bagman8

Hit, I am new to biking but I am also a college student with not a lot of money. I bought a bike on craigslist yesterday for $300. It is a 1999 Jamis Quest that was bought as a left over in 2002. The guy I bought it from rode it for 18 months and then put it in his basement due to a bone spur in his neck. It has Shimano 105 everything and everything works great on it besides the fact that it needs two tires because they are dry rotted from sitting. The guy told me it was a 57cm frame (which would be in the range of what I was looking for) however I discovered that the frame is actually a much smaller 50cm. Standing over the bike I did feel like there was a little bit too much room but I was excited because it was such a good bike and I have been dying to get on the road.
Now obviously I know that this bike is too small for me so these are my questions:
1. What should I do if the guy doesn't give me my money back?
2.Can I resell it for that?
3.Is it worth more than that?
What are your opinions on what I should do?

Phil_gretz

Accept the reality that Craigslist transactions are "as is", and the responsibility on the buyer is to know what you want and be able to identify it. Presumably, you had a chance to inspect it before you handed over the money...

You can ask the seller, but don't be a bit miffed when he says "No way".

You're fortunate that you didn't overpay.

Maybe. If you patiently clean it. Have a friend who is a capable bike mechanic go over it for optimum adjustment (true rims, set brakes properly, check shifting, etc.). Then replace the tires with something in the $10 range per (Performance Strada or CST HP or somesuch).
Replace the bar tape if it needs that. Take excellent photographs (read in C&V forum on how to do this) and make a good, descriptive write up. Have a friend who is an good editor go over your copy. Have your bike friend check your facts. Then...list on C/L

You might be able to get $350-$375. Won't lose a dime.


I just told you. Don't make me repeat myself. Good luck. PG

pdedes

The standover is immaterial, what is the top tube length?

bagman8

51 cm

Phil_gretz

In your listing, make certain to specify that "this bike would best fit someone between 5'3" and 5'7", depending on your body type"

Don't worry. Smaller bikes sell. Remember to list down in Philadelphia and any of the lists adjacent to your area.

caloso

How tall are you, Bagman?

bagman8

I am 5'11" much too big.

caloso

Yeah. Way too big. But have heart, I agree with Phil_Gretz: small bikes sell.

clarkbre

Try to contact him but don't expect a warm and fuzzy return. He has no obligation. For all he knows, you bought the bike for someone that it would fit.

Maybe, maybe not. It's only worth what someone is willing to pay for it.

See above answer.

Try to sell it for what you paid for it and cut your losses. Next time, don't get so excited about a bike that is clearly not your size.