jdeane4, all true here - you could get a great vintage bike for $500 (or much less) if you hunt diligently. But also remember that you'll probably need to spend some of that budget after the purchase. Many (otherwise good) vintage bikes get sold not ready to ride, needing at least a tune-up, often new tires, and sometimes more. I was lucky enough to get my vintage bike for free, and then spent hundreds fixing it up. No complaints - I'd do it again, minus a few lamebrained parts purchases (curse you ebay!).