| I purchased a Zebrakenko "Wind" in 1985 and it currently sits in a cocoon in my garage. It hasn't been riden since 1994. I was just thinking about replacing the tires and riding it again. Am I the only one that still has one of these bikes from Japan? It's all original and in great shape. I've been trying to find some history on these bikes but no luck so far. by: 63.101.81.248 |
| Zebrakenko was a Japanese brand that goes back to the turn of the century (20th) but only started US distribution in the mid 1970s. They offered a wide range of models, from entry level to high end. There was even a nice Dura Ace 10 equipped track bicycle. The early models were typical Japanese bicycles: clean workmanship, very sturdy, capable components, but having a "dead" ride quality relative to the resiliency of most European bicycles. Depending on the year and/or model you could find them equipped with either Shimano or SunTour based groups. The head badge was quite nice, with an oval with a roaring lion's head in the centre, a crown over the lion's head and 'GOLDENSPORTS GS ZEBRAKENKO'. The brand seems to have disappeared in the mid-1980s, about the same time that the Zebra brand appeared. I have always wondered if they just shortened the name, but the distributors were different, so it may just be a co-incidence. The Wind was one of the original models distributed in the USA during the mid-1970s and was one of the most popular models. It was obviously long live too, if you bought one in 1985. I am quite familiar with the early version, which was a nicely appointed, mid-range bicycle. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the mid-1980s model. by: 64.235.202.23 |
| I had a Zebrakenko 15 speed touring bike "Country Road" in the early 80s, it was nice with typical Sun Tour components, if a bit heavy. Unfortunately, it was stolen after only a year or so. by: 68.248.246.108 |
| I was just doing some background research about Zebrakenko--I have two of their frames both dating sometime before 1981--and stumbled across your page. One still has all orginal parts and the other I converted to a "cheater" fixed gear. Over the course of nine months the rear drop out on the converted bicycle has been slightly bent due to not putting a true fixed gear hub on it. Just thought I'd let you know that they are still out there--somewhere near the Edge. Sincerely, S. Lassak by: 65.24.90.138 |
| i have a maroon zebrakenko wind. its a nice enough ride. its got mostly sun tour crap on it, so i am trying to overhaul it on my own, switching out components, etc. i only wish there was more infomation on the company out there. by: 65.97.135.156 |
| I have a 1977 Zebrakenko Wind in good condition. I am willing to sell it to anyone intersted. by: 71.246.253.72 |
| what is it worth ? by: 74.236.75.223 |
| I have an 81 Zebrakenko Storm, there was a Wind and a Storm model, one in chromoly, one in double butted steel. My bottom bracket bearing races are shot. You wouldn't just have a bottom bracket available, would you? I biked across the US on it and I'm trying to keep it going as my back-up bike. by: 65.103.25.232 |
| I have a Zebra Tempest from 84 or 85. Given the storm theme I think it might be more than coincidence about the Zebra/Zebrakenko relationship. The head badge on my bike is however very different. by: 71.77.4.54 |
| I just got my Zebrakenko Wind back today, which was their top of line bike in 1977 when I bought it new. If I remember right, it was fairly expensive -- I thought it was $500 but maybe it was less--if anyone can remember what they sold for back then, I'd love to know). I ended up selling it 15 years ago beause I had lost interest in road biking. The guy who bought it from me rarely rode it and kept it in his basement. My husband bought it back this week and replaced the brake pads, the tires and the tubes. He gave it to me as a Mothers Day gift. It is in beautiful shape and it still a great bike. It feels lighter than the Raleigh rode bike I bought two years ago (which I sold recently). The nice thing about these bikes is that the brand name isn't plastered across the frame and there was only one frame color--unlike most of the bikes on the market now. I am thrilled to have this bike back!! P.S. Someone asked why the model name wasn't on the bike--it probably came off--the model name was a decal on the bottom back of the frame. My Wind decal is still on the bike. by: 70.224.216.0 |
