hillb

any one have any idea of the value of a 74 motobecane? it hasn't been ridden in about 10 years, is dusty, probably needs a cleaning, tune-up, 19" frame. would like to find it an appreciated home. thanks

* jack *

- what model?
- what components?
- pics would help

need more info... could be a 10$ bike, could be worth a lot more...
lots of junky Motos out there... but a few models are actually collectible...

mswantak

Depends on what area you live in, too. Where I am, even a Nomade or Mirage in good shape will fetch $100.

hillb

it's a "mirage" model, says made in france, it is a ten speed, and I can't remember what gear package it came with. I paid about 175. new in 1974, and I'd like to sell it locally (portland, or) if I can figure out what it's worth. I can get a pic this weekend. thanks, Hillary

hillb

Hi,

I live in Portland, Or, and it's a Mirage model, not in perfect shape, but not bad, say above average? thanks. Hillary

mike

As of now, most of the old ten-speeds don't carry much value. They are terribly under-appreciated today. I am certain that most of the older imported European and Japanase bicycles from the 1970's and 1980's are much better than % of the Chinese junk being bought and sold in America these days.

I am sure that if there was a demand for it, the Chinese could shift to better quality, but I have been to China and I visited many Chinese bicycle factories. You cannot find good modern bikes in China today. Most of what is available today is the same junk they are sending to us. The Chinese do have some very nice old-style rod brake machines of nice quality - oh beautiful. I own one which is in storage in China. It is like an old Mercedes - luxury right down to the springer leather saddle.

Anyway, if you can get $100 for your old Motobecane, take it. Otherwise, you can get them here in good shape for $25.00.

* jack *

You live in Portland, so I would put it on Craig's List as a 'good candidate for fixed-gear conversion'...
ask for $100 or best offer. Don't spend any money on a tune-up, just clean it up as nicely as you can.
If you were the only owner, and the componentry is all original 1974 stuff, I would mention that in the ad also.

hillb

thanks Mike,

I am the original owner, and am going to just clean it and put it up for sale and maybe someone will know what they are buying. Hillary

-=(8)=-

I just missed a 100.00 Moto on ebay that was probably only worth 40.00
but to indulge my love of old steel and stem shifters it would have been
worth it, to me. Excellent priorities, huh
Anyway....More people like me are out there. You wont have any problem
getting rid of it

Swimjim

I bought that same bike off ebay this spring for my daughter. A '74 Motobecane Mirage. It had Suntour equipment on it that was such a mess I discarded it and put shimano from an eigthies vintage bike. Now that it shifts and brakes and is a twelve speed its a nice ride. I paid $39.00 for what I'd consider a frame, fork and handle bars.

Jim

outakontroll

can you post some detailed pic's that may get some offers right here and now I would like to see it.

EGreen

There is a market for this bike. As mentioned, many of the old ten speeds are being used for fixed gear conversions.

Then there are likely guys like me ...

I recently posted on ny CL specifically requesting and old Motobecan as I needed a 'lock up,' commuter bike as opposed to my new bike that I was advised not to buy a lock for because I shouldn't leave it anywhere/anytime here in NYC.

Why Motobecan? Nostalgia. Because it was my first 'real' bike! recieved when I was about 12-13 in the late seventies. I got an instant response and paid a premium for a well preserved 'Mirage.'

Likely, you'll find other prospects like myself. Maybe not as grateful as to pay $130

A caveat: Now I'm being told not to rest assured that'll not be stolen as the demand/street value is going up due to the fixed gear conversions.

Good luck!

localtalent

Ridiculous, isn't it? I've got an 8-lb lock and chain ($50) for a 30lb bike ($100).