Shamus_Loophole
09-10-12, 08:55 PM
Hello bikeforums! I'm new to more-than-recreational-cycling and have never owned, let alone ridden, a road bike before, but I've been browsing this forum for the past few weeks on some information regarding '70s and '80s ten speeds and fixed gears, and have found it's been a great resource. After scouring craigslist here in NC for several weeks, I think I've finally found something worth pursuing, but I need some help figuring out the true value of this bike. It's an '83 Team Fuji (asking $170) that I had originally thought was in really good condition, but have recently learned it has a little more rust than I would like, and a few more scratches than I had hoped. I've read on here they can fetch $250 when in near perfect condition, but as you'll see it is not. I've been going back and forth with what I believe are two, not-especially-computer-savvy retirees about 1.5 hours away (hence not just traveling to see it immediately). They put up a pictureless ad with little to no information and incorrect dimensions (I've found out it is actually just about my size at 55cm). I've spoken with them on the phone and they are very well-intentioned and sweet, and afterwards they sent me these tiny pictures. I've asked that they hold it for me until we figure out how to meet and they've agreed. Anyways, as you can see there is some rust on the gears and various screws, and some decent scratches about it, but I think all is in working order (I'm waiting on a response as to the shape of the wheels). I'm seriously considering converting it to a fixed gear and plan on using it for fun and for commuting/transportation. That being said, should I just dismiss the state of the gearing components and focus more on the frame and fork? I was hoping on cleaning it up and getting to know it by riding it geared while I accumulate the parts needed for the conversion... anyways that was a bit longer than I had intended, but all feedback is appreciated!
tl;dr: I'm new to bikes...it's not in terrible condition and the seller is asking $170...I need help deciding what to offer.
tl;dr: I'm new to bikes...it's not in terrible condition and the seller is asking $170...I need help deciding what to offer.
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