Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Question about a used RB-1

Was wondering what one might pay for a used 1990 Bridgestone RB-1. It comes with a brooks saddle and full Ultrega 6500 components throughout. I know 90-92 were probably the best years for the RB-1 (at least according to Grant Peterson), but that it about the extent of my knowledge.

250$!!!? But I dont know much about RB-1s, except that I want one and everything else that you just mentioned. Condition and 'fit' are always huge factors. You market place does also come into factor.

Do you have any pics of said bike? People 'round these parts dont take too kindly to folks without pics.

Components and saddle alone exceed the value above. Of course, that assumes everything is working well. Without pictures, I couldn't put a value on the bike. RB-1s go fairly high.

This one? It looks like it might be a bit beat up. In great condition the price would be feasible given the crazy market for these.

http://images.craigslist.org/3n23md3p55V55Y45Z2b5v43fcb1f4f317164d.jpg http://images.craigslist.org/3n33p23l95T35W65R6b5v95f88eca74441cd2.jpg

$500-800 depending on the condition. i got a nearly perfect, original 1991 RB-1 for $550 on eBay. generally I see nice examples selling for $650-750, with truly mint untouched examples in the $800+ range. A beat-up / dented RB-1 could go as low as $250-400.

I'm considering purchasing it so I only have access to one good pic. Owner is selling for 660.

http://images.craigslist.org/3n23md3p55V55Y45Z2b5v43fcb1f4f317164d.jpg

I've emailed. Waiting on sizing info.

EDIT: size is right for me at 56cm

Yeah that one haha.

EDIT: sorry for the double post not familiar with the mechanics of this forum. Thought reply would auto quote haha but tugrul found it. I am really curious about the frame's condition. The photo is so low res I cannot get a good feel. Thx to wrk101 for parts estimation. Saddle will likely have to be changed as it is broken for another rider.

I also have the option to purchase the 1991 model for about $800. The frame appears to be in extremely good condition. The components are all original. Only catch (besides increased price) is that it is a little bigger. Still debating on what to do. Thanks for all of the input so far.

$660 is a decent price if the bike is in good to very good condition, but I would also agree that the pictures are not high-res enough to determine that. i would not spend the $660 unless the seller provided me with detailed pictures and description. and if there are any dents or rust, no go.

$800 for a near-mint example is reasonable, but also not a great deal. if it's really as nice as described, and fits you, then you should get it. but if you pass on it, don't feel like you missed out on a super deal, because you didn't.

$800 price point really gets to where you have a lot of choices of top notch bikes in the vintage market. So if the RB-1 is your dream bike, go for it. But if it is not, keep looking. For example, another lister was selling his Waterford Paramount anniversary model, full DA components, for $750.

Personally, I have never paid $800 for a bike. I guess I am too cheap.

Now, all that being said, the number 1, 2, and 3 things I look at when buying a vintage bike are the condition of the frame, the condition of the frame, and the condition of the frame. OK, I am repeating myself here, but if the decals and paint are perfect/near perfect, no dents or dings, then you have a great bike. Other deficiencies can be addressed. But if the frame is beat up, you either have to repaint it (at significant cost, and then the bike is not original), or touch it up/live with it.

That first bike is scuffed up quite a bit. I would rather pay $800 for a nicer one, than $600 for that one. No contest really.