jpaschall

This just popped up locally. This person seems to believe they've got a diamond in the rough, so talking them down seems unlikely, but I'd like to get some help with an evaluation:

70's French racing bike

Ex Pres 

First thing I'd check is the seattube size (I'd assume 28.0 metric) compared to the seatpost diameter. If ST=28.0, you'd want 26.4 or 26.6 for the post. If not, I'd probably just pass. It does have interesting components for a non-derailleur hanger bike, though.

oddjob2

Poor indoor photos, but a nice looking ride, though root beer is not my favorite color. IMHO, for a Vitus frame with Nuovo Record, Mafac, and a Brooks or Ideale saddle, the asking price is okay. However, I would think the tubular rims limits the number of prospective buyers. Aim for mid $200's, but don't let it get away.

repechage

The saddle can fetch $80-120 or more on eBay. Bertin would make models to spec so the closest bike in my mind is a C-34. $300. is a little steep but not outrageously so. I would look at the bike in person, evaluate the drive line wear, these bikes would have French hub threads at this point, locating a French threaded freewheel is possible but might set you back $60. or more as most likely it will be coming from France. On the plus side it looks more dirty than oxidized.

repechage

The bike has a mix of Reynolds and virus tubes, I think the main triangle is butted, 26.4.

jpaschall

It's not my size, afraid it might be too big for the friend I have in mind as well. The French idiosyncracies are also a concern (crank will need a special puller, French threading, etc.). Will have to pass I think. Too bad, nice bikes of this vintage are rare in my market.

inkandsilver

Nice looking bike, but you'd need it to fit. Nice of the seller to treat us to both right-side-up and upside-down NDS photos.

daf1009

I agree with others...even for flipping and/or stripping down...this is not too bad of a deal...the interesting thing about "French" parts is that people are, generally, always looking for them! I have found them to get some higher prices than standard size parts...just have to be patient on selling them...you won't get rich...but you might very well add to the overall fund...if you are into that...

And...probably not many people willing to buy at the listed price...so...you might give it a couple days...and then see about negotiating with the seller...in person, of course...

oddjob2

Really, virus tubes? Were they clocked at 103 degrees temp? Does it need a 3 week isolation period?

repechage

BF spell check, vitus becomes virus.

Maybe we can collectively submit some new words for their dictionary?

Campagnolo finally made it in.