Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - bridgestone 300 road bike from the late 70's?

Hi, I'm a newbie looking for advice for purchasing a new road bike to replace my somewhat heavy Takara Deluxe Touring. I'm new to bikes, so I don't really quite know which parts/frames are better than others. But I have to ride everyday rain or snow to work so I'd like an upgrade from my chunk of steel!

Somebody is selling this Bridgestone 300 lugged Japanese 12spd for $160

- 52cm made in Japan lugged 4130 cromoly frame, long dropouts, 31 inch standover, metalflake silver finish, late 70s early 80s vintage
- 12 speed suntour
- alloy wheelset with quick release front hub, newer Specialized tires
- Avocet saddle
- Zefal frame pump
- alloy bar and stem
- alloy crankset
- nice condition, ready to ride


Is it worth it? What kind of questions should I ask him when I go check it out?

A picture would help, but off-hand, I expect that this is a good deal.
I would go check it out immediately if it's your size.

Bridgestone has a following which prices it a little above the others, and this sounds like a solid mid-range, 80's road bike.

If the bike is in good condition it should speak for itself. You might ask "is there any wiggle-room on the price" - but this answer is not the only determinant on purchase, at this price.

thanks for getting back to me. i attached a photo of the bike on this post. i've also read that straight-gauge CrMo makes it a little heavy. why do bridgestone bikes have a cult following?

x nicole

thanks for getting back to me. i attached a photo of the bike on this post. i've also read that straight-gauge CrMo makes it a little heavy. why do bridgestone bikes have a cult following?

x nicole

Bridgestone bikes from the Grant Petersen era have a "cult-like" following. The reason is that he brought a fresh, unique approach to bike design. He tended to design bikes that were comfortable and performed the way he thought they should. He was at Bridgestone from late 1984 until late '94. He now runs Rivendell bicycles and has attracted a cult-like following there as well.

thanks for getting back to me. i attached a photo of the bike on this post. i've also read that straight-gauge CrMo makes it a little heavy. why do bridgestone bikes have a cult following?

x nicole

The pic seems to indicate that it is in good condition.

Straight gage Chromoly is heavier than butted Chromoly but lighter than any high ten. With all the alloy components as well, I would expect that this would be a nice ride.

If I was to buy this bike myself, I'd give it a turkey-wing-ectomy and lose the stem shifters though.