Commuting - Used Nishiki?

I am throwing this out on the off chance that someone might see it and be able to get back to me, especially Mike or Oscar.
In the paper yesterday, someone advertised a 12-speed Nishiki road bike for $100. I was never able to get anyone at the number in the ad to ask about it, but I did get someone today (Monday, 5/14) and it is still available. I know this is not the $20-25 deal we dream of, but is it worth looking at? It might not even be close enough in size, but, assuming the bike is in very good condition would it be worthwhile if I could get it for $80-100 or should I not even bother to look at that price? I know nothing about this brand except that someone, I think you, Oscar, said you have one, and I have seen favorable comments about them someplace else. Haven't been able to get to the discussion page on oldroads to check for anything on it.
Thanks,
Raymond

My old road bike is a Nishiki Century I bought used for $99 in 1992. I love it, but I'm not knowledgeable about bikes, I just happened to acquire two (the new Iguana and the old Nishiki) that year that suit me to a T, by luck. They both fit just right and serve my needs.

My Nishiki was a ten-speed, probably from the early 80's or even earlier.

I had to spring the rear-wheel stays farther apart in order to accomodate a modern 7-speed freewheel and hub. This I did by (unusually, for me) patient prodding with whatever was at hand, and all the muscular force I could summon. I know this is NOT recommended, but I did it anyway and it worked fine.

Maybe a seven-speed would fit "as is" in the 12-speed you saw advertised.

The last I knew, Nishiki had been acquired by Raleigh. They apparently have a "Century" model now that's a hybrid. I haven't seen a photo or felt much interest since I can't afford new bikes anyway. Or much of anything else! (Have to pay my ISP bills, after all.)

My dear old upgraded Nishiki is on view at http://www.microlink.net/~jonr/NISHIKI.JPG along with a glimpse of the chaos in my living room.
:)

JonR,
Thanks for the input. I knew someone had mentioned that they had an old Nishiki, but I couldn't remember who.
Thanks,
Raymond

$100 for a bike you are going to use well is not too much. Good brand, etc. Make sure the frame fits you, though.

Rainman,Nishiki had two touring bikes built like a tank very very tough.
Idont know if the one you are looking at is one of these but if it is and you dont want it ill come get it ah ha.
The two are the westwood the cheapest and tha koidak the best has 4 water bottle holders dropouts for front and rear racks, the whole nine yards.
and about 27 pounds, thats not heavy for a touring bike in thet ara at least, but boy man were they tough.
circa 85-88.!!

Originally posted by Ba-Dg-Er

I would definately take a look at it. My friend only has good things to say about his.

As for my old Nishiki (prob. early 80s), I have only good to say for it, too. As I said somewhere else, it just has a nice friendly feel to it--almost like the Gitane I had in 1970 that got stolen within a year. That Gitane just felt eager for the road! This Nishiki is heavier and not as agile, but it's surprisingly agile and alert even so.

Well, so much for the Nishiki. I finally got the seller on the phone, and he said the frame was a small size. Rats!