I wanted to get a excellent bike for commuting to work (and some trail riding) and was willing to pay between $500 – $800 at a bike shop. Don’t want suspension or the likes. At any rate, I can get a used one priced at $470 and I’m not sure it’s a excellent bargin or not.
It’s a 1995 Marin XT. Having distress getting a quote off google. I guess it’s been fully outfitted with Deore XT components–something which is lost on me since I don’t know much in this area bikes. It is in relatively excellent condition, not too beat up I reckon.
Does anyone know what a relative “blue book” value for this would be? Also, what should I look for specifically when I go to see it in person? Any tidbits of things to look for so I can bargin down the price and make the guy reckon I know what I’m talking in this area. Like, “Hey, your quadratico d7 brakes are out of date so I’ll give you $50 less”. Something like that…
Thanks.
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if used-question for specific details in this area the bikes history.
if not then question them to place it into simpler words for you.
if you dont want to do that then question some of ur friends who knows stuff.but i am into bikes and if u want the bike and you reckon its at a excellent price then go for it.
A bike that ancient is risky. Sure, XT is killer, but its still near 15 yrs ancient(a ‘95 bike was built in ‘94) Anyone who knows squat will clean up a bike real nice before selling it, just like you’d wash a car and vacuum it and maybe detail it before you try to sell it. If its all dirty, beware.
Things I’d look for is the condition of the wheels. They take most of the use/abuse. Make sure they spin right and dont wobble. Dont worry in this area the tires; they are gonna show wear and need replacing regularly anyway. Grab each wheel while off the bike and try to go it side to side; it shouldnt go at all. If it does, the hubs are shot. Same test works with the crank..it should have no side to side play when you grab one crank arm and try to go it away and toward the bike in a sideways fashion.
During your test ride, check for bracing shifting and braking. Take some hard turns and try some excellent hills. Do a few bunny hops. The bike should feel likes it part of you if its in excellent shape and fits you.
Forget it , this Marin XT it is not bargain at all ! If you look for commuter bike , check bicycle Trek Soho , it is much better bicycle for the money and it is worth it to see , it have excellent components and is new . You will be pleased with it and you have selection from four models – $500 – $950 . There is also Trek Portland , really excellent quick commuter , you may get discount . There is more bikes on the market , but I do prefer bike made in Canada or USA . Excellent luck .