for sale right now on ebay, and looks like it will be going for a garage-sale price: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=7298&item=3644431145 Scott
Posted by Scotrich a 27 year old Weekend Rider riding a Titus Loco-moto from Cary, NC on 12/14/03
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Can any one tell me todays value of a Lotus 12 speed Road Bike Excelle? The Front and rear derailer are Shimano. The front 2pc. brake levers have been replaced with Exage racing style single levers. The handlebars and cranks are Sakae Custom road champion. The pump is zefal hp. There is a 1 pc. Profile downhill style arm rest. The frame is aircraft style tubing made of Manganeese.
Posted by Kdmac a 55 year old Weekend Rider riding a Lotus 12 Speed Excelle from Nashville on 01/05/04
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I've been riding my Lotus Classique almost daily since I bought it in 1985. Yes folks that is almost 19 YEARS, longer than my longest relationship, job, and lease/mortgage COMBINED. I'm still loving it and have all the original shimano 600 parts. I bought it used in spring 1985 for $300 including cannondale rack (which is still on) & panniers. I rode it around Europe for 5 weeks that summer with a gang of other teenagers, staying in youth hostels. Since then it's become a commuter bike and survived some hard winters of riding in snow and salt in Montreal, where I went to college. I suspect like a few other Lotuses on this thread it came from Jim Black at Blackstar in Ithaca, NY - I'm from Ithaca and bought it from a college student whose parents had bought it for him - but he wanted the $300 to party! I think I got the last laugh. Hurray for Lotus!!
Posted by Shannon a 35 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a early 80's lotus classique from San Francisco, CA on 01/17/04
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have a 1984 Lotus Eclair touring bike, which does have the tulips etched into the fork. It has the original Deore components. There was 1 model above at that time, which had Columbus tubing instead of the Japanese Tange frame. I've modernized mine for sentimental reasons. Harris Cyclery on the web will make very nice 27" wheels. I also replaced/modernized the headset, handlebars, stem, post, and seat. I didn't upgrade the pedals to clipless, because the holes in the original Deore crank arms are larger than today's holes for the pedals..
Posted by Iowa Lotus on 02/19/04
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I recently aquired a new old stock 25" Lotus frame. It has no decals, only a headbadge. I was told that it was Tange No. 1 Tubing but can't be sure. It's very light for a steel frame. I am trying to figure out what model and how old it is. Some identifying items are:
- Takes 27" wheels (unable to find a caliper to fit with 700c wheels)
- dark blue metalic with dark blue non-metalic headtube
- gold metal headbadge
- "Lotus" engraved on the top of each seat stay
- shift cables run under bottom bracket and under chainstay to rear derailleur
- downtube shifter bosses
- 26.4mm seat post
If anyone has any info that might help ID this bike feel free to email me.
Thanks,
Joe
Posted by Vintage Bicycle on 03/09/04
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I have just bought myself an NOS Lotus Legend in almost perfect condition, despite its age. According to the decals, it's made of Tange No.1 double-butted cro-mo seamless tubing and is fitted throughout with Shimano Sante 6-speed downtube groupset which still shifts unbelievably silently and smoothly. The only thing I would change are the silly Biopace chainrings which really interferes with my pedalling. The ride is incredible, somehow the geometry just fits like magic. It didn't feel like I was on the bike for the first time, but an old friend I've been riding for years. Steel is comfortable, forgiving, yet stiff and responsive when you're sprinting hard and climbing. A great bike! And love that brass headbadge. If you have an old Lotus, hang on to it. One of the posters was right - it's worth a lot more than anyone knows... and it's our secret. :-)
Posted by Stephen Yan on 03/18/04
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Stephen,
Do you have any pics of your bike? Does it use 700c or 27" wheels? I assume it has Tange # 1 decals on it? I've recieved much conflicting information on these bikes, Lotus either changed the line up quite often or used different tubing types on the same model name from year to year.
Thanks,
Joe
Posted by Vintage Bicycle a 38 year old from Vineland on 03/19/04
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Hi Joe, i know what you mean. Lotus doesn't seem to have a standard policy of using a particular tube set for a particular model. I'm in the process of restoring the bike. The guy who's doing it (he is a certified bike builder from the US) was super impressed with the workmanship even though he's never seen a Lotus bike before. Once it's up and running, i'll post some pictures somewhere or email them to you. and yes, the decals do say "Tange 1" and the rest is verbatim. Btw, some net trawling revealed a post somewhere where some guy mentioned that Lotus bikes were designed in America by someone called "Sid Starr" [sic] and made in Japan, presumably by Tsunoda. Couldn't find info regarding this Sid Starr. Rereading the posts above, a girl called Katherine Star said her father and grandad both "created" Lotus bikes. Father was Ernst and grandad Sidney. Coincidence? perhaps an email to Ernst Star in Hofstra University might clear things up and get us info about this mysterious bike we all love. if the above is true, then Lotus is a American brand/company with bikes made in Japan. That would explain decals on my Legend that says "Designed in the USA" and "Made in Japan". And that would explain Leonard Zinn's comment that a cargo of one year's supply of Lotus bikes (from Japan?) sank into the ocean and the company (the one owned/registered by Ernst and Sid Star?) couldn't recover.
