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Description

This is a mid 1970’s version of the Shimano Lark-W. The W designation indicates that the derailleur has no spring in the parallelogram and is controlled by two cables, pulling in opposite directions, worked by a twist-grip. In the case of this gear, the cable nipples (like a modern brake cable pear nipple) are at the derailleur end, and the clamp bolts are in the twist-grip control.

Derailleur brands: Shimano
Categories: Shimano - from Skylark to world domination, Shimano - the rocky road to SIS
Country: Japan
Date of introduction: 1972
Date of this example: unknown (two letter date code is TA, ‘3.3.3.’ marking on pulleys)
Model no.: D280 or 52303041
Weight: 324g including hanger plate
Maximum cog: 28 teeth
Total capacity: 28 teeth
Pulley centre to centre: 54mm
Index compatibility: friction
Chain width: 3/32”
Logic: operated by two cables with no ‘normal’ position
B pivot: sprung
P pivot: sprung
Materials: steel

This is also a great derailleur for parts. Universal derailleur pulleys to fit other derailleurs from the same period. The caps also fit other models from the same period as well.