Classic & Vintage - Trek 300 Elance

I know of one for sale in the classified for $35 although I haven't seen it yet. I want to take an older bike and upgrade it for touring. Do you guys think it would be worth putting money into this model Trek? It is a 10 or 12 speed so I would probably want to put a triple on it and get tires, etc. Looking at the Trek brochures it must be from 1986 and a sport model; probably the bottom model. I've heard that mid eighties Treks are nice though.

thanks

The '80's steel Treks were generally good bikes. I'm not really familiar with the model you're looking at, but my guess is it's worth the $35. If it's Reynolds 531 on the frame, it's definately worth it, but I'm not sure the Reynolds tubing went down that far in the line.

All in all, if it fits, I'd take it, update the necessary components, and have a classic lugged steel bike worth a lot more than you would have put into it.

I'd say "Buy-it" only after you take a serious look at the bike to see what you need. It's an '86 allright with Ishiwata Tri-Butted main tubes which is still good material. Just to make sure, look at the serial number underneath the bottom bracket. There's nothing like the feel of steel! Good luck on your buy!

A "lower end" Trek is still some very good stuff!



Olds

I can't imagine it not being a good deal... unless the frame is cracked or the forks are bent. Otherwise, I'd have to go for it. Just make sure it's the right size for you.

If nothing else, it'll be good training for learning how to fix up a better bike in the future. Best of luck!

i was recently given/loaned an old 400 something lugged trek with 27' rims, a triple and five speed freewheel. i'd only ridden a trek touring 520 touring and a carbon thing once, but this bike is nice. the forks have more rake than is normal these days and i had to put the seat all the way back on the post, but the initial meander/get lost around town up and down hills on streets and sidewalks and bikepaths was a hoot. really nice versatile bike. go for it.

I think I will be picky and hold out for a better bike. I already have 3 now and want something a little higher range since I will probably end up putting a couple hundred into fixing it up. Thanks for the encouragement though!