| congratulations, Val! i've been riding a blue zebrakenko wind which i bought used from a grad student in 2004. at the time i didn't think i could ride a road bike, being new to bike enlightenment..but i soon discovered the joy of riding..& if i go fast enough, my bike makes a whistling sound like the wind! by: 64.252.76.108 |
| I just got laughed at by 2 bike shops when I brought my early 80's "Thunder". I am looking for a replacement Suntours front derailer (sp?). If you know of any source, please let me know. Thankyou, Tim tube by: 74.33.23.124 |
| when iwas a kid back in 70s my dad bot me a bike from coast to coast hardware it was the red baron with the cross on the chain gard. if eny one has a clue on wear to find one let me no. they came with a cheater slick and apehanger by: 24.236.187.158 |
| I bought my Storm from a used bike shop in Southern Wisconsin in 2001 for 80.00. Due to a DUI I was forced to reintroduce myself to riding, now 6 years later I wonder why I ever gave it up in the first place. I ride year around and couldn't guess how many miles I have on my Zebrakenko. This is one tough bike and now that I know some of it's history I will treat it with more care. Mike by: 67.180.33.67 |
| I thought I'd share a few pics of my "Wind" that was left me by my brother. [p][a href=http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/bmann/IMG_0316small.jpg target=_blank][img src=the_camera.jpg][/a] by: 76.17.169.146 |
| And another of the whole bike.[p][a href=http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/bmann/IMG_0314small.jpg target=_blank][img src=the_camera.jpg][/a] by: 76.17.169.146 |
| Sorry to come to this thread so late. I'm replying because I was just given a Goldensports GS Zebrakeno. It had been in a neighbor's basement for many, many years, and its condition shows it. The frame is white now, but it's obviously a rattlecan job; head badge still shows, but nothing else. One point that is interesting: It's mostly Campagnolo-equipped, with the exception of the crank, which is a really nice forged Stronglight (the star-patterned one). Heavy surface rust on the frame, but may try stripping it and seeing what's underneath. by: 68.160.33.197 |
| I was sad to hear they went out of business. I still have my "Olympic Ace" in the basement - attached to a trainer. I got it back in 87. Great bike! by: 24.44.49.161 |
| I've owned my Zebrakenko "Blue Sky" since new. I rode it many miles and never had any problems. I see there is still interest in these bikes. Enjoy by: 65.31.190.106 |
| I own 3 Zebrakankos and my brother has 2. I have 2 80's and an 81, all Winds. My brother has an 80 wind and just picked up what I believe is an 81 Thunder. We worked at a bike shop in 1980 when he bought his Wind new. It listed for about $600. There were also lighting and storm models as I recall. If there is interest I think I have the date code from the serial number figured out. by: 65.89.17.26 |
| I am renovating a Zebrakenko Goldensporte that was in the garbage here in Brooklyn. Not sure which model, it has the original all black paint job but no decals, only the headbadge with the crowned lion. lugged steel frame, chromed front fork, sugino super maxi cranks, suntour shifters and derailleur and dia-compte brakes. Still in pretty good shape! Would like to know what year it is if anyone knows any way to figure that out. by: 69.114.223.107 |
| i have a zebrakenko, touring bike...excellent condition, black. i bought it in 1977. anyone interested in purchasing it. let me known by: 69.232.236.248 |
| I have a mid seventies wind or storm light blue in good original condition if any one wants to buy it or I will restore it to origanal condition which wouldn't take much it has early sun tour stuff the early good stuff which is more valuable than the whole bike. by: 64.136.27.227 |
