Classic Bike Market
 

Hi guys, i haven't been on the forums in a while. My interests have been moving over to the motorized two wheeled variety. I was thinking about selling my '88 Wheaties/Schwinn Team Paramount and my wife's 85 Paramount. I was just wondering how the the classic/vintage market has been. A quick look on Ebay seems to make me think the market is a little soft right now. Since I've been out of the loop for a while I thought I ask you guys how the market has been going.

Thanks
Mutt

I believe the answer to that question will depend not only on your location, but on the season as well. Generally I've also noted a softer market here in the Twin Cities than it has been even a couple years ago, but the quality vintage steel pieces in good shape still get decent money. As an example, I've seen a number of nice original 70's Sports Tourers sell here last spring on CL within a week for $4-500. There's a nice one now that's been listed for a month at that price, albeit with some driveline mods.

Soft. Certain things will always bring good prices but the "vintage bike mania" has faded. Adjust your expectations accordingly.

Well it all depends. First of all, demand is seasonal. Second, certain vintage bikes, like Trek touring setups from the 1980s, do well. In fact, Bikemig or is Thinktubes swears someone on this site is trying to corner the market. :)

IMHO, Paramounts have to go to ebay if you wish to maximize value and sell with a buy it now or best offer format. Then you can reject all lowballers. Who wouldn't want a bike sponsored by the Breakfast of Champions?

Size and condition matters much. So does presentation and your ability to inspire confidence that the bike will arrive in good shape.
"to be packed professionally by a bike shop" just does not cut it in the confidence raising game.

While generally speaking the market is very soft right now, unusual Paramounts seem to be moving right along. Big numbers for chrome examples but a Wheaties might create a lot of interest.

I'll second the notion that it depends on where you are. Here in Jacksonville, they very rarely pop up, but when they do they are reasonably priced. I've bought bikes for 100-200 here and listed them on CL in Gainesville for twice that with the buyer paying for gas or driving up here. So I can see the market dynamics first hand.

Ebay, and then it depends on your ability to prepare and present the bike, and your willingness to pack and ship at a reasonable price. Size matters quite a bit too.

Sold locally, high end bikes like Paramounts tend to bring half or less of ebay prices.

There was an English frame (sorry the name escapes me at the moment) that was posted on the Boston Craig's list for well over a year. Initially it was posted for trade, then a reasonable price (first $350 and eventually $300). Just no interest - not particularly good info or description. It was posted here a couple of times and someone finally posted (and not the first time either) it on the CR list and it was gone.

Sometimes you just have to find the right audience.

I agree, the the local market in Boston is pretty soft for better bikes.