lastpubrunner
Guest
Why is there such a difference in the values of old 531 bikes ? Is it because of the components ?
I can understand why the likes of Hetchins etc are so sought after (appearance mainly, I guess).
About a year ago, I purchased an old (but perfectly useable) Rory O'Brien for a massive £40; but an elderly friend told me that O'Briens cost more than many other (531 framed) bikes at the time. Why ?
Frankly, I think that old bikes with 531 frames can be a very good buy; I have a very lightweight FW Evans bike which weighs about 21 Ibs (cost £100), a friend has a Felt F75 (17.5 Ilbs and about £1,000), another friend has a Van Nicholas £1,600, yet another has a Trek Madone (15 Ilbs and about £2,500).
Bearing in mind that we all cycle only occasionally (we certainly don't compete), I feel that I am certainly getting the best value for money. Some people may say that steel bikes are old-fashioned, but it is hard to argue against the economics. Yes, my bike does weigh a bit more, but does it matter when in fact I could do with losing a few pounds myself.
Is it a case of the Emperor's new clothes ?
I can understand why the likes of Hetchins etc are so sought after (appearance mainly, I guess).
About a year ago, I purchased an old (but perfectly useable) Rory O'Brien for a massive £40; but an elderly friend told me that O'Briens cost more than many other (531 framed) bikes at the time. Why ?
Frankly, I think that old bikes with 531 frames can be a very good buy; I have a very lightweight FW Evans bike which weighs about 21 Ibs (cost £100), a friend has a Felt F75 (17.5 Ilbs and about £1,000), another friend has a Van Nicholas £1,600, yet another has a Trek Madone (15 Ilbs and about £2,500).
Bearing in mind that we all cycle only occasionally (we certainly don't compete), I feel that I am certainly getting the best value for money. Some people may say that steel bikes are old-fashioned, but it is hard to argue against the economics. Yes, my bike does weigh a bit more, but does it matter when in fact I could do with losing a few pounds myself.
Is it a case of the Emperor's new clothes ?