| I have a mid seventies wind or storm light blue in good original condition if any one wants to buy it or I will restore it to origanal condition which wouldn't take much it has early sun tour stuff the early good stuff which is more valuable than the whole bike. by: 64.136.27.227 |
| I have a mid seventies wind or storm light blue in good original condition if any one wants to buy it or I will restore it to origanal condition which wouldn't take much it has early sun tour stuff the early good stuff which is more valuable than the whole bike.[p][a href=mnbikeresto@yahoo.com target=_blank][img src=the_camera.jpg][/a] by: 64.136.27.227 |
| I have a Zebrakenko that I found in a friend's basement. Think it had been there for many, many years. Not in great shape (bad respray, lots of wear), but the funny thing is that the bike actually has good components: Campagnolo derailleurs, seatpost, rims, hubs; beautiful Stronglight alloy crank. Any others out there like mine? by: 151.199.51.52 |
| i have a zebrakenko I believe thunder are there Serial numbers or date code to tell when the bike was produced.. I picked it up for $5 or 10.00 a couple of years ago at a tag sale perfect condition. I'll post a picture if anyone wants to see it. I'm not looking to sell it just want to find out anything i can about the bike.Thanks Wally (Manchester, CT) by: 192.249.47.8 |
| Looking to sell my 1984 Zebrakenko OM-4. Beautiful condition. Make me an offer. by: 75.7.244.199 |
| I paid $275 for a brand-new Zebrakenko Wind in 1977. I've still got it, under the stairs, still with the Wind decal on the right rear stay...I guess they went up a lot after that. by: 71.163.232.3 |
| i recently got into riding. my first decent road bike was my fathers "wind" zebrakenko. ive moved one but want to keep the bike alive so im gunna convert it to a fix. nice to see others with winds by: 166.66.178.207 |
| This Zebrakenko fan is on the lookout for opportunities to buy one of these sweet 1980's bikes. Let me know if you have one for sale. Joe by: 75.73.11.67 |
| I have a 1976 Zebrakenko Lightning that my parents bought for me in 1976 for $280. It’s seen some abuse/ neglect over the years, but continues to be my only bike, and I just put clipless pedals on it. Looks pretty scrappy now, but originally a pearlescent light blue/violet. Chr-moly frame, seems to have been fitted out similar to the Wind. It’s a good old friend. by: 65.1.193.5 |
| Have a blue Zebrakenco Wind bought new in 1977 at Greasy Wheel Plymouth, NH. Still pretty, and pretty bulletproof. by: 71.101.180.192 |
| How much are they worth today by: 208.101.148.225 |
| Hello, I have a mid-seventies Zebrakenko with less than 100 miles on it. I hardly ever used it. I put new tires on it due to dry rot. It's a 12 speed road bike in like new condition. I would like to sell it. It has Suntour equipment. I paid $300 for it new. 203-288-0354 or edelman@comcast.net by: 71.235.194.109 |
| RS ZEBRAKEBKO STORM all ORGINAL DEEP RED METAILIC COLOR 9.999 ALL ORGINAL MINT CONDITION LOW MILES 1983 STORM LARGE FRAME 34..1/2" STANDOVER Dia Compe crank and breaks $400.00 new tires ORGINAL BEAR CLAW FOOT PEDALS WITH SHOE SUPPORTS JAPAN CLASSIC TIME Capsule by: 12.72.105.81 |
| Hello, a couple people mentioned the serial codes on Zebrakenkos. Mine is a Wind in metallic burgundy color over chrome. It has Suntour forged dropouts. The serial number is in two parts: D1D1125 Z81D Anyone know how do decipher these? Can I assume the Z81D part might signify the year as being 1981? Also, would anyone know what the original parts were on this bike? I got mine as a frame and built it up as a fixie just to get it rolling but would really like to get it back to geared road condition, preferably with original parts. Thanks![p][a href=http://i40.tinypic.com/zj77vb.jpg target=_blank][img src=the_camera.jpg][/a] by: 208.120.231.171 |
| I have a zebrakenko, it is in fair condition, it is a cmplete bike. Iam trying to find a value. by: 173.108.214.51 |
| Hmm. I paid $7 for a 64cm "Wind" frame, forks, cranks, headset, and bars today at a yard sale. I was going to Ebay it, but maybe now I will keep it rolling. by: 209.112.151.178 |
