Chef151

I have found a great bike for sale, a mid 80s de rosa bike, with downtube shifters, 105, in like new condition(says the owner). I've set a budget for my wife's first road bike (this is for her), up to $500.

I have all but closed a deal on a 2001 trek 2200 with 105, but this bike is calling to me, as we have looked for a while for a steel framed Italian bike for her to no avail until now. Now that ive found one, everything seems perfect on it, except the down tube shifting.

So now for the question, could I convert this bike to brighter style shifters(tiagra or 105, even used would be just fine with her) and still stay in my budget? The bike is being offered for $250.

Thanks!