Might buy this bike. Is it worth it?
 

http://atlanta.craigslist.org/nat/bik/2486030922.html

Hey guys,

I'm just now getting into the biking world and looking to buy a used bike and get my feet wet, before I commit to a more expensive bike.I'm not familiar with pricing on older bikes and not sure how they hold their value.

Take a look at this offer and tell me if it's worth the price. If not what should I pay?

Thanks for your time!!!

no

if he paid you $595 to take it, it might be worth it, maybe.

Try this one:

http://atlanta.craigslist.org/eat/bik/2467717991.html

It's probably worth $100 if you wanted to turn it into a rigid singlespeed.

Wow, thanks for the input guys. I would have lost my wallet on the bike. 10 wheels... thanks for the recommendation.

Let us know what you get?

Definitely not worth it. I'm in Atlanta, too, and at least 90% of the Craigslist "deals" I see are awful. People try to sell old and worn down equipment for crazy prices.

I've seen that Giant Rincon on there for a while, now. It might be a decent deal, depending on what you want to do with it. For me, the biggest obstacle in most lower end used mountain bikes is the suspension fork. You might find a nice $500 bike for $200, but even new $500 bikes have crappy forks. So you end up spending at least $200 to put a decent fork on the bike. That's not so bad, as long as it's something you're planning for. Because $200 for a used bike + $200 for a new fork will be a much better ride than a $400 new bike. Also, I usually make an allowance to replace the rear derailleur, too, just in case.

Also, if you find something higher end used, be cautious in assuming the suspension components are in good condition. Suspension is high-wear, and it wouldn't be uncommon to buy a used high end bike only to find out you need to have the suspension components rebuilt.

Blue, great input! I have been shopping in the used market for a while now and am slowly coming to the conclusion that I will buy new.

I have been eyeing that Giant Rincon also, but I want to get a nicer bike. How would I know whether the bike needs a new fork? I would assume by putting pressure on the front end??

If you're willing to go used on a bike, go used on a fork as well. I got a like new PIKE for $185. Same condition Domain for same price.

A Tora 289 could prob. be snagged for $150 or less.

I've seen two or three REALLY good deals on CL in the last couple weeks. But that's not many for that time frame. You have to watch often, know what to look for, and be really fast in the purchase. If you don't have the free time for it, new really is a better way to go.

As for forks, it can be tricky. A used fork may be on its last leg, work just fine when you buy the bike, and then blow out on your first ride. Have to be careful. It definitely shouldn't bottom out when you bounce on it, although if you're a heavy rider it may just need a stiffer spring or more air, depending on fork type.

I've been looking for a used Fox for some time now. Have yet to find a deal that makes it worth the risk. I'm too worried Ill have to rebuild it, so it would have to be like the deal you got...$200 or so. But everyone wants $400+ for their used Fox.

I would be worried about scratching or gouging the frame..either would trash the frame if deep enough.. and thats too much for that old of a bike. Maybe the seller should sell it to the museum of when Schwinn made quality bikes..

Think I'm just going to go with a $5-600 bike from bikesdirect. Maybe a motobecane? Is this a quality brand? I know it's not the highest quality - you get what you pay for.

From the stories I've read, it can be hit/miss. I've actually got a motobecane that I picked up on craigslist dirt cheap. I put a new fork on it which substantially increased my investment, but it rides great. I've never had to deal with bikesdirect though.

Try to get something with at least a Tora fork.