Look for bikes with weird frame sizes. Bought a 63cm Univega Gran Rally with Shimano 600, a nice aftermarket seat, and a great set of rims. Sold the frame off fer cheap.

I have respect the bottom of the market bikes. The average bike commuter in my hood is on an old BSO, not a fancy boutique bike.


Retro Grouch:

"Rear wheels are gold. Fronts not so much.
Brake parts are gold. Derailleurs and shifters, not so much.
Cables and housings you will probably have to source new ones."

Pretty much sums it up. My beater mountain bike was sourced from a junkman. I'm using friction shifters. Makes life easy.