| I have a Zebrakenko I bought in '83. I moved out of the city a couple months later and haven't ridden it since. Will sell, if interested, email me for details and pics. by: 96.234.218.209 |
| I have a black Zebrakenko Wind, I want to replace the tires which are rotting away. I can't read the size on the sidewalls. Can anyone tell me the size? Thank you, Jim by: 64.12.116.203 |
| I have a 1977 that I bought new for $500. Haven't had it out for a few years but plan on a triathlon this weekend. Road portion is 20 miles hope it holds up. It is still in good shape was and still is the best ride for the price I have ever been on. by: 68.72.1.3 |
| I have a 19 inch mens 1981 Pearlized Champagne New Sun Zebra Kenko, hardly ever used in super mint condition and would like to sell...... by: 24.44.145.149 |
| Red Zebra Kenko posted on Mpls MN Craigslist, hot red storm, I will purchase and pick up for anybody out of area. Don't know how long it has been posted and forgot who the guy was that E-mailed me and wanted one. It is cheap. Mike Larsen St. Paul, MN USA by: 64.136.27.227 |
| Response to Bonde; Z81D does signify 1981, the D translates to April. Does the headbadge have a lion head of does it show a stylized Z with a zebrahead on it? I have 2 80's & 1 81 Winds. Tell me what the headbadge is and I can tell you the components are as they seemed to changed during this period. Good luck! by: 76.16.88.142 |
| I just picked up a Maroon Zebrakenko Goldensports Wind for $20 at an estate sale. First time ever heard of this bike. Suntour handlebar-end shifters (wow - never had one of these) and derailleur, shimano hubs, allow wheels. Diacompe brakes, gummy hoods yucky. Very nice lion head badge. Can't remember if 10 or 12 speed, but very nice either way. Will keep since rare and the name is great. I have a Zebrakeno ..... a whooda whatta? by: 209.150.54.157 |
| I just brough home a 1980 maroon Zebrakenco Thunder mixte that a friend gave me. It has the crowned lion headbadge, Suntour Seven deraileurs, diacompe brakes and sigano crank. Unfortunately, the downtube is buckled near the headtube - looks like somebody ran into something pretty hard. Too bad because the paint, decals, etc. are in good shape. The frame is lugged, so repair isn't out of the question. Too bad i would have to ruin the finish in th process. I know the bike isn't worth it, but I want to learn to work on frames, so this could be a bike to learn on. by: 71.173.72.92 |
| I have a pink Zebra (no kenko) circa 1986 with 022 tubing and Suntour components; willing to sell... by: 204.14.58.170 |
| My bro gave me a bike. Its a "zebra sprint." I believe it was derived from "zebrakenko." Funny thing is, is that I haven't been able to find the bike online. Anyway, it has a black frame, with "Suntour" parts. Any insight on this bike would be appreciated. by: 208.157.164.16 |
| I have a Zebrachenko "Sun" bike. Dark blue with all the decals. Lion Head raised badge. It has Suntour VX gears, Sugino Super Maxy crankset, Cro-Mo frame, butted, HT-4500 Steel fork. Di-comp brakes. Can anyone tell me anything about it? What level bike was it? Does it have any value? by: 173.69.56.87 |
| hey guys i have zebrakenko bike that i picked up for 40 bucks its called "fire" just wonder if anyone knew the story about it or if anyone else out there is riding one cuz i didnt see any other entries about the fire by: 157.160.165.179 |
| BlackZebraWind, circa 1981-ish, deemed unworthy of tune-up by will-remain-unnamed outdoor Recreational Equipment store tech. Still fits this tiny girl as no other frame has, especially after anatomically-correct saddle retrofit, and rides as its name implies. Looking for spare parts: bad winter, uncovered beneath carport. Can't seem to save coffee $ fast enough for that Ruby. by: 71.184.108.33 |
| $500 in 1977 was a pretty expensive bike! Are you sure? For a BB replacement, just get a YST cartridge bearing model; cheap, reliable, maintenance-free. Try biketoolsetc.com Keep 'em rolling. by: 216.15.114.27 |
| So if Z81D is April of 81, what does Z80M denote? Presumably 1980 but which month? Also, is it Blue Sky, Wind, Storm, Thunder, Olympic Ace in terms of increasing quality of models, or did that vary by year? In the 70's was there only the Wind? by: 66.108.105.183 |
