kraanda

I have a Trek 420 I purchased new in '86 and the local bike shop has condemned the
spindle / cassette (rear gear assembly). I really enjoy the bike but I'm not sure I want to spend the time and effort to rebuild said assembly.

If I sell it like it is, what's it's value? ie: parts, frame etc.

ps: What would you estimate it would cost to fix it?

Phil_gretz

You may need to find another bike shop. They made the repair sound more expensive and difficult than the alternative...wait...buy a NEW bike, right? Please...

Did your LBS "condemn" the "spindle" and the "cassette" (I'm searching for their exact words, here.)?

If you have a bent or broken rear hub axle, that can be readily replaced. With the correct tools and a replacement axle of the correct length, this is a 30 minute job. The axle can be had for about $10.

If you have problems with the freewheel, then you might be able to re-use it with some maintenance, and you may not. It will depend on what's going on with it. It it is worn, then you will be replacing both it and your chain.

A new good quality freewheel can be sourced for $30 or so. Your chain will be ~$15 if you look at eBay closely.


So, a little more information about what the bike shop actually said to you - quote them as accurately as you can. Also, a photo of the offending parts would be helpful...

Worst case, you can get this bike back up and running in no time. If that's what you want to do. You'll have to find someone you trust to perform the labor, though, because it sounds like you're not too familiar with this type of work.

A local bike cooperative, where they assist you in doing your own repairs with guidance and use of their tools for a fee/donation? Or another bike shop that has a better reputation for repair and maintenance of older bikes, not just selling modern bikes.

bent-not-broken

The frame apears to be in very nice contion and with all original parts. That is a $200 to $300 dollar bike, depending on the repairs needed. As mentioned parts should be around $50 and it depends on who does the repairs for the labor $'s.

kraanda

Hey, thanks for your input, I appreciate it! You've renewed some hope in my for my bike. I'll get some more info on exactly what the problem is and be back to you.

randyjawa 

I recently sold a Trek 420 for $175.00 but it had a very large frame, something that can and does detract from a vintage road bicycle's value. The repair you speak of should come in at under $50.00, in my opinion. Were I to do the work for some, I would charge fifty bucks and for that they would get the freewheel and the installation. It takes a very short period of time to fit a new freewheel and tune the rear derailleur to match.

auchencrow

A clean Trek 420 in road ready condition is easily a $300 bike.
The 420 is reviled only for having a Helicomatic hub - despite the fact that these were one of the smothest running hubs available BITD.

Unfortunately, they did not stand up to hard use very well, and as Thrifty Bill suggested, you'll ned to replace it with something else if there is anything arye with it, given that new replacements are virtually non-existent.

I would however, seriously question whether there is anything wrong with it at all: If your LBS referred to it as a "cassette" then chances are, they're absolutely clueless, and there is nothing wrong with your hub that new grease and bearings won't cure.

https://www.borgercompagnie.com/helic...technical.html

tmh657

+1 +/- I have sold 3 420's, an early 80's model, a later 80's and a 420 Mixte. They are popular and very cool, IMO. Check it carefully. Clean it till it looks new. It will be a happy thing.

auchencrow

Good looking Trek, tmh!

bikemig 

Good looking bike. Worst case scenario is you have to buy a new rear wheel and a freewheel and those aren't that expensive. I'm a little surprised that the LBS did not give you some repair options. Even if the mechanic was totally confused by the helico cassette, the shop should have been talked to you about a replacement wheel.

Rickyflowe74

I'm new to this site and wanted to add that my 1980 420 (bought new) is still a dream to ride, the Helicomatic hub has never been a problem. I've always serviced this bike myself and other than normal wear and maintenance items (plus a rear derailleur) have not had any problems. It is not my primary bike, but it is my touring rig. Stripped down it is a great climber, mine has the 14-36 rear 6 spd. cluster.RF

Cowboywyatt

I purchased a 420 4 years ago as a primary for bike for around town. As time went by I purchased a carbon Fuji for heavy road use.
. When I purchased the 420 there were a few issues and all were from use. The cassette needed replaced as did the stem and handlebars. I have a 7 speed Shimano cassette and FSA headset and handlebars wrapped with white Fizik Bar Tape. The shifters are indexed and it came with Bontrager Race wheels with blades spokes.
. This bike will be at the Highpoint Gran Fondo this weekend because of a 14% grade thrown into the middle of the route.
. The Trek should work better than an all out racing road bike because of the gearing. The Trek is significantly heavier than my carbon racer.
. Next week is Chicago Skokie on a flat water level route. Carbon for sure. I'm in Ohio.
. My local bike shops take good care of me. One mechanic yesterday told me my Trek is worth 50. I'm keeping it in my livery for my use and take good care of it. On a side note all updates and new parts including headlights and tail lights cost me $1,400 total and that is 8 tail lights and 2 good Lezyne headlights. I still need to replace the crank bearings and may replace the BioPace crank. I'm told it is hard on knees. I will figure that out this weekend.