OP you've changed the equation a bit. Any rider who gets 26k out of a bike simply has to lovingly maintain it. So it may well be a nice bike with a lot of life left in it. $500 worth? Um, no. Further, remember that some of the older (wider spaced/chained) drivelines are more durable. But not , generally, 26k worth of durability. So: New bike with no soul and warranty or proven success that's well past it's prime?