" A basic value 10-Speed that gives you Japanese technology and quality at the lowest possible price."
~~ 1987 Catalog Quote ~~

The steel-rimmed Lotus Special (Pacific Cycles) was a Lotus entry-level value bicycle. It was introduced circa 1982 and was only available in Blue. Up until then, the entry-level bicycle was the Lotus America, which received a promotion when the Special became available. The Lotus America was made by Tsunoda in Japan and the first-generation Lotus Special was made in Taiwan. Later models of the Lotus Special would resume production in Japan.

The bicycle on the right is a first-generation, circa 1982, Lotus Special in Blue.  Note the double seat tube decals to coordinate with the style of the first-generation Tsunoda models. For more background information on the first generation Lotus Special and Pacific Cycles please visit the Lotus Elite page.

Lotus would discontinue the Special during the mid 1980's when it was replaced by the Lotus International.  The Special returned again in 1987 as the entry level model in the Lotus Sport Series next to the then upgraded International.

Early Lotus Special models were also available in a mixte style frame and the later models, circa 1987, models were available in a double downtube style women's frame. 

So far, the award for the smallest of the Lotus road bicycles goes to the 1983 Lotus Special shown below.  This bicycle sports 24-inch wheels on it's 18-inch Blue frame.  As far as we know, the Special was the only Junior-size road bike with 24-inch wheels that Lotus ever offered.  The 44-48cm Elite 600  and 18-inch Unique models in 1987 were available with a 24-inch front wheel paired with a 700c rear wheel. The 1987 Lotus Special is listed in the 1987 catalog as being available in a 17-inch "Boys and Girls"  frame with 24-inch wheels.  We'd love to see one.