Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Sekai 400
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txvintage
01-25-09, 02:11 AM
Hi C&V'ers,
I've been asked for help by someone looking at a Sekai 400. It appears to have Tange tubing but the rest of the outfitting is pretty entry level. Suntour of unknown line, suicide levers, and stem shifters.
The finish is good shape, better than good actually.
Any one bought or sold one of these things lately? The bike in question is a 51cm and is a good fit for the rider. She likes it, but just doesn't want to over pay.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Prices for a bike like that one are really a local issue. Assuming bike is nothing special, but solid, I would expect it to sell for around $150. And remember, if it fits, and she likes it, then paying a little more for it should be no big deal. This is a bike that could last many, many, years, and hold its value well. Compare that to some POS from Walmart that you could pay just as much or more for.
Make sure it has alloy rims, and a cotterless crank. If it has steel rims, then it is more like a $100 bike.
What is the condition of the frame (no dents, dings or rust)? Make sure seat post is not stuck. My price range guess is based on the bike being ready to ride (new or good tires, new cables, bearings greased, etc). If the bike needs to be over hauled, that should be deducted from value. And unless you can do the work, I would walk away from the bike, as an overhaul at a bike shop can exceed the value of the finished bike, making a "good deal" a bad deal.
txvintage
01-25-09, 07:07 PM
Yea, pretty mych my feedback on th ebike. Unfortunatley, she is in the SF Bay and I'm in Dallas and pretty much only have a physical description and a bad CL pic to go by.
She offered $175 on the bike, and is awaiting a decision.
bicyble123
06-23-10, 04:36 PM
I have a 400 I bought today a garage sale, I don't know much about the bikes. The tires look brand new but have no air, do they need to have tubes? There are few nicks in the paint, it's red, and seen to be in pretty good shape. I have not rode the bike due to the flat tires. I need to know if I need to get tubes, if so, does the average bike shop have them? I would really appreciate any help or advice you can give me.
bobbycorno
06-23-10, 05:18 PM
The only way to know for sure about the tires is to fill 'em up and see if they hold air. Back in the day (~30 years ago), I worked in a shop that sold Sekai. Their frame construction quality was right up there with the best Japanese brands. Too bad they're not around any more.
SP
Bend, OR