for a 1999 Bianchi Boardwalk, knowing that you'd have to replace a rusty chain, at least? Thumbshifting, 18 speed. I know that's not much information, but I don't have much information yet. Just curious to see some opinions.

Not much to go on, but for a six year old hybrid I'll guess 100 to 150 dollars. Check ebay and craigslist for similar bikes - hybrids with the same parts on them from about the same year. And keep in mind that a brand new hybrid starts around 300 or 350 dollars.

I'd say as little as possible, but it depends on how much you want the bike. Rusty chain and what else to replace? Lots of work to check wheel bearings and retrue the wheels, then theres the tyres to replace- 6 year old rubber is not going to be good- then theres all the cables and brake blocks, and as for it being only 18 speed ------. Now the hidden parts -- 6 speed rear could be a free wheel which means is it possible to change gearing on the cassette, and are the front sprockets worn.

I'd say if he gives you $50 then you can take it away for him.

Secondhand bikes can be a cheap way to get into biking- but They can cost more than a new bike to get up to standard. Really look at the bike and decide what it is worth to you. Then offer half of it and start haggling.

I started on an old secondhand bike years ago. I paid £50 for it ($80?) and the fun I had out of it was worth that much. After a year I sold it for exactly what I paid for it.

Last year I was given a 1960's Vintage Bianchi. So far it has cost me a complete strip down to be able to rebuild up. Am trying to stay with the original parts as fitted to the bike, except cables etc, but it is difficult. The wheels had to have new spokes so they required a complete rebuild- still have an oval rim on the front as it is too far out of true. Pedals will be rebuilt when I can get the bearings, but my joy at being given a bit of history is taking longer than I thought and is working out expensive.

A six year old bike with a rusty chain? $50.00 absolute tops and that's if I'm absolutely delighted with the way that it fits. If I have any doubts what-so-ever about the fit, I'm walking the other way.

very funny! And true!