Commuting - OT?: Buying a used bike. How?

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View Full Version : OT?: Buying a used bike. How?

thv
03-25-03, 12:08 PM
Hello All:

I am thinking of replacing my MTB with an old Bianchi. It's at a used bike store here in Vancouver and the guy there (reasonably bike knowledgeable?) said that it was a Light Tourer probably from around 1980. I couldn't get a model name. I think it has a double in the front and 7-cogs at the back. (the guys said that Bianchi didnt name any of its bikes during that time). It also looks very lightly used.

My question to you folks is: How do I evaluate a used bike? Apart from the usual "ride it a while and check for rust" and taking it to a bike store to get it checked out, what can I do to ensure I don't get a lemon?

I couldn't test ride it on Sunday because I had to go someplace, but I will report back on it after I see what you guys have to say about evaluating it..

Thanks for your help.

ngateguy
03-25-03, 08:59 PM
I am a huge Bianchi fan I own a '83 San Remo so they were giving them names by then. Bianchi also has a pretty unique logo that would be on the front of the frame of course I really do not know about it before 1983. I do know that they did name there models before that they named a couple ofter some of their earlier racers If the put them on the bike I do not know. They are quality bikes there are a few forum members out there that are more knowledgeable about retro bikes. you might also contact Bianchi at their website
http://www.bianchi.com/eng/home.asp


Good Luck.
thv
03-26-03, 01:41 PM
hi ngateguy,

Are you from near northgate? a couple of my friends live near SW 128th street in Everett (Paine Field)... :)

I am going tomorrow evening to ride the bike. Thanks for your help. I contacted Bianchi and they said they would be able to help me identify the bike if i gave a serial number....

The local canadian retailer asked me to bugger off.. I will sell off my MTB here, probably... :)

Narayan.

MichaelW
03-27-03, 03:22 AM
Bianchi vary in quality from OK to excellent, never lemons. A quick guide to the overall grade can be seen by looking at the rear dropouts; the metal slots on the frame which hold the rear axle. The lower grade models used pressed steel, whereas higher quality models used moulded metal.
My brother-in-law picked up a 1980s Bianchi with the pressed steel dropouts, and the bike has the makings of an excellent commuter, with clearance for fenders and mid-sized tyres.
Frames subjected to a frontal collision (eg riding into a curb) can sometimes have damage where the top tube meets the head tube. Look for rippled or peeling paint. See how it tracks when you ride it with little steering input.
If the bike fits you, esp in length from saddle to bars, go for it.