JPradun

I just inherited an Miyata Ninety...an 80's bike. Does anyone have any info on this? I don't have an on-road bike, should I keep it or sell it? What can I get for it?

Also, I need the classic style road bars (or whatever theyre called). Anyone know what bars would work that are fairly cheap? My father put on some cruising bars that sit me upright and they are worthless.

Thanks,
James

greybeard87

Drop handlebars are readily and inexpensively available. One thing to consider is the type of brake lever which might have beeen switched out at the same time so you might need some new levers.
Otherwise, and considering that it fits you, you likely have a nice serviceable bike that could be made rideable with a modest investment. Worst case take a picture, measure it, put it on e-bay and see what it'll fetch. Locally, you could list it on Craigslist and unless it is something special would bring $35-$50.

T-Mar

The model 90 was Miyata's entry level lightweight for the period 1983-1988. The specs varied quite a bit, but it is a well built bicycle and excellent value. Provided it has not been abused or worn out, you would be hard pressed to find a better bicycle at it's price level. They are a good choice for commuting and recreational cycling. Selling prices can vary quite a bit, depending on your local conditions, but a Miyata 90 should bring a slighter higher price than comparably spec'd bicycles in similar condition.

If you are interested, I can probably date the year based on serial number, color, description on the tubing label and brand and models of the major components. If you have pics that you can post, that would be even better.

JPradun

Thank you both for the reply. It really is in mint condition with no wear on it. What should I look for when selecting a drop bar? Is there a certain size it needs to be or anything? I've never looked for handlebars before.

Thanks,
James

greybeard87

These are nice bars for the money and look good on a vintage bike:

https://www.rivbike.com/html/parts_noodlebar.html

Also provided is a common sense look on how to size them. You can find one's a little cheaper from any of the internet cycling houses but it's hard to find new bars that aren't black. Figure out the width that suits you and make sure that they are standard not oversize and they should work.
Again, see that your brake levers are compatable with drop bars, pick out a tape color that you like and have fun.........

One little warning though, once you start looking at the Rivendell site and working on your old bike, it's like crack. easy to become hooked.

cuda2k

Clamp size for your stem is probably 25.4, check ebay for drop bars with this size. Handlebar width is typically determined by measuring the width of your shoulders from the center of the socket (aka that boney spot) to the other. Or go down to the lbs and find some different sized ones and give them a try. I'm fairly narrow shouldered so I typically ride a 40cm bar, though considered trying a 42 out down the road.

Take a few shots of your brake levers that you've got now, picture is worth a thousand words to determine if they'll work with drop bars. Old style brake levers are also quite cheap to pick up on ebay in a range of prices and conditions. I passed on buying a Miyata 90 from a local guy who wanted too much for it ($120 I believe) for its condition, but as T-mar and others have stated its a very sound bike for its original price point.