rhufeo

Continuing my search for a road bike and came upon this...

https://slo.craigslist.org/bik/2609889364.html



Tried doing some research on the forums but didn't find too much about Asahi. Emailed the seller and only provided the pic on the listing, but did say that "the bike has Shimano front derraileur, Skylark rear der. Pretty much, the standard parts that were put on the bike when new."

Wondering if anyone could provide any input on if this was a good buy at $180. Thanks in advance!

jet sanchEz

Massive rip off at $180, that is a low end bike that is at least 30 years old.

If the Asahi is in your size range, try these two.

Specialized Sequoia in decent-ish shape for $150:

https://slo.craigslist.org/bik/2607566509.html

Trek made of 531:

https://slo.craigslist.org/bik/2603853323.html

rhufeo

Oh wow thanks, for looking further for me. I'm guessing the trek would be a better buy -- Do you have any other input on the Trek 531? I'm not really concerned with the price range, so long as it would be worth the asking price.

jet sanchEz

The number 531 means that the frame and fork are constructed out of Reynolds 531 tubing, which is a very good thing, it would have been a mid to high end model back when it was made. The Shimano 105 components are also quite good and durable, they are the third from the top behind Dura Ace and Ultegra.

If you are looking for a 56cm frame and there is no rust or any other problems with the bike, it would be a good buy at the asking price of $250---so you should ask for $200

wrk101

That Specialized is a roaring great deal. Highly sought after bike. The Trek is not bad either.

TugaDude

Both bikes are good values and the Trek has been deleted, so it is sold. Maybe you got it? If so, tell us how you like it.

rhufeo

I wasn't able to check out the Trek bike, but I am going to check out the Specialized bike today after class. And after what wrk101 said about it being a good deal, I'm pretty optimistic about it.

I'm not the most knowledgeable person when it comes to bikes, so I should've asked if a 58 cm frame is right for me (accoring to the asahi post it was -- I'm 5'9") So on that note, is the Specialized bike alright at 24" for the frame size?

If so, what should I look for when I go check out the bike, other than rust and what not? Thank you all again for your help.

wrk101

Too big for you.

Get sizing dialed in first, then start chasing deals. Google bike sizing, there are an endless number of opinions out there, but I do not think there is a single one that puts someone 5-9 on a 24inch frame. But I could be wrong. I am 5-11 (but I have short legs) and I typically ride a 22inch frame.

TugaDude

+1, too big. Personally, I have longish legs and am 5'11 1/2" and can comfortably ride a 24" with about a handfull of seatpost. My Bianchi is a 22.5" frame and I like the way it fits also. At 5'9", I would anticipate you needing a 56 cm bike.

RaleighSport

+2 I'm 5'9" and I actually have average legs.. I tend to ride 21 inch frames.. and even they seem snug at times.

rhufeo

Thanks again all! The search continues...