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balsingh
08-18-07, 10:43 PM
Hey ya'll. I'm looking into getting a commuting bike, but not wanting to spend a lot. So, I found a bike on Craigslist and was wondering what you thought about it? Here's the link: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/bik/398261642.html. However, I was also wondering where else to find good deals on used bikes as I really want a Bianchi because I'm very fond of their "celeste" green scheme. Thanks for all your help.
Bal
thequickfix
08-18-07, 10:56 PM
That's horrendously overpriced and ugly. You could do much better.
seaneee
08-18-07, 11:25 PM
^ wow, that's very constructive and helpful advice for someone who want's to get into cycling.
quickfix is right on one point. It does seem a bit pricey for what it is. But it's a bit hard to say. Some Manio's were pretty nice and collectible, but without knowing what kind of componentry is on it, or what steel it's made from, it's really hard to tell.
Keep in mind that older bike (like that one 1960's/1970's) can be a bit overwhelming if you don't know how to work on them. When you start getting into the late 70's and 80's things are a bit easier to find parts for and maintain.
Also, try and avoid SF proper when buying a bike, they are usually overpriced. North bay and outlying, you can find some great deals.
A couple things to look for (and these are some pretty broad generalizations) are type of components, Shimano 105, 600, Dura Ace are all good, Campy for the most part is pretty descent, Suntour holds it's own as well as other japanese brands like sugino, some SR stuff, etc. Also look for a sticker on the the bike that tells you the type of steel, Columbus, Reynolds, Tange, etc are all good bets. Lastly, if the bars have suicide levers, (levers both on the front of the bars and at the top), that is usually a sign that it's a lower end bike.
Anyone else want to add to this?