Rutger

Mates,

I'm getting back into cycling after 20 years (kids!) but don't want to invest a ton of money yet. I've come across a bike at a local non-profit bike shop (they recondition older bikes) and wonder if you guys have any advice. It's a steel framed Kestrel with Shimano 600 components. Gotta be at least 27 years old. Very nice shape, barely any scuffs, Mavic wheelset, doesn't look as if it were flogged and needs no work except a new seat and updated pedals. They want $600 for it. Any thoughts?

Rut

roadcrankr

Kestrel only ever made carbon fiber framesets. You possibly came upon an early monocoque version.
The particular model makes a difference. I like the 200Sci and 200 EMS. Nice riding frame.
$600 ain’t terribly high, if the funds contribute to the shop’s mission. Look closely at wear & tear.

Rutger

Thanks!!!! I was waffling over it and got a Jamis instead from the same shop, same price, but have buyer's remorse. Part of the Kestrel attraction is the aesthetics, and compared to the Jamis it seems like a more serious bike. And yes, I realized it must be carbon. I figured for $600 bucks I can't lose.

roadcrankr

Jamis makes good stuff, too. You said Shimano 600, which makes me think downtube shifters.
I recommend brake lever shifters. These came out in the early-90's, but your shop could've cobbled anything together.
Get the model number, pal.

Bianchigirll 

I would never suggest a newcomer buy a used carbon bike, there is just too much to consider/inspect.

Frankly I also think the steel is better for e new/returning rider as it can be more forgiving over the bumps and holes, which you really should be avoiding .

wrk101

Depends where you live, but around here, $600 is quite HIGH for a co-op bike. I've bought and donated a lot of bikes to/from co-ops.

And BG is right, $600 for a carbon bike, you bet, you CAN lose. If you miss any damage, watch out.

To those on a tight budget, I continue to recommend a rigid steel frame MTB. Add smooth tires, and they are efficient enough. Later, you can always buy a nice used road bike.

roadcrankr

The OP said the Kestrel looks very clean. And it comes from a bike shop.
No doubt, they spent some time inspecting it from all angles.
Kestrel built monocoque frames in the 90's. No lugs or glued joints.
They bonded layers of carbon fiber sheets in multiple directions for added strength and rigidity.
My '94 SCi took some major spills and abrasions. I kept riding it as a commuter for many years.
Retired it to my garage a few years back, where the frameset hangs on the wall for fond remembrance.