Info on this Diamondback Ascent EX
 

Hey guys I wanted to know some more information on this bike (Year, cost, etc.). It's on craigslist and the seller wants 125. Do you think it's worth it? Any help would be great. Thanks!
-Diamondback Ascent EX
http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=516469

You should try here:
Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries
Probably not worth it. Most mid to lower end bikes don't hold much value and unless the bike is in immaculate condition (like NOS) I probably wouldn't pay anything over $80 and especially would be leery on craigslist of buying a bike in case that bike is not theirs or needs a lot of work.

There are many good deals on CL, no need to be leery. OP, figure out what size bike you need before you go shopping if you dont already know it. Knowing your size is very important. The owner of the bike in the pic for instance is clearly way too large for that frame, with how high the stem and seatpost are jacked up. That bike in the area I live in wouldnt be worth $125, btw. Probabaly more like $50-75 depending on condition.

http://www.bikeforums.net/singlespee...ore-after.html

Thread on a Diamondback Ascent; Tange one of the stickers say.

1988 according to this catalog page (the chain stay rear brake gave me a good place to start).Bikeman: Catalogs Revisited 1988 Diamond Back Mountain Bikes

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=516477

That fluted seat post looks like a shorter replacement and is probably above the minimum insert.

Price depends heavily on where you are. Photos can be flattering, but at least it doesn't have any visible paint blemishes, rust spots, dents, and the decals are in good shape.

I'd say about $80-$100

If its in good cosmetic and mechanical condition, I would consider $125 to be quite fair for both parties.
If it hasnt been touched in almost 30 years and needs new grease, tires, and cables- that price is high.

New cables and all bearings repacked will run you $100+ at a shop. Tires will set you back about $50.


At the same time, if you were to buy the bike for $75, get new tires, and have a shop repack the bearings and add new cables then you would have a perfectly running trail bike with Tange double butted chromoly tubing and Exage components for about $250 in total.
If it fits you and you like the look, you would be hardpressed to find a new bike with that quality for even double the price. There are other 'deals' to be found on CL. But most of the time they will need a lot of work and unless you know how or want to learn how, the repairs will cost more taking it to a shop.


I will list a 91 Diamondback Ascent in a couple months that will have been completely refurbished and have new gr
ips, cables, and tires. Ill probably price(and sell) it at $150. Based on what I see day after day on CL, that will be the exception to the norm as itll be priced $20-40 higher than many vintage mountain bikes with similar components, but it will be ready to ride too. I mention this because its the exception to the norm(at least around me).

Not a bad price considering all the work done and it is ready to ride! Too bad you live farther than I can travel haha

Thank you to everyone that provided me with information. It is much appreciated!