Mostly casual biker, bike when I can't run… Looking for something faster than my heavyish cheapish gravel bike that will hold some value…
by Equal-Explanation491
Mostly casual biker, bike when I can't run… Looking for something faster than my heavyish cheapish gravel bike that will hold some value…
by Equal-Explanation491
2 Comments
The frame and Shimano components are older but nice if they are in good condition. Those Bontrager wheels are notorious for rims cracking at the spoke nipples. Expect to replace them if you buy. Price seems pretty good even with that in mind.
Edit: check to make sure the shifters still shift through all the gears. Stuff this old will get gummed up if it’s not flushed out occasionally
This bike is from the very early 90s. The components appear mostly original, the wheels have been replaced maybe in the early 2000s. Titanium frames are famous for being timeless, but that groupset and the wheels certainly are not.
If this bike has been ridden a lot it’s important to inspect the components closely. 35 years is quite old for lightweight aluminum parts like the handlebar, stem, and the carbon fork. I would be concerned about small difficult to spot cracks. There is an intended product lifespan and everything here is well beyond it.
Those wheels, while ‘newer’ at only 20-25 years old are troublesome to deal with using a paired spoke design that is aesthetically pleasing but not a very good idea.
This would be a cool bike to buy and restore. Could you buy it and ride it as is? Maybe but I wouldn’t feel confident leaning into a high speed corner, or banging over potholes in a paceline. You might be better served with something more modern and lower maintenance.