Estate Sale Tips: Bicycles

Five great bicycle brands to look for while estate sale shopping!

Every day there are bargains to be found on nice bicycles at estate sales. The key is knowing what to look for. We have put together a short list of five great bicycle brands to look for while estate sale shopping.

1. Trek

Trek is an American bicycle manufacturer that has built bicycles since the mid-70s. If you are looking for a great deal, check out some 80s and 90s Trek mountain bikes and road bikes. Here are a few models you might come across: 830, 736, 700, 560, 736, 410, 950, and 400. For more detailed information on vintage trek bikes check out this great resource: http://www.vintage-trek.com

2. Schwinn

Schwinn bicycle brand has been a staple of American history for many years. Something to keep in mind is that Schwinn’s quality started to drop into the late 90s, early 2000s, but there are a ton of great Schwinn’s that can be had from the 70s, 80s and early 90s. Here are a few models to keep an eye out for: Varsity, Continental, Collegiate, High Plains, High Sierra, World Tourist, and the Paramount.

3. Peugeot

Peugeot, with French racing heritage, made some great bicycles during the 70s and 80s. Here are a few models to keep an eye out for: PX-10, PSV 10 S, P6, Ventoux, PH 8, PR 10. For more detailed information and a list of models check out these links: http://www.cyclespeugeot.com or www.peugeotshow.com

4. Fuji

Fuji was started in Japan in 1899, and was a rival to the Schwinn bicycle company. There are many great Fuji modeled bicycles from the 70s-80s available. Usually you can get great deals on these bikes on the second hand market. Here are a few models to look for: Tiara, Absolute, Sagres, Royale, Gran Tourer, and Suncrest. For more detailed information and models check out this link: http://www.classicfuji.com

5. Raleigh

Raleigh is a British bicycle company. There are many beautiful 60s, 70s, and 80s Raleigh’s out there. The values on these bikes are increasing, so get them fast! Here are a few models to keep your eyes out for: Professional, Sprite, International, Condor, Grand Prix, and Competition.

If you are new to cycling we recommend that you take your new ride to a local bike shop for a tune up. Tune ups will alert you to any unforeseen issues. Your local bike shop will be able to help you get your bicycle ready for riding.

A final note: There are many great bicycle brands you will discover while out estate sale shopping. We wanted to highlight five brands that are common. Here is a short list of other bicycle brands to keep in mind while out on the hunt. We recommend that you research the models and values of these bikes before making a purchase: Basso, Colnago, Cervélo, Focus, Cannondale, Giant, Specialized, Bianchi, Litespeed, Kona, Miyata, GT, Panasonic, Motobecane, Nishiki ,Felt, Jamis, and Scott to name a few.

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