Vintage bicycle buying for dummies
I've been looking around for a vintage 10 speed bike to add to my very meager collection of bikes. I do not know a great deal about brands, frames and components and need to compile a mental reference checklist on what to look for when I see a bike for sale.
What I think I know consists of this:
If I see a Reynolds sticker on the frame it should be a no-brainer.
If the bike is full of campy components it should be a no-brainer.
Front release hubs on the front and back are usually a good sign.
Suicide brake levers usually indicate a lesser bike.
A better saddle, such as a brooks, is a good sign.
Are the above items generally correct?
What else is there to add to the list?
Two weeks ago I came across a nice looking Peugot at a Goodwill for $14.95, but the frame was too small and I let it go. The only negative indicator on the bike were the suicide brake levers. Otherwise it had a beat up leather saddle, some sort of chrome molly frame, mafac brakes, a simplex derailuer and looked like it was in decent condition.