Hi Bob,

Here is what I know about the "A" series frames.

I discovered all this when I purchased an "A" series frame on ebay and noticed some significant differences from the "O" series or "DODSUN" frames.

The first is the "A" series was manufactured by FU LU INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD., the "O" series by DODSUN BICYCLE MFR. and both say Made in Tiawan Republic of China.

Why these bikes were produced by two different manufacturers under the same patent number or which came first, I don`t know. Maybe someone else will have that info for later posting.

I also noticed that the seat stem/post was chrome plated and have also seen this in other photos of "A" series frames and also been told this by other "A" series frame owners. I also noticed that the side braces on the rear part of the frame that offer support between the upper rear fork and the chain stays behind the bottom bracket were welded on the inside at the chain stays on the "A" series frame instead of on the outside and ground smooth on the "O" series frames. Some of the welds on the "A" series frame appear to be very poor quality in appearance. As you mentioned the reflective front fork dart is pointed on the top on the "A" series frames and flat on the top on the "O" series frames.

I'm including some pics to go with this, the rusty yellow frame is an "A" series FU LU INDUSTRIAL and the orange frame is an "O" series DODSUN frame that I'm in the process of building into my next Shimano Nexus 7 speed Swinger. Pictures of the orange bike will be sent in when its completed, probably in July or August of 2004.

I also remember that there were some differences between the early DODSUN and later DODSUN frames. Early being serial# 000464 that was stolen from me in 1989. Probably just minor differences that have little significance since there are very few low number DODSUN frames registered, but if someone has one and wants to know what I'm talking about just send me an email and I will explain.

I hope this is good info for all that are interested.

KEEP ON SWINGIN'!

Shepard Bassett
Inspector393@yahoo.com

(Another note from Shep, 10/06/2004): Hi Bob, I went to another Kinetic Sculpture race, this one was in Port Townsend WA. I had a blast as usual, I rode in the parade and showed off alot (like thats a surprise). Just sending a couple pics and a vid clip, enjoy and keep on Swingin`. Shep

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