Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Trek 620 Price

Hello

First time poster, long time lurker. I found this bike on my local craigslist and wanted to get some thoughts before I pull the trigger. The seller describes it as being in "OK" condition. He is looking for 175 for it. I am not sure if it has any rust. Price good?

If I pull the trigger is there anything that I should look for (problem areas) on this particular bike? I have rebuilt a couple of bikes so dirt and grime, blown tires, etc. don't scare me.

It looks to be pretty original. I am guessing the year is 1984 but maybe someone could weigh in on that?


http://indianapolis.craigslist.org/bik/1071117902.html


Thanks everyone.

Seller has no idea what he has (thats good for you). I would run right now and buy it.

In very good to excellent shape, this is a $400 bike. In average shape (but no dents in frame), maybe $275.

If it was around here, it would already be off of Craigs List as I would have bought it.

Correction: Comments above OK, unless the bike has significant rust, then all bets are off. Really hard to tell much condition wise in the picture.

Here's a pic of the 1983 Trek 620 I bought and sold earlier this year. Agree, your ad is likely a 1984, serial number will tell for sure, as the vintage Trek site has all the info on those bikes.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3552/3361225186_75b50633ee_o.jpg

It looks like an 84. The color would be solid pewter. You should buy it at that price whether or not it fits you.

As far as problem areas, the original wheels had maillard helicomatic hubs, which turned out to have problems and were hard to service.

Also, not a problem per se, but even though it was made to be a touring bike, I think it is better suited for centuries/randoneuring or light touring rather than loaded touring bike. That's how I'm planning to use my 83. The 84 got cantilever brakes and an extra water bottle boss that would make it more suitable for heavy touring than the 83, but the frame is still Reynolds 531cs. I think loaded touring is doable if the rider+gear weighs less than 220 or so, but really less than 200 would be better.

If your the end user $175 is OK considering its overall poor presentation. Plan on spending around $40 for miscellaneous parts like tires, cables and bar tap/grips.

excellent! I am going to get it tomorrow. The color described the color as "tan" so I will have to see it in person to see what he means. I am planning on keeping it, upgrading it where necessary and riding the snot out of it. I don't really have a road bike at this point (I am between bikes) but everything I have read about them, I think I am gonna like it.

The area where the bike is is not the best, so I doubt I will get a test ride - assuming it is rideable. thanks everyone for the information!