1981 Eddy Merckx
 

Would like to own a Merckx bike, eventually. Still learning about different models and value. See asking prices vary widely. I like the earlier models, but the late 80's/early 90's with the wilder paint schemes are great too. This one has been for sale at $1500 for a few months, at least. Price was recently dropped to $1300. Got a nice collection of parts with maybe some upgrades over the years. I don't know enough about the models to identify this one. What's a fair price?

1981 Merckx


https://scontent-ort2-1.xx.fbcdn.net...a2&oe=5F254BDD

I sold my restored '80 (signature version) for $1100 about 4 years ago. The ask on this one isn't out of line, especially if that's the original paint.

Thanks for the response. Was considering offering $1200 when I start working regularly, again. Glad that seems about right.

If it fits, buy it. That size doesn't come along all that often.

On the other hand, this one is pretty nice:

https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=254646

That is the truth, right there.

I think it's 1982... which doesn't change much.
I would be happy to ask the seller for the factory markings and proof of purchase
The last Merckx is all about Chicago...

Was what we call the Professional the only model in ''81/82?

In addition to Professional, Aero (with flattened tubes), Pista and Cyclocross were also built.

Chicago
 

What is the reference to Chicago about?

Most likely a translation misunderstanding. Whatcha gonna make of it?

That's how I took it.

The oldest EMC in the US can be found in Chicago, where the first EMC sales representative Ochsner was based...
The rest is "translation misunderstanding" as jiangshi says...

I paid 800 for my late 90's Eddie Merckx 7-11 Corsa and then put in 800 more to repaint it, fix the wheels and make it a nice road bike. That is a beautiful frame though and very modern looking for an older bike. That color is super clean. I hope you get it!

Mine is an '85 Corsa Extra SLX.
Original owner repainted it after many years. CyclArt did the paint, so well done.
Built with all Campi, except the crankset which is from VeloOrange w/ 48/34 rings.
Cinelli stem, bars = CdM
Tubular wheels with VeloFlex these days.
If I wanted to sell - $1400 my minimum.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...72ed090158.jpg

Either Corsa Extra or 85... it doesn't connect.
if 85, then Pro SLX
If Corsa Extra - 86
...and it could be a Pro SLX 86 :)
Give me the markings - I will try to solve this problem :)

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...e099d4821f.png
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...d46a27c526.jpg
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...a4aebd1409.jpg
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...287e0cc22a.jpg
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...acb759e4b5.jpg

This is the Pro SLX just before the name of the model was changed to Corsa Extra, the year of production: 1986
In both paintings - beautiful :)

Grateful to have someone on the forum who knows so much about these bikes. Thanks for putting in the time.

How about this one from Belgium? I do not have an image of the serial number.
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...1399bfd658.jpg
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...9c3b59c2ba.jpg
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...4bba212a6b.jpg
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...127ec35479.jpg
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...cfa42810ea.jpg

Nice pictures, but they don't give much information...
pic1: short lug, discontinued since 1989, but found until 1991... This is not the Corsa Extra Max
pic2: slide on top tube used 1984-1991, an unusual number hanger?
pic3: EM fork, used since 1983 in each model - 0 information
pic4: Campagnolo dropout... it's not a 3-Athlete or Strada model.
pic5: this area looks identical on all late 1980s models...
There is not a single element (except for the fork) with an EM engraving or EM production characteristic
It's possible that the frame was painted...
More photos of the whole and details would definitely help (brake bridge, BB cover, seatstay caps, number hanger)

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