Many of the long term contributors to this C&V forum can strip a frame at a leisurely pace in an hour. It takes some time to clean and photograph parts, but it less time then reassembling, tuning, and getting an overhauled bike picture and ride perfect, not to mention the purchase of new consumables.

Overall, the market is sluggish IMHO, in part because the shift to mobile Internet platforms equalizes all the photos on craigslist.

I haven't picked up a craigslist/ebay bike since the beginning of November 2016, a clean Jamis MTB to flip or keep in the ADK. I haven't acquired a"keeper" since August 2016. I haven't tried to sell since November either.

There are plenty of optimistic sellers out there, in NJ and in Michigan, some who keep posting the same bike, month-after-month, and in some cases, year after year, including the yellow Del Romi somewhere in NJ/NY for $400 and the damaged RB-1 in Detroit for $700. Over 80% are not in front row, ready-to-ride condition, but the prices can be out of sight. I scan every day, but have become more selective as space is tight.

I enjoy all aspects of this hobby/activity; riding, wrenching, buying, selling, and making new friends here combine for a rewarding past time. I've learned far more here than I have contributed.

Refurbishing bikes for sale allows me to keep the collection part of the hobby revenue neutral and maintain the bikes I ride in great condition.