I came across this poorly listed Ritchey on my local Craigslist a couple weeks ago. The bike didn't look like much but I contacted to seller to get some more info. Although he claimed to be the original owner, he didn't know much about the bike. He was able to provide the serial number, 0A3 which got me very interested. Too bad I was away on vacation and would not be home for a whole week. I was just it would be gone.
Somehow the bike was still listed and nobody bothered to contact the seller, so as soon as I got home I flew up there to check it out. As soon as I saw the bike and cast my eyes on those beautiful faux lugs I realized that it was in fact an Annapurna. I was totally blown away and could not believe my luck!!
Turns out this is very early 1984 Annapurna with a touring package. The serial number denotes it as the 3rd 20" Annapurna built. As I research it more I've found out that the front derailleur cable routing is more in line with the 1983 Ritcheys (thanks Carsten) while the unicrown fork and tapered seat stays are more 84 (thanks Eric). So, I'll call it an 84.
The bike is all there and aside from grips, seat and tires it's basically all original. Even though the owner said he never rode it much, it appears he also didn't care much for it. Judging by the number of scrapes and scratches it was not loved and carelessly placed about. Although it's patina, it's my least favorite kind. Nevertheless, I will do my best to restore the bike while preserving it's originality and have no plains to repaint it. In due time, I will try to reclaim the original luster of the beautiful metallic green paint, the shine of the Phil Wood hubs and the overall luster of the rest of parts. Definitely a lucky score and a beautiful bike to behold. I feel very fortunate.
Somehow the bike was still listed and nobody bothered to contact the seller, so as soon as I got home I flew up there to check it out. As soon as I saw the bike and cast my eyes on those beautiful faux lugs I realized that it was in fact an Annapurna. I was totally blown away and could not believe my luck!!
Turns out this is very early 1984 Annapurna with a touring package. The serial number denotes it as the 3rd 20" Annapurna built. As I research it more I've found out that the front derailleur cable routing is more in line with the 1983 Ritcheys (thanks Carsten) while the unicrown fork and tapered seat stays are more 84 (thanks Eric). So, I'll call it an 84.
The bike is all there and aside from grips, seat and tires it's basically all original. Even though the owner said he never rode it much, it appears he also didn't care much for it. Judging by the number of scrapes and scratches it was not loved and carelessly placed about. Although it's patina, it's my least favorite kind. Nevertheless, I will do my best to restore the bike while preserving it's originality and have no plains to repaint it. In due time, I will try to reclaim the original luster of the beautiful metallic green paint, the shine of the Phil Wood hubs and the overall luster of the rest of parts. Definitely a lucky score and a beautiful bike to behold. I feel very fortunate.
