Updated 9.2.2011
The Maeda Iron Works Company (later called SunTour) was founded
in 1912 by Shikanosuke Maeda and their first product, the bicycle freewheel, was
named
8.8.8.
Why "8.8.8?" The number 8 represents success, wealth and prosperity...
1950s rear derailleur
Even Suntour could
not escape the drill out
craze of the 70's!