Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Miyata 210 for $200?

I have a line on an '84 Miyata 210 that I'm considering for my wife. She wants a drop bar road bike for around town, errands, etc. and this touring frame would be perfect. The bike's in decent condition, has new tires, and has been "upgraded" from dt shifters to Suntour barcons. The guy's asking $200 for it and that seems high. It was the low end touring model after all. I'd appreciate any thoughts you vintage gurus out there might have. I'm in the Sacramento area. Thanks.

- Jeff

Not sure about the Sacramento area, but it does seem just a bit high for an entry bike, but you got to consider that the barcons and the cables etc to make it happen worth at least $50. Really, if it works for her, I'd say go for it

(and this will probably move to the valuation forum pretty soon)

Always try to negotiate. Worst case you pay full pop! I like to just ask "WHAT WOULD BE YOUR MINIMUM YOU COULD TAKE ON THE BIKE"? Usually they have a dollar amount in mind and it is less than the $200.00.

If it is in great condition AND in working order then the price is not far out of line IMO. I sold an older 210 mixte with steel rims for 150 but it was as good as new when I sold it. I agree with umpire, try to negotiate a little bit off if you can.

Thanks guys. I'll keep this in mind when I take a look at it tomorrow.

I'm pretty sure that has the triple-butted tubing. It's a bit on the heavy side, but one of the most stable bikes there is. $200.00 may be a bit high, but if it's in rideable shape, where are you going to get something better for appreciably less?

I'm pretty sure that has the triple-butted tubing. It's a bit on the heavy side, but one of the most stable bikes there is. $200.00 may be a bit high, but if it's in rideable shape, where are you going to get something better for appreciably less?
In 1984, it was plain gauge cromoly tubing, with high ten steel fork and stays. It also has pretty basic side pull caliper brakes, versus the more desirable (for a touring model anyway) cantilever brakes.

Miyata changed their specs year to year. Some years, this was a pretty good model, other years, such as the 1984, were pretty basic. Steel spokes and five speed are both negatives. Bike came with Suntour ARX which is a plus, pretty decent components.

If it is the mixte style, its worth it. If not, it is overpriced.

For instance, I have a 1987 215ST. It is a pretty good bike IMHO. The 1987 model has the triple butted cromoly tubing and cantilever brakes.