I posted this over in General Discussion forum, but didn't get much response, so I'll post it here:

I have an opportunity to purchase a used road bike made by Moulden Bicycle Works (https://moulden.hardcore.ca/), a small custom co. in Edmonton, Alberta. All of Moulden's bikes are custom made.

I'm guessing that the bike is about 10-15 years old. It's Reynolds 531 steel, with Campy shifters/brakes/crank/cogset, and Suntour Cyclone II derailleurs.

I'm assuming that the derailleurs are good quality (since the rest is campy stuff), but I really know nothing about this type of thing..

Moulden's webpage shows that current frame prices start at $900 Canadian, not including paint, wheels, and components... so I'm guessing that this was not a cheap bike, as it was probably in the $1500-$2000 range when new (Canadian dollars).

I guess my main question is: How much is a bike such as this worth now? Do these sorts of bikes retain their value for quite a while? I think I'm being offered a good deal, but want to hear some opinions before I decide.

It appears to be in excellent condition, and it fits me well. Any comments?

I'll attach some pics...

Thanks in advance for any comments on this!

The bike..

Crank and 'rings...

rear drivetrain...

the derailleurs are Suntour Cyclone,
Good quality stuff, not top of the line (that would be
superbe) but close.
How much is it worth? The best bet would be to search
sites like e-bay, etc. to see how much similiar bikes
have sold for recently.
Some bikes retain value quite well, and some turn out
to be wonderful investments (sold for $275 in 1960 new, now
selling for $2k).
I'd say, and this is purely thumbsuck, not more than
$500CDN
If the bike fits, and is comfortable, and you don't mind
the friction shifting its really worth whatever you're willing
to pay for it.

Marty

Given the brake cables and the friction shifting I'd say the bike is at least 15 years old unless the first owner built a retro bike like Rivendell does.

531 frames ride great and hold value. Looks like an earlier Athena or Chorus crank. Like Marty said the ST stuff is solid. It'll work good for a long time. I was a fan of SunTour back in the friction days.

I can't add more to what Marty said about price. Looks like a very nice vintage or retro styled bike. It has a quality frame a good drivetrain and should last forever. What does the seller want for it?

Seller is asking 200 Canadian dollars, but may be changing his mind about it.. I think he may not want to sell it in the end... but I still have to think about it! Keep the comments coming please - it may help me decide!

I've since found out that Jim Moulden's main mode of
framebuilding is Fillet Brazing, and is a considerably more
time consuming/expensive technique than say TIG welding.
I'd say for the price go for it.
My first "real" bike had suntour cyclone, and it was bullet
proof. I actually think it shifted better than the campy nuovo
record derailleurs.

Marty

A clean 531 frame is worth the $200. Alot of people would spend more than $200US for it.

Buy the bike.

Well folks, I've decided to buy the bike! Should be getting it sometime in the next week or so. Thanks for all of your comments and advice!

Darren

I would also recommend rust-checking the frame (as you would your car) to prevent further corrosion. I've done this to my fleet of steel bikes, and have had zero problems!

How/where would I go about getting that done? What would I look at it costing?

Thanks!

go to a good shop, buy a can of J. P. Weigles Framesaver.
go home, disassemble the bike and follow the directions
for the framesaver.
Great stuff, I have it in all my steel bikes and never have
had a problem.
Your LBS should be able to help with the inspection.
Let us know how you like it.


Marty

Jim's bike frames ride and handled very well and has built a few frames for national racers . Hard and rare to find one for sale . Great score as his frames were top notch tubing and lugs . I love his mountain bike frames and it's a shame he doesn't buildem anymore I heard . They retain their value well and if selling it is your intention use kijiji in Edmonton and it should sell within 24hrs.

You win for today! You've responded to a thread no one has said a word in for nearly 17 years!

Does this qualify as a classic and vintage thread?

yes it sure does . I'm pretty sure he quit building frames around the introduction of disc brakes . He did do a few and adapted a few but Jim was more of a traditionalist like Richey, Brodie and Rock Lobster. Steel frames & brake posts .

He was speaking to the thread itself being "classic & vintage." Again, you responded to a conversation that took place 17 years ago.