Posted by Stephen Yan on 03/25/04
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I was a bike mechanic from 1981-1983 in Ypsilanti (pronounced "Ipsilanti") Michigan at Ypsilanti Cycle while attending Eastern Michigan University. I already owned a 1978 Raleigh Competition GS that I had paid almost $500.00 for in April of 1979; which I stll own and have always loved! So when I bought ($50.00 per week out of my paycheck) a Lotus Odyssey road bike 58cm/23in frame, gun metal grey, front and rear pannier racks, Dynamo light set, etc. . . for more than $500.00 at the time I thought I'd completely flipped out because I coudn't afford it but I've NEVER regretted it! The only thing I've ever regretted about that bike order was that I let one of the other mechanics talk me out of the color I really wanted which was a real cool light purple. He convinced me at the time that I would get "sick of it" which I don't believe I ever would have. Anyway, I love my Lotus and just might be buried with it. LOL. I also bought a Miyata moutain bike which I still own and love from that employer. Rod, a almost 52 year old kid on two wheels! LIFE IS SHORT, STAY YOUNG!!!
Posted by Rodnjac1 a 51 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Odyssey (Raleigh, Miyata) from McCammon on 04/29/06
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
all original lotus elite with the shimano components for sale serious offersonly you pay shipping if neccessary.
Posted by PARUSE a 40 year old Weekend Warrior riding a LOTUS ELITE on 05/05/06
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Hello, I sell a Lotus 110 Sport, new, original Aerodyne Space technology, size "M" 160 to 190 cm, equipped in Shimano Dura-Ace 9V and wheels carbon. The cycle is absolutely new. Never used. Pictures on request. For more e-mail information: df36@bluewin.ch
Posted by Pippo a 40 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Serotta from Switzerland on 06/09/06
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
This message string may be too old for anyone to see this, but it was a hoot to read all the comments about Lotus bicycles. I managed Proteus Bicycles in College Park Md, years 1983-1993, and we were one of Alpha Cycles best dealers. Alpha imported bikes from Japan, and later from Taiwan, built to their specifications under the brand names Lotus and Windsor. Sid Star was the owner, and in the later years, his son was more of a presence. The Lotus Excelle put them on the map big-time when it was top rated by consumer reports, and they also made a big splash when their "Japanese" models were built with Columbus tubing and came equipped with Campy gear. Yep, they shipped all the Italian hardware and tubesets to Japan and had'em built to spec. Lots of fond memories
Lots of confusion in the posts I read. Bikes change almost every year just like automobiles. Lotus bikes ranged in price anywhere from $200 to about $1500, depending on the model and the model year. Specific questions you'd still be interested in an answer to, let me know. I'm a good resource on the topic.
Posted by Ethebull a 46 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Serotta Legend Ti from Maryland on 06/08/06
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Dear Ethanbull,
Perhaps you can help me with a Lotus bike. I recently found a Lotus men's bicycle in a thrift store. The main horitzontal bar is labelled "ESPRIT", a model name I have not found anywhere on the web except to describe a car. The main vertical tube says "SERIES 7000 ALUMINUM". Hardware is Shimano 600 derailleurs throughout with Shimano 105 shift levers, and Shimano quick releases on both front and rear wheels,and Shimano 600 brakes, aluminum (?) 700 rims, Tange front forks with Lotus blossom stampings on top, and a fluted aluminum seat stem. The color is a shift between orange and coral. It appears to need a couple new spokes, and I'll probably change the TIME pedals that are on it. My questions : are you familiar with this model ? Any guess to its value in good to excellent condition (?) It is delightfully lightweight, even compared to my Raleigh Olympian. Any help you can provide will be appreciated. Thanks much.
Posted by PedalPusher a 52 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Lotus Esprit/Raleigh Olympian/Raleigh Capri from Cincinnati on 06/05/07
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
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I just acquired the same bike (albeit blue) from a thrift store. I am curious of you found anything else about your bike as I cannot find anything at all. Also, could you confirm the maker of the rims and that you have Shimano 600 hubs on the wheels?? Thanks!!
