pigpuddle

Hello again everyone,

So I've recently come across this bike, a Moto Super Mirage. There are a few other really helpful threads here about trying to date these things, and whoo boy am I lost on this one. Even if it doesn't fit, the research side of my brain just wants to figure this thing out.

Now, from the looking at the pictures, and this info, and looking through some catalogs, I have no idea where to date this; it does not seem to me like this can have all original components, like the seller has stated. The first big clue is in the additional info given by the seller to me, that it has Shimano Deore derailleur and Suntour shifters. If the downtube shifters are stock, it has to be at least from 1981. However, from the catalogs it looks like all the Super Mirages of this vintage have center-pull brakes, which this does not. So I'm thinking this is more of a frankenbike. He's not the original owner, and I don't think he rode it very much.

Thoughts? I'm guessing the asking price is quite higher than it should be based on the mixed components, but I'm no expert.

zukahn1

Based on the Suntour parts it was made in the late 70's early 80's I would guess this one is from 1980 or so. It is not in what I would consider great condition or original. I see a changed RD, a lot of surface rust dirt on parts, loose cables, missing brake part's and just a general beat up worn look to the bike.These where just OK bikes basically a step above entry level and worth only $200-250 or so in excellent ready to ride condition. I would say this one is worth about $150 or so as presented.

pigpuddle

Gotcha. Thanks! I don't think this bike is really what I'm looking for then.

oddjob2

Early 1980s, 82-83, given the Sakae cranks. There probably is a 2 digit date on the crank arms. High tensile frame, needs a full overhaul and lots of cleaning. FMV of no more than $100 as shown.

Small frame for a 5'2"-5'5" rider.

OldsCOOL

I had an '80 Super Mirage and this one is definately a parts bin bike. Cranks were panto'd, rear derailleur was a Suntour V-GT, stem shifters, center pull brakes, etc.

CuttersRidge

Though one may be able to find Motobecane Mirages cheap, it does seem many are now selling in the $200 range.

Let's just go with the Milwaukee/Chicago Craig's List, I see them listed from $80 to $335:

https://milwaukee.craigslist.org/sea...a?query=mirage

Los Angeles, $250 and $300 and one $100.

https://losangeles.craigslist.org/se...a?query=mirage

https://phoenix.craigslist.org/search/bia?query=mirage

Phoenix, $160 and $390.

Denver, $100, $125, $200, $300

https://denver.craigslist.org/search/bia?query=mirage

Atlanta, $125, that $300 one is a 2000s one.

https://atlanta.craigslist.org/search/bia?query=mirage

So, all over really; I'd set out trying to find a low cost Mirage but they are selling often now, it seems around $200; I'd think $250 is too high unless there was something unique about it.

I've read people equate them to Raleigh Grand Prixs; perhaps that was their competition in the day.

bikemig 

I seen hi tensile steel motos like this and pug list on CL for $200 plus. Then they sit and sit and sit. You can do better at this price.

oddjob2

Asking prices have nothing to do with selling prices, unless you happen to know no sellers are discounting. I would say 80% of bikes on CL are priced more than 20% over fmv.

CuttersRidge

Thanks! You are very knowledgeable on these things and I enjoy reading your posts. I did a lot of extra work there really that I shouldn't have. I will know better next time!