Marin Frame number

[F400sl]

Does anyone know how to interpret Marin frame numbers? My almost complete Nail Trail has the numbers:

ML4IAE***

I have had it from new and can't for the life of me recall when I bought it. I think it had to be late 80's 88/89... maybe it is the early onset of dementure?

 

[Inigo Montoya]

http://www.retrobike.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=37430

 

[Inigo Montoya]

the Nail Trail was introduced way later. 1994 afaik.

 

[F400sl]

thanks Inigo for the link
hmmmm, well although I am not sure... I would swear that it was late 1980's, but you have me doubting, now
Perhaps that would explain why the frame number theories don't seem to work?
Did they change the numbering system in 1990, perhaps?

My Nail trails number again

ML4IAE***

Nine characters but what do they mean?

(hard tail, solid forks, aluminium frame)

 

[Inigo Montoya]

thanks Inigo for the link
hmmmm, well although I am not sure... I would swear that it was late 1980's, but you have me doubting, now
Perhaps that would explain why the frame number theories don't seem to work?
Did they change the numbering system in 1990, perhaps?

My Nail trails number again

ML4IAE426

Nine characters but what do they mean?

there was no nail trail before 1994 so you are definitely wrong
Benandemu theory makes your frame a 1994 because third digit is 4. the same theory makes your frame a 20" (c-c not c-t).

 

[Huntso]

there was no nail trail before 1994 so you are definitely wrong

Well just had a look in the 93 catalogue I have and its in there, mainly white with purple forks, bars etc

Think that may have been its first year though

 

[F400sl]

hmmm, well my memory must be deteriorating Inigo, as I have just measured the seat tube, C to C...

and sure enough it IS 20 inches, give or take a fraction.

 

[Inigo Montoya]

Well just had a look in the 93 catalogue I have and its in there, mainly white with purple forks, bars etc

Think that may have been its first year though

you're right, i was wrong.

 

[F400sl]

to further break down the numbers:

M Marvel factory
L ??
4 1994 build year
I September build month
A ??
E 20" Frame size
*** unique seriel number?

anyone comment or fill in the blanks?

 

[F400sl]

is the '93 Catalogue online or hardcopy Huntso?

:idea: Can you post the URL or spare a photocopy?