Classic & Vintage - Miyata 90 value?

Can anyone comment on the worth of this bike? I contacted the seller, and he says he "thinks" it's a 90. As i understand it, that was bottom of the Miyata barrel, no?

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/bik/137502103.html

Thanks!

This appears to be a 1985 model 90. Normally, it is a bottom of the line model, but there was one below it for that particular year. Selling prices will depend on the cosmetic and mechanical condition, as well as local market conditions, however the price does appear to be quite high. The original price was under $200. In my area, this bicycle would sell for $50-$60, in good condition.

Thanks T-Mar.

The asking price seems to be a reflection of a sudden spike in old bike prices on the Minneapolis craigslist.

What makes this bike bottom of the line? Components? Frame construction? Combination of the two?

Thanks T-Mar.

The asking price seems to be a reflection of a sudden spike in old bike prices on the Minneapolis craigslist.

What makes this bike bottom of the line? Components? Frame construction? Combination of the two?

The Miyata 90 was intended as general pupose, low cost bicycle. The buyers in this segment of the marketplace are concerned primarily with inexpensive, reliable, easy to use, comfortable bicycles. Weight, speed and lots of convenience features are not of prime concern.

To meet these criteria, you make certain concessions to cut costs. The frame is plain gauge CrMo only in the main tubes, while the stays and forks are heavier and cheaper hi-tensile steel. Minor components like pedals, handlebars and seat post are made of heavier, cheaper steel, as opposed to aluminum. The saddle is padded vinyl. All this makes for a relatively heavy bicycle, at an advertised 27.5 lbs.

Features like 27" tires, stem shifters, brake safety levers, relaxed geometry and short top tube do not affect the cost or weight very much, but contribute to a more comfortable ride and/or upright position.

The above concessions and features are typical of most bicycles for this price range and era. The money is put where it is important. The main tubes are CrMo and the components are low priced, but reliable and not bottom of the line. The rims are aluminum and the tires are relatively high pressure.

The price of the bicycle could have been cut substantially by going to an all hi-tensile frame, steel rims and bottom of the barrel components. These are the types of bicycles found in department stores. Miyata and many other manufacturers, did not want to participate in this market. Miyata had a reputation for good design, manufacturing and value which they did not want to tarnish. The Miyata 90 is bottom of the line by Miyata's standards, but not industry standards. Still, it is an entry level bicycle by virtue of the design, frame, components and original selling price.

If the asking price is typical of your area for bicycles of this type, then I would have look at it. Provided it has not been abused, damaged or worn out, it is hard to go wrong with a Miyata.

If the asking price is typical of your area for bicycles of this type, then I would have look at it. Provided it has not been abused, damaged or worn out, it is hard to go wrong with a Miyata.

Yeah - what he said. Miyata's, even the low end ones, have good fit and finish. Also, for a bit of perspective, I could easily get $120 for that bike (in decent condition) where I live.

Thanks guys.

Maybe I just need to get used to used bikes costing more than I think they should? The time of year probably has something to do with it too - it's starting to get warm(er) here in Minnesota, and I think everyone is itching to get outside.