Specs/Purchase Advice for '86 Cannondale ST500
 

Hi all, I have found a 1986 ST500 for sale locally that I am considering purchasing. I can't much info on this bike around, however, other than the other posts here, mostly. If you could provide some newbie advice I would appreciate it.

Can anyone tell me how much these bikes weigh (frame + all the rest)? Secondly, the big question: is it worth ~$275 US with some extras (racks, fenders, rear panniers)? I think the bike has about 10 years of light use on it. Is the frame likely close to failure? Seems there is a lot of argument on that issue, and I'm having a hard time applying either side to this specific frame, which I know nothing about!

It also appears the bike has some changes from the original, it's 18-speed w/ Shimano 500 components, barcon shifters, and 40-spoke 27" x 1.25" wheels w/ Phil Wood hubs. Not sure exactly what is original and what is a replacement/upgrade, but perhaps it is important to know.

I haven't owned a touring bike in the past and I want one, but I can't really afford much more than $500 or so, so this seems like a good choice if it's not going to break in a year! I'm grateful for any suggestions or pointers to other pages.

First off, HAGGLE! I recently bought an ST 400 at a garage sale for $20. It was box-stock, right down to the tires! How would I know this? I still have an '86 catalogue from when I bought an SM 700. And I still have both! Someone else will own it when they pry it from my cold, dead fingers!!
If you'd like, I can dig out the catalogue and give you the stock specs for '86. PM me.