Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Nishiki Modulus SRT, what's it worth?

I'm looking for a decent used bike for endurance training to support my xc mountain bike racing. There isn't much of a market here in Central KY, so this item on ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230749019241&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123#ht_2602wt_79) caught my eye. http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Nishiki-Modulus-SRT-Road-Bike-21inch-54cm-Frame-EXC-Condition-Just-Re-furbed-/00/s/NDgwWDY0MA==/$(KGrHqJHJBQE8+nTJJiQBPQCtz,k)w~~60_3.JPG

Seller's description:

I got this bike off a family member because they bought it and never rode it and I wanted to try and use it for a short ride or commuter bike. I had it completely tuned up and got the chain replaced about 3 months ago just because it had been sitting (inside) for a bit. I like the bike but its really too small for me to use long term and I want to sell it to get something more my size. It was meant for the original owner who is 5'8'' and Im 6'3''. Everything on the bike works like new and there are only a couple of minor scratches. No rust.

Im not an expert but from looking at it I can tell...
The bike came with Shimano EXAGE EX components, including EXAGE ACTION aero brake levers and brake calipers and downtube shifters. Both wheels are quick release and have aluminum 700x23c rims with Bontrager Sport B tires. Lightweight CRMO tubing. I am not sure what the frame is made of but it is probably steel. Its not heavy though in my opinion and it handled the roads well I thought. It was just a little awkward for me at my size.

So I'm in the somewhat challenging position of wanting a decent used bike, but not wanting to pay very much for it. Is this bike worth buying? The starting bid is $150 and the Buy it Now price is $210.

Thanks for your help,

Michael

The bicycle in question is a circa 1990, entry level model. Shimano 300EX models of this era typically retailed for about $350 US but his isn't even full 300EX so it's almost certainly a sub $300 original price. It does appear to be in excellent condition. The frame does appear to be about a 54cm and is probably appropriate for a average proportioned person with a height of 5'6"' to 5'8".

I don't jnow the market in your area. Personally, I'd continue my search but if the picking are slim, at $150 it may be a fair deal. I wouldn't want to pay $210 and spend a lot of gas money to pick it up.

I agree I don't know what you call central KY but that bike would be aquite a hike from Louisville to pick up.

It does look like a good deal at $150 though

Depending where you live, Bristol, VA is a haul. Since you are willing to drive that far, why not monitor C/L in several areas within that distance, say Cinncinati, Louisville, maybe even Nashville, TN. I routinely drive a distance to shag after bikes. Drove 90 miles one way to pick up the last one.

Want to find a bike on a budget? Word of mouth is the best, and be open to doing some rehab work yourself (the best deals tend to be on neglected bikes that have been sitting for a while, and then end up being sold at a garage sale, or given to a neighbor or friend).