dimsumforone

Hi everyone,

I'm just looking for a bicycle I can ride to get groceries and maybe ride to work once in a while - no more than 13 mile round trip. I'd definitely have to tackle a few hills to get home and need a bicycle that can help me do that and I really like the look of vintage Schwinns. Does this bike seem worthwhile, the price appropriate given that it at least needs to have the gears fixed?

Thanks for any advice!

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/bik/1531199634.html

Esteban32696

In San Fran area, I would thinkm that there is a " strong " market for old Schwinns . That being said, this bike will probably bring that. Sounds like a cable adjustment, etc., may be all it needs. Take a knowledgable bike guy with you to look at it.

dimsumforone

Thanks for the reply. The bike ended up being sold while I was at work, before I got any look at it.

I've seen other Schwinns in the Bay Area being sold more in the $100 to $200 range, but I guess this area can command those prices?

EjustE

Not sure what the price was on that, but these things are pretty heavy (around 30 lbs bare). Add a rack and panniers and you are looking at close to 35 lbs. Also, fairly low end components and not too much of gear variance. If I were you, I would look for a bike with a CroMo frame and a triple up front. Maybe a late 80s/early 90s hybrid. 21 gears, can do hills well, take 700c tires easy to find, full braze ons for racks and fenders and much less expensive than low end road bikes. If it comes with straight bars, you can easily add drops, if that is your thing, but for the use you are describing, nothing beats a hybrid.

wrk101

+1 For your service, I would either get a decent hybrid or an older rigid frame mountain bike. They are pretty much indestructible, and do not weigh a ton like the old Schwinn.

Even around here (not a hot market), old heavy Schwinns sell at a significant premium (2X) to much more competent hybrids and MTBs. The first major hill you ride up, you will appreciate the gearing of the hybrid/mtb.

dimsumforone

The Schwinn I first linked to sold for $50 but needed repairs.

I did some more hunting around Craigslist, what do you think about this bike?

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/bik/1534631153.html

Or any other suggestions?

Thanks again!

dimsumforone

Here's another bike I thought might be what I need:

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/bik/1532303373.html

Bianchigirll 

if it fits you and you want a womans bike I would go and get that trek. those V brakes will be good on the hills