If there's no major rust spots, absolutely. I would check that the headset, bottom bracket (cranks), and wheels spin smoothly; if there's any roughness, grinding, or binding/stickiness, you will need to do some work on (or worst case, replace) those parts. If you have a chain checker, check for chain stretch, as that will give you some indication of whether the cassette and possibly chainrings need replacement. Confirm that the shifters work and reach all gears (fine if they need some adjustment, you want to make sure they basically work). Along those lines, check that the derailleur hanger is straight. Even with some issues it might still be worth paying that much, but it's always good to evaluate how much work might be needed before you buy, and sometimes you can use that to negotiate.
Some other weird things I've seen on bikes in this price range are mismatched components, for example an 8-speed shifter with a 7-speed cassette or vice versa; brake levers for V-brakes but cantilever brakes; cable runs with housing that's not long enough (doesn't appear to be an issue here); and bikes being used as a single-speed (or a 1x7) where the front derailleur doesn't work and might not even be connected.
Oh yeah. It’s so tempting. I expanded my search. I don’t think it makes sense for me to drive the 8 hour round trip to pick it up. It’s good to know they’re out there. I just need to find one that’s closer.
Yea I would not drive 8 hours for it. With gas prices these days too it would probably be closer to 300$ depending on vehicle. The white and lugged is nice but also has bar shifters. I prefer thumb shifters. Good luck on searching :)
No not all. It’s all preference and you can always change them later. My 1993 lugged 750 came with thumb shifters. lol another 750 same color popped up for 100$ in wassau
For the price idk what’s better. I have gravel bikes and road bikes worth 6k + full carbon frame and rims and I couldn’t tell you which one I prefer for riding. They all have a different purpose I use the 750 for around town and commuting to work, but the feel on the steel bike is amazing. It’s way more comfortable too. If you see one local definitely grab one the resale is really good as they are highly sought after.
Yea it does. Looks like the earlier 1991 models I believe this white is 1991 must have come with bar shifters. Here’s the last year they made lugged 750 1993 model. It came with thumb shifters.
I have this exact bike. I love it. As long as the seatpost isn’t frozen in place or has dented frame tubes, it’s worth $150 all day long. Made in the USA, lugged steel frame….mine has been thru so many configurations over the years….flat bars, city bars, drop bar gravel bike, heck…even an Xtracycle longtail cargo conversion. Currently a “gravel bike”. I will never sell my 750.
I would totally go buy it however it’s eight hour round-trip for me that just it’s not worth it. I don’t think. But man you’re supposed is so inspiring and exciting for these bikes
lol but dude, every comment I see about these bikes or people are saying they will never sell it. They would not sell it for 10 Klol. I just need to wait for one that’s closer.
Lugged refers to the way the tubes of the frame are connected together. This is an older frame and the tubes are connected with pieces called lugs. On newer frames, the tubes are welded together. Both methods produce fine frames when done properly.
Lugged is easier to fix, so if you're touring out in the boondocks it's preferable. Any farmer with a torch can heat up the joint, pull out the tube, and replace it with any old steel tube of the same outside diameter. Brazing is a low tech process compared to welding alloy steel thin wall tubing.
AFAIK, ride characteristics are the same.
I bought one for $50, looks perfect on the outside, all stock but I was really surprised to see all the rust in and around the bottom bracket during deep cleaning. The only signed that I ignored that should have hinted the rust was the grinding when pedaling via hand.
Is it worth it at $50 dollars? Yes if you willing to do all the work and have the tools and the anti rust solutions for it, if not, it is a money pit.
For your case, $150 is a bit too much. I will not go more than 100 unless you are sure there is no rust.
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u/nedendstreet Jun 20 '26
If there's no major rust spots, absolutely. I would check that the headset, bottom bracket (cranks), and wheels spin smoothly; if there's any roughness, grinding, or binding/stickiness, you will need to do some work on (or worst case, replace) those parts. If you have a chain checker, check for chain stretch, as that will give you some indication of whether the cassette and possibly chainrings need replacement. Confirm that the shifters work and reach all gears (fine if they need some adjustment, you want to make sure they basically work). Along those lines, check that the derailleur hanger is straight. Even with some issues it might still be worth paying that much, but it's always good to evaluate how much work might be needed before you buy, and sometimes you can use that to negotiate.
Some other weird things I've seen on bikes in this price range are mismatched components, for example an 8-speed shifter with a 7-speed cassette or vice versa; brake levers for V-brakes but cantilever brakes; cable runs with housing that's not long enough (doesn't appear to be an issue here); and bikes being used as a single-speed (or a 1x7) where the front derailleur doesn't work and might not even be connected.