doomridesout

So I found a Motobecane Le Champion on Craigslist. It's a lilac paint job with a Nuevo Record groupset which is definitely in "used but maintained" condition. The drivetrain is in good shape but the brakes clearly have some wear as the bike was used for some loaded touring. My question is not whether this is a nice bike because I know it is.
I am trying to make a little extra money parting it out on eBay... If the parts show obvious wear, and are specced for French sizing, is the bike worth $500 as an investment to flip? I've got the time and tools to take the thing apart and clean everything but there's inevitably signs of wear which will remain. Good deal or will I barely get my money back out?

Lazarus Short

French spec'd parts will be more difficult to sell. The bike itself is worth buying but $500 seems steep. Motobecane had better quality control than Peogeot (owned both). You should also consider that bidding is a bit chilled on eBay these days.

EjustE

Almost no mass produced bike is worth $500 as an investment to flip.

shemtaiah

The Motobecane le Champion was a decent bike. I have a '74 Grand Record that I enjoy riding. You might be able to find someone who liked Motobecanes, and didn't have a le Champion, that would pay $500 for one in very decent condition. I don't follow eBay anymore, but as I recall a good le Champion did well to bring in $300. If you rolled it into any local bike shop I suspect they probably wouldn't give you more than $65 if they would buy it at all. If you are buying to part out and re-sell on eBay then I wouldn't pay much more than $100 for it. A complete Nuovo Record "gruppo" might bring $250. A bare le Champion frame and forks, depending on the size & condition, might bring $100. Remember, buy low -- sell high.

Dyermaker

I have a Team Champion...

My friend had a Le Champion...

Its worth 500 to keep and ride forever, because you will love it.

dudeona3V

I would agree that $500 is too much if you intend to flip it, but fair if you intend to keep it and ride it, depending on the definition of "used but maintained." As pointed out earlier, Le Champions that have seen better days are lucky to fetch $300, however I've seen excellent examples that didn't make reserve with a high bid of $725. I for one cherish mine and would be hard-pressed to part with it for any price. As for the Team, that's a different kettle of fish altogether. Much more rare, definitely more pro (although there is some question as to weather the actual Bic bikes were built by Motobecane, in particular Ocaña's). I would consider $500 for a Team in guideline condition an excellent deal.

wrk101

+1 Forget about flipping. Too expensive.

abarth

That's high for local market, ebay is about right if it is in excellent condition.