Gitane Defi frame 1985-6
 

Firstly I was wondering about the value of this http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/hn...319550028.html

$100 seems too steep for the condition the frame is in- scratched decals, scrapes, but (hopefully) little rust. Would a $40-50 offer be fair? I've attached some info about the original bike from http://www.gitaneusa.com/catalogues02.asp

Secondly, I was wondering if I'd be able to use the larger 27" wheelset from my broken-framed donor bike (a Sekai 1000 converted to a singlespeed). The Defi originally ran 700c wheels. Should I maybe bring a wheel with me if I look at it? Anything else to be wary of?

Thanks for your time.

Screwed up FG/SS project just ok steel frame $50 max value. In my opinion just don't buy FX/SS conversion projects or bikes while some maybe OK bikes they are horriable values typically cost 2x what there worth to make them into either decent geared bike or nice FG/SS. Basically 90% of the FG/SS stuff on CL is just pretty scrap metal. For basically the same price ounce sorted out or less you can buy a fairly decent proper road bike with gears or a new late model proper SS/FG.

Don't know the market up there but remember it is still winter and that affects asking and actual pricing. I think your offer would likely be rejected. But in your favor is the fact that it has been listed for at least 14 days.

Regarding wheels, probably will fit. Might affect whether you can use fenders, if that matters. Pretty small frame, will it fit?

Gitane Defi frame 1985-6
 

The seatpost is worth $30-40. One of the best designed seatposts around.

Rear, drive side dropout looks spread (it widens as it goes out)--- I would look at carefully before making any offer.

I'll keep an eye on the dropout if I end up looking at the bike. I texted an offer of $40 but haven't heard back yet. Since it's a steel frame is that something that can be bent back? Or should I walk away if I see it's damaged?

It's good to know the seatpost is a keeper. I've never seen a clamp like that so I was a bit nervous. Should I take a multi-tool along to make sure the post isn't seized?

I agree with you zukhan1 when you say the costs can quickly add up when adopting someone's failed project. But I have most of the parts this Gitane is missing ready to bolt on from my Sekai. Hopefully that will keep the price from spiraling out of control. We'll see if they accept my bid. If not, I'll keep on looking. Maybe the spring thaw will unearth some decent deals.

You can thread a bolt in the threads for the derailleur, fasten a wheel in the drops, and bang on the hanger with a hammer. It's not a delicate job. I would then check the rear triangle and drops for alignment and re-align as needed. I really can't tell much from the pic, but it looks spread to me, so I'd be looking at that pretty seriously.

I would check thouroughly for cracks in the drops and area before buying the bike, and if the drops are spread, bargain down.

However, if he is asking 100$ he's unlikely to take 40$, so the point may be moot.

I am pretty sure that thing has been listed for quite some time. I wouldn't be surprised if he took your offer which does seem about right.

You'd think so digger531, but his counteroffer was $80. I left him to keep dreaming that dream.

The search continues, and thanks to everyone for your help.

I have a question.... If your simply looking for a frame to replace your broken SS/FG conversion (btw how did it break?) why not spend some money and get a real SS/FG frame? maybe something of a little better quality?

http://bikeisland.com/cgi-bin/BKTK_S...ls&ProdID=1681

Good question. If I went the new route, I'd opt for a complete Kilo of some kind. I just think a new frame deserves better than the frankenparts currently on my Sekai. Its frame cracked right below where the right seat stay is welded to the seat tube. As much as I loved and rode the bike, the Sekai 1000 was a lower end model and isn't worth taking it to a frame builder to repair and repaint.

My plans vary from bike to bike that I see for sale. If I found a nicer geared bike I'd keep it as close to original as possible (for example this Bridgestone 600 that's been sitting stagnantly on Craigslist for months http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ra...329313483.html ). But the lower down the line the bike goes, the more I think about simplifying it (example: a 1984 Schwinn World Sport). I guess part of the fun of Craigslist is that you never know what will turn up. Maybe the spring thaw will bring out a better selection of bikes.