Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Trek 311

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Jubokko
12-18-10, 12:24 PM
http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/bik/2109618253.html

Looking to buy it as an xmas present for my brother and I'm wondering if $275 is a legit price. It seems a little steep.

roccobike
12-18-10, 06:42 PM
It's not uncommon to see steel Treks going for $200 and up. Steel Treks are considered very desirable. Yes, $275 seems a little high, but not outrageous. Try a little negotiation, but be prepared to spend $225 or more. Also, take into account that small frames, like that one, sell for a premium.
BTW, I'm assuming your brother is really short or a youngster because that is a very small frame for shorter folks.
EDIT: After looking up this bike on the internet, ( vintage_trek.com ) I would point out to the owner, this is one of the less desirable of the steel Treks. Still an Ishiwata Magny X frame is pretty nice. Also noticed that the bike is supposed to be near mint, that will raise the value if it is true.
wrk101
12-19-10, 06:53 AM
Yep, that is a steep price, particularly this time of year. I have typically sold similar Treks in the middle of bike riding season in the $175 to $200 range (better models go for more, but the 311 is the bottom). I am not a big fan of the Magny frame material, tends to be on the porky end (heavy) of the tubing spectrum.


+1 Small bikes sell for a premium, so $225 might be possible, assuming you really need a small bike. Finding such smaller frame bikes can take a while, so finding a good one might be worth paying more for the convenience (how much time do you want to spend looking?)

jacksbike
12-21-10, 03:30 PM
I would say that about $200 would be tops for that bike. It is well made, but the original asking price is way too high.
auchencrow
12-21-10, 04:04 PM
I may as well add my 2 cents...

If the bike actually is in "like new" condition, it is worth as much as $250. (Just be advised that sellers do lie a lot about condition).

It may not be a high end Trek from that era, but all those old Treks are pretty darn good.
- Also, this is a VERY small frame, which can bring a premium when it finds the right buyer.

So if it is not too small for your brother, I would go check it out, and see if you can bargain it down a bit.