True Bontarger bikes-Pre Trek- were a much sought after bike and that should hold some extra value into the bike but it is now well and truly out of spec compared to modern bikes. 8 speed is not a limiting factor to those that ride regularly but everyone wants 9 speed nowadays. The forks- although a good step above what is available on modern bikes- are not good in comparison to modern respectable ones.
Normal rule of thumb for a 3/4 year old bike would be half the original retail- less the expense that the buyer can find to bring up to Good condition----such as worn chain-cassette or wheels etc. Although this bike is older it does look in as new condition. Whether you could find a buyer to pay $1,000 for it though is a different matter. For that price someone could buy an inferior bike with a similar spec to this one that is a bit more modern.
I'd ask over in C&V on this. It may not be a Veteran- but it certainly was a classic bike in its day.
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How long was I in the army? Five foot seven.
Spike Milligan