New to Cycling - Vintage advice



Strike009

New Member
Apr 8, 2013
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Hey everyone this is my first post on the forum, and I come pleading for some guidance! I've recently started the habit of cycling to work on an old rusted bike and I now want to upgrade to a better bike. I've been browsing craigslist and I've come upon two possible options http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/bik/3722305291.html (i talked to the guy down to 250) and http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/bik/3715938516.html which the seller is willing to haggle on. Could you guys give me some advice as to what to look for when purchasing a road bike, especially a vintage one? Also I believe the frame size im looking for is somewhere between 55-58cm.
 
$350 for a Gran Sport in this condition is about $200 too much. This bike looks like it hasn't been maintained, except for the downgraded rear derailleur, since 1977. Figure on spending $200 to make it something you'd want to ride, unless you're prepared to do the work yourself and already have a box of spare parts. Do you want to ride the bike or do you want a project?

The Nishiki is not as appealing but appears to be in ride-away condition. I still would not pay more than $150 for it. It's curious how the seller loaded up his ad with tags that have nothing at all to do with his bike. And don't let him fool you, the saddle is an ass-hatchet. He seems experienced at this sort of thing.

These are not vintage bikes. They are just old.
 

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