Posted by Droopy a 38 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Many from Los Anchorage on 10/27/07
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
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What a great thread! I have a hardly ridden, all original Lotus Aerosport(I think the color was called champagne), and was looking for info regarding its value. I was thinking of selling it, but after reading this tread and the Lotus history, I think I will keep it for now. BTW, I was the warehouse manager for Alpha Cycle from 1981-1983, and I can corroborate the information in this thread regarding the company and its founders. Reading about Blackstar Bicycle in Ithaca, NY, reminded me that Alpha Cycle sponsored a rider from there for time trials.?.? I don't remember the riders' name, but the bike was the top of the line Lotus aerodynamic racing bike. I don't remember the model, but I think that it was like a Pink Panther color. The Windsor bicycle I think was maybe imported from Mexico.?.? I do recall an association with Eddie Merckz. If anyone has an email address for Katharine or Ernst Star please send to me at jay_meyerson@hotmail.com
Posted by Jay a 51 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Lotus Aerosport on 07/08/06
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
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Last weekend I was at my sisters house in Glenside, PA, when my brother-in-law rolled a dark blue Classique with chome forks and and seatstays out of the garage. He said, "can you use this." I was looking for a bike to convert to a fixed gear (rear drop out or not) and said "definitely." Rode it around the block, loved it. Took it up to New Paltz, NY, rode 4 miles, blew out the dry rotted tubes. Took it into the Bicycle Depot in New Paltz. They replaced the tires and tubes while we had coffee. The mechanic said the bike is in exceptionally good shape, my thoughts exactly. $60 later and little bit of oil, I've ridden it to work (109th/Columus to 42nd and 2nd NYC) for the past two days and haven fallen passionately in love. The thing is solid and smokes past my new Specialized hybrid that I've been riding for the last 10 months. What a pleasure. Needless to say, I'm not converting a thing. I love the old suntour shifters on the down tube. The breaks are old diacompe. I think the bars are made by SR. Nice old sugino crank set. Original seat and pedals. Just one thing. When I role the bike out in the morning, I can hear some friction in the rear wheel. The hubs are the original sun tour sealed hubs. It's not the freewheel. Sounds like the ball bearings might be fried, hopefullly not from a lack of lube and three days of riding. I oiled the chain, crank and cassette. Any suggestions. What is the best way to lube the rear wheel? Can you even lube a sealed hub? Clueless…. On this.
And if this needs new ball bearings where do I begin? Not a bike mechanic, but willing to learn. Friend of LotusFolk, Rishi
Posted by Rishi C a 35 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Lotus Classique, Specialized Sirrus from NYC on 09/18/06
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Hey, Rishi, I cant find anyone here in Southern Maine who knows about Lotus bikes. I have a mid 80's lotus eclair and need boots for the brake mechanism. would your mechanic be able to get them?
Posted by Johnny C a 44 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Lotus Eclair & Cannondale F300 from Casco, Maine on 05/01/07
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
I just last year salvaged a 81 Lotus Super Pro Aero. It is a beauty!
Guy threw it out because the rear rim got crimped.
It's got the full original Dura Ace AX component set, Araya Aero 1 rims, Kashimax saddle, original forward swept bars and Tsunoda Aero eliptical tubing. "champagne" gold metal flake paint in amazing almost unused condition. Even the aero water bottle and cage!
I swapped out the bent rim for a slightly later model Araya Aero rim.
I haven't ridden it yet. I'm afraid to! :> I'm 6'1" 280lbs on a good day and ride commuter mountain bikes with road slicks daily.
Posted by DarthSensate a 41 year old riding a Multiple from Akron on 03/19/10
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?420201-Lotus-Aero-Sport-81-84-ID-Help!!!&p=11112229&viewfull=1#post11112229
Posted by DarthSensate a 41 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Multiple from Akron on 07/23/10
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- Re: Lotus Bicycles?
Reading all the posts on hear really makes me glad I held on to the Lotus Elite bike I picked up about 10 years ago at a church rummage sale...for $8, lol. Saw a bik with Aero brake levers and snatched it up immediately. I am no longer a hard core rider, but i refuse to let go of it. It is the lightest, fastest, stiffest, most nimble bike I have ever ridden and I love it to death, lol. It is old, outdated, and "technology" has passed it by, but it is still absolutely beautiful to look at. And the fact that I picked it up for $8 never ceases to put a smile on my face, lol.
Posted by Jerseyshore1973 a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Lotus from New Jersey on 03/28/11
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