sibley

I found this bike on Craiglist https://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1484005565.html for $130

I called the guy and he told me it was a Trek 400. I need it for someone who's 5'11" - he wasn't sure how big it was, thought it would work, but it's something I'd need to see in person I think. It's to replace a stolen 1420.

There is one issue with the bike - the back tire is flat (he couldn't get it to blow up with the tools he has - he said he tried). This is a gift and I think the receiver would be interested in getting new tires anyway, but could it be some other, more critical issue? Or do you think he actually just didn't have that weird little adaptor the tires might use?

Decent price despite the tire, right? Should I go for it?

beech333

Did he say if it just needed a new tube?

sibley

No - he only said he couldn't get it to pump with what he had. I'm just kind of assuming it at least needs a new tube. Maybe it'll need a new rim if it's puncturing the tube? He mentioned something about a blister (but as a unit, not a flaw?)

I wasn't able to get specifics - I called on my way to lunch but wasn't expecting anyone to answer.

sibley

I'm not bike savvy - I just want to get my bf a replacement for his stolen bike. I haven't got any spare tire but maybe the seller will have something?

If not, what sort of things can I do to see if the bike will work well without switching the tire to test?

mkeller234

My guess about the tire, he does not have a pump head that fits a presta valve. Going on the small amount of info it sounds like it could be a fair enough deal, just be aware that it will probably need a thorough tune up.

As far as the height, don't take his word for it. Take a measuring tape with you and check it yourself. My guess would be a 58cm or a 56cm frame... I think that is roughly 22.5 inches.

Here is how you measure, like the bottom picture:

sibley

Thanks =)

It looks like my best option will be to call him back, have him measure between the seat and the crank, and if the size seems ok I'll have my bf go with me to look at it... he can bring his bike pump (which I know had a weird tip for his old bike) and see if that will do it.

kbjack

If he can't inflate his own tires, he's probably not all that savvy either. My guess is that the flat is nothing to worry about--seller probably doesn't have a presta adapter and so hasn't bothered to inflate the tire. Either that or there's a puncture. Still, nothing to worry about.

The most important thing, aside from any structural damage, is size. At 5'11", your bf will probably be best on something hovering around 58cm for the seat tube and roughly the same (57-58cm) for the top tube, measured center-center on each tube. Without knowing more specific measurements for your bf, this is just ballpark--he can probably go smaller, probably wouldn't want to go too much bigger--but it's a start. So bring a tape measure.

After you determine that the bike is the right size, which hopefully it will be, you should inspect the frame for any damage--dents, dings, 'wrinkling' under the top or down tube--these are signs that the bike has been in some kind of collision or fall. If you see anything like that, pass immediately.

If you want to be extra careful, check to make sure the seat post and stem can be removed--you'll need allen wrenches for this.

If the other moving parts seem functional, great; if not, they can more than likely be brought back to life by a decent mechanic--but all of this should factor into the final price of the bike. The more that's wrong with it, the less you offer. The only deal breakers are damage and size.

If you're still unsure, bring a camera and take some pictures of the bike. Post 'em here and someone should be able to give you a fair answer as to fit, functionality, level of quality, etc. Keep in mind, though, the longer you wait on a decent craigslist bike, the less likely you are to find it available when you finally make your decision--so some of it is going to have to be gut instinct...not always the best judge, but whatever, live and learn, right?

mkeller234

+1 to what kbjack says.

I dug through the Trek catalogs and think I may have found the bike model you are going to look at. This is a 1983 Trek 400 with a tange Mangalloy frame. If it's in good shape and the right size it looks to be a fair deal.

abarth

Probably a 83 or 84. Here is the link to the 83 catalog. For 5'11" rider, look for frame size 56-59cm. I think in 84 Trek switched to Helicomatic freewheel. It can be troublesome. For $130 it should be good condition, no rust, no dents. Just because the tires are old doesn't mean they need to be replaced. Some of my bikes have tires over 20 years old, as long as they are in good condition.....Just remember a tune-up at a bike shop will run you about $100-$200 or you can d.i.y. for free.

BOBSONATOR

there are some amazing women out there

custermustache

I ride a Helicomatic and have had no trouble - I wouldn't let that be a stopper.

sibley

I called the small-town bike shop near my house. Basic tune-up is $50, $75 for next level.
If the bike is the right size I think I'm going to do it. Just need a ride now - my car died this morning (never has before. very sad.)

abarth

If the bike been stored for a long time, make sure the bike shop lubes and adjusts all bearings.

Procione

Presta adapter -- >
You better have some spare tubes, tire removal tools, and a pump in case you get a flat.
And it's better to go to public library and check out some bike repair books, and learn yourself, than pay someone else.

sibley

I called the guy and figured out the size... I thought it was a little too small, but we went and looked anyway. I had my bf bring his bike pump. It did turn out to be too little, but we were able to inflate the tires for the guy at least (they both needed air and had the Presta style).

Do you guys think this one is worth considering?
https://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1507699903.html
It's been on CL for a while so I think the owner would probably be willing to go down in price.

beech333

Pass. How did he measure that? It looks tiny for a supposed 25". I don't see any way that it would be as big as he said. Look for something in the 22-23" or 56-58 cm size. I know it sounds close in writing, but it is quite the difference when riding.

sibley

beech... you go look for me? find me a nice, inexpensive, correctly sized bike to give as a christmakkuh gift? =)

beech333

I tried. It looks like Rochester is as bad as Athens, Ga. I could never find anything when I lived down there. Don't feel bad though. Not much is showing up here in the Chicago area either.

r0ckh0und 

Found this one....... https://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1488247772.html ..........decent enough for some upgrades over time if the wheels are straight and alloy. Might be worth checking out, ask a few questions, ask for better pics.......if it's what you are looking for then offer a little less than you are willing to pay. This frame size looks to be a 58cm.

Vipon

Sibley, I bought that same KHS at a thrift store for 12.00$ in a lot better shape.

its way over priced and not that great of a bike. Super heavy,

sibley

Oh that Maruishi looks good! A little big I think? But would it still work for someone 5'11 ish? I'm actually headed over there in 2 weeks for a wedding...

I still don't want to spend more than that ^, but check out these anyway?
https://buffalo.craigslist.org/bik/1500425200.html
https://buffalo.craigslist.org/bik/1506710988.html

Here's the bike it's replacing (stolen last spring):

sibley

Ok he sent me pictures of the https://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1488247772.html.

He says it's 22" (55.5ish cms) from the pedal axle thingy to the seat bar. Does that seem wrong?

Here are the pics he sent me

Thanks guys =)

jet sanchEz

All of the bikes you have listed are bigger than your blue Trek, was the Trek a good fit?

If you want a 56 to 57cm bike you should just shell out $300 for this Cannondale, it is a great deal and it has STI shifters and is better than any bike you have posted (except that Panasonic, which is a pretty good bike but it is 20 years old). Lowering the seat and rotating the handlebars down a bit will get the C-dale to fit a person who is 5'11

https://rochester.craigslist.org/bik/1514177952.html

sibley

Oh gosh. Fine I'll email that guy too. Anyone want to put their 2 cents in on the Maruishi v. Cannondale, taking into account price difference?

abarth

Cannondale with STI is a good deal. Cannondale all the way.