Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Men's 1972 Bridgestone 10-Speed Bicycle
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I am the original owner of a seldom ridden 1972 Bridgestone 10-Speed Men's bicycle, color yellow, that is in excellent condition per a local bicycle shop inspection. With the exception of the saddle and tires, all parts are original. I purchased the bike in Okinawa, Japan while stationed there in 1972. I am interested in selling the bike on Ebay, but do not have a clue on how to go about determining its' value. I already goofed by giving away the women's version of the bike that I purchased for my wife, which she used no more than 6 times, so I definitely need help with this matter.
Any estimate starts with some quality pictures, taken from the drive side of the bike. Condition is everything.
old and new
09-27-09, 10:33 PM
Though it has some value as a quaint bike, especially in VG shape, the model may or not be of interest to some enthusiasts. Many older B. Stones were made of a sort of Hi-Tens steel rather than "CHRMLY" steal alloy, that's important. A model, frame sticker and other characteristics including the parts on it may effect the "value". Just now, a man had a very clean, somewhat better than beginers bike he'd bought for ten bucks. More imfo. is needed to get it in or out of a hundred more or less catagory. It SO depends on any reason or no reason.
You would probably do better selling it on your local Craigs List than ebay. Ebay is more suited to higher end bikes. And you need to have positive feedback on shipping bikes to get the highest bids.
I regularly buy lower level to mid level bikes on ebay, ones I can pick up locally (the bikes will usually either be local pickup only or sky high shipping charge). I pay about 25% of market for them.
I picked up a nice Univega that way for $21. Great for buyers, not so hot for sellers.
And to maximize your return on ebay, you will need to have some really great pictures and some excellent marketing, or the high bids will not come.