I’m just getting into older bikes, but know pretty much nothing. There’s 1986 Schwinn LeTour posted on my local craigslist, says it’s all original except for the tires, and in great shape. They’re asking $360. Does that seem worth to y’all? I honestly have no clue myself
Posted Jun 22, 2020, 6:43 AM UTC
Unless I was collecting a Schwinn Le Tour for some museum I wouldn't pay that much money for one.
No matter what condition I wouldn’t pay that much.
If I were in the market for that kind of bike, maybe $150. "All original except for tires" is not a plus unless it's a collectible bike. You'll need to replace all the cables and housing, pads, chain, cassette, bar tape, overhaul the hubs, bottom bracket, and headset (doubt that maintenance has been on these areas if cables, etc. are truly original).
Even if it were in excellent mechanical shape, personally it's not something that I'd choose for an "xbike". 27" rims that don't have good options for new tires. You could switch to 700c wheels, but that additional cost could be better spent on a different bike. The frame isn't going to clear any tires with any width to them.
It depends a lot on where you live. A major city is going to be more expensive than a small town. Also, prices generally are crazy high right now because of the season and because of the pandemic.
Even still, that price seems high. The Le Tour was a decent enough bike by the late 80s but I wouldn’t want to pay that much for one. In my area (Boston region) I’d be expecting to pay more like $200 or so if it was in good shape.
Also, keep in mind that “all original except for the tires” on a bike this old may not be a good thing. Brake and shifter cables that are 30+ years old may need replacing, and items like the headset, bottom bracket, and derailleurs may have more wear than you realize. Just something to think about!
Not knowing your market it’s hard to say, but I see very nice late ‘80s steel road bikes sit for sale at 200-250 for days or weeks. The ones priced at 125ish go fast, but much higher and sales dwindle. This is also a region in which nearly every recreational road cyclist is riding a carbon S-Works, so I’m guessing the steel road bike market is more dominated by college students. Also plan on adding at least $50 on for new tires, plus maybe new bar tape, cables, etc. Value also depends on good fit, what you personally can afford, and if you love it. If you love it this may be worth it, if you aren’t sold on this bike I would pass at that price.