Vintage Azuki Bicycles History and Facts

Last Updated on May 24, 2023 by FAB Jim The Cyclist

Azuki is similar to Nishiki as both brands were distributed by West Coast Cycle and manufactured by Kawamura in Japan.  From what I have seen they mostly made road bikes, but I found some cruisers and BMX bikes also.  I believe this brand was much less popular than Nishiki, as I see way fewer for sale out in the local market or even on Ebay.  Japan was making some good bikes during this period, so they should be quality made.  I think the brand started in the early to mid-70s and seems to have disappeared sometime in the 80s. 

Models

Century – entry level road bike

Classic – entry level road bike

Duster – BMX bike

Elite – mid level touring bike

Gran Sport – entry level road bike

Gran Sport Mixte – mixte cruiser

Imperial – mid level road bike

Raider – BMX bike

Rally Sport – entry level road bike

Value

I don’t think there is much of a following for Azuki, though Japanese bikes of this period do have a following.  While I saw it suggested they had a full line and there might be higher level bikes out there, the best I could find evidence for are mid-level road bikes.  In my area most models in good condition are worth about $100.  The Elite and Imperial in excellent condition might get up to $200.

Gallery

Azuki Gran Sport

Azuki Gran Sport

2 thoughts on “Vintage Azuki Bicycles History and Facts

Leave a Reply

%d bloggers like this: