What does everyone think of this bike?
https://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/bik/1257755025.html
No pictures, which is a bummer, but I'm going to check it out in person this weekend. Price-wise, does this seem reasonable? I'm looking to buy a tour bike that isn't going to require a lot of additional investment. This comes with a rack and a couple panniers, which is a plus, but if I'm going to have to spend a few hundred bucks fixin' 'er up, I'd rather just buy a new LHT or Volpe or something. What are the odds this will do the job for me?

Seems high to me.

A Fuji Touring is a nice bike, but that's WAY too much. Unless I'm way off base here, a Series IV in good shape should go for around 200-300 bucks depending on your market. I'm all for vintage tourers myself, my main ride is a fab Miyata 600GT.

Head on over to the C&V forum to get an idea about older tourers. This thread's great:

https://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vintage/319254-show-us-your-vintage-touring-bikes.html

There's also a value inquiries subforum there, you might get an idea of what you should expect to pay. 80's and 90's touring bikes are pretty solid (70's too, but replacing parts is trickier). For less than $500, you can put together a mighty fine machine.

I too think it sounds high. Personally I would rather have a newer bike with STI and a 9 speed cassette.

Seems high to me unless it in like new condition.

I suspected it was too much, but was looking for a confirmation.

What do you think about this one: https://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/bik/1253513940.html

If I could bargain him down to 300 on the bike and then spend an extra 200 or so on some new components (depending on the condition of the thing), do you think I would have a decent tourer?

Price way to high, more like a $375 bike. I hope he gets his price, as I have one in my workshop right now ready for the next owner...

Much better. I doubt you'll need to change components much, unless they're worn out/broken (unlikely). Drop some dough on racks, fenders and panniers and you're set.

If I was selling that Volpe, I would not bargain down to $300. Touring bikes hold their value very well. Offer $375 or even $400, assuming bike is damage free and ready to ride. I sold a very similar bike to that one yesterday for $365, and I am not in as strong a market as Chicago.