bamab2

I have a friend in a nearby state that asked me about a bike he has found. 1987 Nishiki Tri-A. Looks to be pretty much original. Even the saddle, I think. New tires and tubes. Looks to be in pretty good shape. Only have this one pic so far. Specs look good. What would you guys value this for a rider? Quality opinions? Thanks.

oddjob2

Pretty close in quality to a Centurion Ironman, but way lower on the cool factor, unless it has a paint job like the f+f I will be selling soon. Shimano SIS or 600 I'm guessing from the RD? I'd estimate FMV @ $250 +/- for your friend's bike.

xiaoman1 

I personally like the subtle understated looks of the Tri-A's they are like the Cannondale Black lightening in my book.
Group is Shimano 600 with turbo saddle correct? If so OJ is about right on the price.
TEHO on the "Cool" Factor...I think DSIM and TRI's are fine bikes and have them both. Yes the TRI will take a little longer to sell but in my opinion well worth it to both buyer and seller.
Regards, ben

daf1009

I concur with @xiaoman1 on the understated looks. The Centurions (sorry Robbie) tend to be a bit garish...and, in my old age, I have looked more to the subtle looks. The bike itself should be a great rider, looks in good shape as well.


In my market, Atlanta, and this time of year, I would say only about $200...you could start at the $250 that @oddjob2 suggested...and then have negotiating room to the $200...

T-Mar

Yes, it is a 1987 Nishiki Tri-A Equipe. The frame is a mix of Tange #1 & #2. The component group is largely Shimano New 600EX, though it was spec'd with Sante derailleurs. This one appears to have Shimano New 600EX SIS, for the rear derailleur. The condition appears to excellent. However, whenever i see tape on the top tube, just behind the lugs, I'm always cautious. The tape may only be protecting the finish from a pump clamp (?) but I'd still check it out for tube damage.

Given the time of year, the price will vary substantially depending on the market. $200 might be all it fetches in a state like Minnesota, while it could top $300 in California or Texas. FYI, original MSRP was $750.00 US. They may have the recognition of a Centurion Ironman but they are a better value.

texaspandj

Whenever you see the word triathlon or tri on a a 80s bike you know its gonna be a mid level performance bike and should be valued accordingly.
The color scheme on this bike resembles the Panasonic dx3000.
Although the Centurion Ironman color schemes aren't for everyone, fortunately they come in solid and also more understated colors as well.

bamab2

Thanks all. As always, great info.

rkrenz00

Hey, all, I know this thread is almost a year old, but I came across it while researching a road bike I found abandoned on the grounds of my apartment complex. My intentions are to take it on as a restoration project. I am just a recreational rider with a Trek 7.2FX hybrid that I have only recently cleaned up and pulled off the rack after a year and a half. So, I am looking for thoughts, suggestions and advice on this little project of mine. Unless I miss my guess, judging from the picture posted by @bamab2, it is a 1987 Nikishi Tri-A.

The chain is busted, only has one wheel, and general surface corrosion on the gearing system, etc. Help, please! And thank you!

Picture attached.

thinktubes 

bamab2

I actually ended up with this bike. Well, my son did and it is his rider. He really likes it. He had a mid grade aluminum frame Bikes Direct bike and really prefers the ride of the Nishiki. You should like it. Especially for what it cost. 😊

rkrenz00

Thank you, bamab2. It will take a minute to accomplish, cuz of lacking funds, but it will be a nice project. I am debating if I want to keep it as 18 speed, or add another big gear on each end. Hmmmm...

T-Mar

18 spd? These were 12 speed and it looks stock,in which case you can only add another 4T to the back before you have to change derailleurs.

rkrenz00

I don't know very much at all about bikes, at least not the mechanics of them and how to identify this from that. That said, I do realize I miscounted the gears on the back, hence my miscalculation. Anyway, this is a project in which I will be learning as I go along, by looking for help/guidance/advice from here, as well as the local pro bike shops.

Lucky for me, I am a retired Navy vet, so I get 10% off retail at Performance Bicycle superstore. That will help me save a lot of money, and help me get the hands on learning experience.

bamab2

You've come to the right place. I'm amazed at what the good people on this forum know about vintage bikes. Just search, read, and ask questions. Warning, this is addictive. Enjoy and thanks for your service.

wrk101

Want to save a lot of money? Forget 10% off at Performance Bike, or buying retail at all. Instead, find a co-op and focus on used parts which should cost you more like 10 cents on a dollar.

phtomita

This one from a collector on eBay looks really nice.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Nishiki-Tri...4AAOSwB4BaCx4A