1986 Bianchi

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Hey guys, first post here, and I could use a little advice. I used to ride a lot, but after an injury and getting my bike stolen, it's been a couple of years since I've ridden. I'm wanting to get back in to it.

A friend of mine will sell me a 1986 Bianchi $200, but I've been trying to check up on it to make sure it's worth it. I haven't looked at the bike yet, but he says it's in good condition.

As of now, all I know is that the frame is the same as this: http://velospace.org/node/349 and that he recently put on a new $100 seat. He paid $220 for it.

Assuming that the bike is in good condition, would you say that it is worth it for $200? It's definately a bike that I want, but I want to make sure I'm getting my money's worth (and I wouldn't really consider that new seat as adding to its value for me).

When the price is down in that range on an old bike, there's no hard and fast rule. You either treat it as a functioning bike or antique. And a Bianchi 1986 could well be considered collectable for some. If the condition is good, it can certainly go above $200.

When the price is down in that range on an old bike, there's no hard and fast rule. You either treat it as a functioning bike or antique. And a Bianchi 1986 could well be considered collectable for some. If the condition is good, it can certainly go above $200.Thanks for the info. I'd like to have it just as a collectible (and it's pretty - especially that color), but I'll check out the condition it's in.

Thanks for the info. I'd like to have it just as a collectible (and it's pretty - especially that color), but I'll check out the condition it's in.If the bike works really well, is well tuned and ready to go, including tires, and fits you, to me $200 is a fair price. If there's any issues at all, think what it will cost you for parts, tune up, tires, seat (that is comfortable for you - see below), etc.

As for the seat, a $200 seat is probably a good quality seat, but it is not worth anything if it isn't comfortable for you.... so don't value that at all when you consider the price. Seats are about the most individualistic thing on a bike.

Just curious - what are the components. The link you posted won't load for me.

I don't yet know what components are on it; I'll be looking at the bike this weekend (I think).

I do have another question though: since the frame was made for track racing, will it stand up alright to normal road conditions? I would take care of it, of course, but would I have to make sure to be extra careful to get the smoothest ride possible?