| Zebrakenko brochure from 1981 with specs, photos, etc.[p][a href=http://picasaweb.google.com/106705517998469661261/ZebrakenkoBicycles target=_blank][img src=the_camera.jpg][/a] by: 128.104.60.231 |
| Anyone have some serial numbers to post? I have what I think is an mid 80's zebrakenko but am unable to confirm it. With the front badge missing all I have to identify it is one made in Japan decal at the bottom of the down tube. My number is K7B03028. Or if anyone could post some close up pics of the butted joints of the frame it would be greatly appreciated. From my initial comparisions with distance shots I have been able to be almost sure it is an old Golden Sport. Thanks so much for any replys. GJ by: 71.229.166.47 |
| Wow, Susan, that Zebrakenko brochure from 81 is a find! I would love to be able to read that spec sheet, but when I zoom in it is blurred, even using photo shop. Is there any way you could scan it at a higher resolution and re-post it here? I bet everyone would be very interested. I think it would answer lots of questions about the various models. Thanks! by: 66.108.105.183 |
| GJ, assuming it is mid-1980s, the serial number would make it a 1987. But Zebrakenko had disappeared from the market by them, so it may be a 1987. What are the makes and models of the major components? Are you even sure it's a Zebrakenko? by: 66.78.118.104 |
| Oops, in my previous post I eant that it may be a 1977. by: 66.78.118.104 |
| I have a Zebrakenko Thunder. Besides the tires which look old, the bike is still in excellent shape! I still have the owners manual for my bike as well. by: 67.86.170.152 |
| I just bought a Zebra Suprema (Zebrakenko) with a full Shimano 600 series set already on the bike. Can anyone tell me how to determine the age?[p][a href=http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1576077172#!/photo.php?pid=31103581&id=1576077172 target=_blank][img src=the_camera.jpg][/a] by: 67.197.71.115 |
| I have a zebrakenko "Fire" that im fixed up and repainted i was just wondering how rare it might be and the history behind it i havent been able to find anything about it nor did i hear "Fire" get mentioned in any blog.....someone help me out please by: 174.59.201.104 |
| I have a Zebrakenko Wind purchased by me new in 1976. It is still in excellent condition although I seldom ride it anymore. Today I ride primarily a recumbent trike or a trail bike. There was a road test published in Bicycling magazine in their Sep 1976 edition comparing the Kobe Cobra and the Zebrakenko Wind. The article was written by Gary Fisher, and he was very impressed by the Wind. The retail price for the Wind in 1976 was $190. by: 174.111.236.167 |
| Great posts, everyone! The catalog posted by Susan on 6/18/2010 is very helpful. I have a 1980 Zebrakenko Lightning, in pearlized blue mist, purchased new in March 1987 from Bicycle Village in Annandale VA for $208. The sales clerk told me it was a prior year model (little did I know it was 7 years new!) He swore when he realized the store had mis-labeled the price, so thought it was a good deal then and it has been my primary commuting and touring bike for the past 23 years. Over the years I have changed freewheels and seat, installed a rear rack, and converted to clipless pedals. In the last year I replaced the wheels and brake levers. As my 50th birthday looms, I am considering switching to a hill-friendlier 48/34 front sprocket & crankset, perhaps Sugino XD 700. These upgrades make no sense, but this is my mid-life crisis. I love this bike! I'll post photos once I've finished this project. by: 24.6.210.211 |
| Hey, I'll try to get a better scan of the Zebra brochure spec sheet pages and throw it up soon. Susan by: 99.153.133.209 |
| I bought my black-framed Zebrakenko Wind 10-speed Bicycle on Dec. 29, 1976 for $189.95 in Arlington, Va. and I still ride it almost everyday. I've replaced the front fork twice, but I still have the original receipt and the owner's manual, and this 55 year old rider has to say it's the best bike I've ever had! by: 71.62.75.46 |