Old 11-12-09 | 02:32 PM
  #7  
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kbjack
Makeshift
 
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 618
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From: Ann Arbor, MI

Bikes: 2002 Bianchi Vigorelli, 2002 S-works CX, 1973 Raleigh Super Course conversion, 1979 Raleigh Competition, 1973 Raleigh Professional Track, 1980 Austro Daimler Inter-10

Looks to be in good shape. A few things you should check for: any "wrinkling" in the tubes or stress marks in the paint just behind the head lugs--this can indicate front end damage; fork alignment (make sure the fork tracks with the head tube); dents and dings--these usually affect the value more than the integrity of the frame.

Also, if you're feeling extra OCD, bring some allen or box wrenches (depending on what kind of seat binder bolt it has) and check to make sure both the seat post and the stem can be removed/adjusted easily. If the thing has been outside for part or all of its life these will tend to bind up (this doesn't look to be the case based on photos). If they do stick, it's not necessarily a deal-killer. A little (or a lot of) work and you should be able to remove them, but it can be a good way to talk the seller down on price--you have to put extra labor into getting the bike in shape and sellers should be willing to make a price reduction based on this fact.
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