Lanovran

Howdy, all. I have a 1987 Fuji Sagres road bike, 57 or 58cm frame size, with various upgrades, some unique custom paint designs on the frame and fork (not my work - it was like that when I purchased it via CL two years ago), and a bit of damage to the top and down tubes near to the head tube. I am hesitant to even try selling the bike, since it's my first road bike, and the first that I've really put a lot of my own work into upgrading and refitting. If I do decide to try selling it, however, I'd like to see if I can get some advice on what it might be worth.

Here are some photos:


I paid $140 for the bike to its previous owner. The only original parts of this bike left now are the frame, fork, stem, and handlebar. The things I added to it include a gently used Shimano Dura-Ace 7400 set comprised of derailleurs, levers/shifters, and crankset (relatively low mileage, obtained via eBay for around $400), and brand new Shimano RS61 TLR wheels (MSRP $499.99). I've also since given it a new Velo Senso Miles R saddle, a new chain and 8-speed Shimano cassette, new Tektro dual-pivot brakes (nutted) with new pads, new Bontrager gelcork bar tape, new cables and housing, bottle cage, and a new zero-offset aluminum Origin8 seatpost (this bit was purely for fitting reasons). It also currently has a pair of Shimano A530 pedals, but I'm undecided on whether I'll leave those on there or switch them out for something else.

Now, here's the problem part... I have had one wipe-out while riding this bike, though as far as I'm aware, I didn't impact anything; however, there is frame damage right up near the head tube that is consistent with a head-on impact. Whether it was like that when I bought it and I simply didn't notice, or it happened at some point later, I honestly don't know. The point is moot, in any case, 'cause it's there.

Here's the damage I'm talking about. There's a bit o' bending 'n' buckling going on.


The frame is made from Fuji's Va-Lite chromoly steel, and there doesn't appear to be any damage to head tube or fork. The bike still rides very well, and I'm not greatly concerned about the frame failing. I do recognize it as a potential issue, though, so I would welcome any input or advice about it. In any case, I'll look forward to hearing what folks around here might think. Cheers!

dailycommute

I would say the HT/frame damage is pretty bad, I would not ride it or feel good selling it to someone who might. Probably will not fail casually pedaling the hood but if you were doing some speed and hit any decent crack, hole, heave that bottom tube could fail at a minimum of a nasty wreck if wheel came back further. You could salvage all those parts and use for future projects which is what I would do or sell as is w/ disclaimer.

oddjob2

0 value to frame. Take the parts off and use on another build.

If you need a 62 cm frame, I have several.

Lanovran

Crap. Yeah, I'm inclined to agree with you both. It really chaps, though, since I really like the frame and I have no idea how or when it got that damage. 62cm is way too big for me, alas. I've begun searching for another suitable frame to switch my components onto.

oddjob2

I have a 1984 or 1985 Sagres frame available and it may be a 58cm. It could use a repaint.

Lanovran

I appreciate the offer, but 58cm is even a bit too big (one upside to finding a new frame - I can get one that fits better). My Sagres always was just a wee bit too big for me, even if I could ride it well enough for the most part, so I'm actually hoping to find a 56cm frame.

Lanovran

If anyone is curious, I picked up a very nice 1985 Nishiki road frameset to replace my damaged Fuji frame. The new frame is a higher-end model, maybe an International or Prestige, but I've no way to tell (it has a newer custom paint job, so no obvious logos or model name on it). It's also a 55cm frame instead of a 57, so it'll be a better fit once I get it built up.

jjames1452 

I am pretty sure I have around a 62cm (it is at least 58-62) Fuji Sagres frame in storage.
PM me if you want me to dig it out and send pictiures. I am pretty sure I only paid $15 for it - so I do not have a bunch invested.
As I recall, it wasn't in great shape, but had no dents or bends.

If you want it, I will not be able to get to the storage unit for another week or two.

Lanovran

Thank you for offering, but that won't be necessary. I just got that Nishiki frame yesterday afternoon, and it will do nicely.

jjames1452 

That is awesome. I hope it is as nice as the Prestige frame I had. That was an Awesome riding bike. I had a SE grin every time I opened it up. Unfortunately it was a 57 cm and a little too small. And believe me I tried to make it fit. Good luck!

Lanovran

Well, I recently learned that it's actually a Nishiki Team Issue, made of Tange Prestige cro-moly. This was a top-tier bike in its day! It's looking good with the parts swapped off of the damaged Fuji, plus new stem & handlebar, and a new blue Brooks Swallow.

thinktubes 

That looks great - nice job!!!

Murray Missile 

Shame about the FUJI but that Nishiki looks great! Well done..

Lazyass

Hey OP, I know this is an old thread, but do you still have this frame? I'm looking at the same bike for sale, same size as yours. I'm wondering if the steatube is 58 c-t or c-c and also the top tube length.

In the catalog the geometry for the Sagres isn't listed but the Del Ray is and it looks to be the same frame. According to it the seat tube is 58 c-t and the TT is 56.5 which would be good for me. A 58 top tube would be a hair big.

Fuji Segras Commuter Road Bike

Lanovran

I do still have the frame (it hangs on my wall as "art" ). The top tube measures about 56.5cm c-c, and the seat tube length is about 57.6cm from the center of the BB shell to the top of the top tube. It was always a smidge too big for me, but maybe it will work out well for you! Best of luck.

ramzilla

I've actually got an old beater Fuji Del Rey that's got a frame bent the exact same way as your Sagres. I'm still using it & still loan it out. One of my friends must have run into a curb with it or something. I've got no idea how it happened. But, long story short - it's still rideable.