Hi guys. Pretty new to the bike restoration scene. I saw this diamond in the rough at a garage sale fo 10 bucks. Ive heard there was some money to be made restoring and selling these older bikes. I know shes a Sears-Roebuck and most likely a 1960s. Can anyone tell me any information? Any clues for things to look for? Its got a slightly damaged front and rear fenders (but I took and auto body class so I can handle that) and needs a chain and tires and seat. the rest I should be able to fix (tweaked handlebars with a crack at the bend).
As far as I could tell the handle bars seem original. From what Ive been told this bike is a beach cruiser and beach cruisers are desirable today. She was Made in Austria as well. From what research Ive been able to do these 60s Sears can go for 150 to 1000 (Rough to perfect) but average in the 3-400 dollar range. Im also thinking of trying to find the motorized set up for it if they made one.
Breeze cruiser not beach my apologies. Could I take the seat to a Hot Rod Upholstery shop to have it redone? (the seat frame is fine and the springs are in good shape) or should I just get a new seat? If so where could I get one? in fact where is a good place for any classic bike parts? If I were to put some options on it that it may have had would it up the value? Since i only spent $10 for the bike i do have some cushion spending room. In your opinion what should I do to it for cheap to up value? I believe it had the license plate because part of a bracket is still on the rear fender.
could the bracket be for a reflector instead of a plate? I have a schwinn breeze 5 speed 1975 and it has a big reflector on the back of the fender
There are two kinds of people in the world, "Those who help themselves to people, and those who help people!"
Could be. its a small plate with a bolt through the middle of it. maybe 1.5 inches by .75 inches.
Honestly have to admit this bike could look amazing.
Hey there! New to this forum!
I run a small bike business, and can assure you that nfmisso is incorrect in this instance. Maybe in California (and/or to bike elitists) the things he said are true, but where I am there is a HIGH demand for this style bicycle on a regular basis. I unfortunately can not help you in determination of what style/model/any more information on the bike you have based solely on that picture, I just wanted to assure you that if you were to fix this bike up you could sell it, and with a $10 investment on the frame, even including the $80-$100 you may have to spend to get it back to sellable condition, you will STILL make profit, especially if you can find the right client.
Vintage girl's cruisers are extremely popular nowadays, and should sell quickly and easily. Be sure to take some coarse steel wool to the rustier parts! Go ahead and get a new suspension saddle, and that will boost the final cost, as well as providing you with a great selling point! If you wanted, offer them the original saddle if they would prefer. Check craigslist in your area for a wheelset, and small shops for budget tires. A local bike shop will have good chains for a decent price, and if they don't you can always get one at a retail, larger shop.
Good luck on your sale!
ohps: the reason I found this particular thread, was that I recently acquired an old Sears Roebuck bike in pretty dirty/bad condition, restored it, and sold it for over $250. I joined the forum primarily to tell YOU, Don't be discouraged my friend! Do what you love and have fun while doing it!
August-
you should look at what similar bike are actually selling for on eBay and CL - not the asking price.
there are lots of people trying to sell, and not closing the deal.
Nigel
If you cannot get free shipping on ebay I think it really eats in to the bottom line or really want it bad. But good luck on the project and let us know how ya did
There are two kinds of people in the world, "Those who help themselves to people, and those who help people!"
well for one thing Augustderelict I did not naysay anything. Madhttr will have fun restoring the bicycle and learn a lot along the way. This forum is purely to gain different perspectives from people whom enjoy like things and not bash people for doing so. I can assure you that Mfmisso has the respect of the biketutor community as much as I do respect his opinion. Don't have to totally agree all the time but it does not matter! I consider him family and it probably sucks to be you or anywhere close
There are two kinds of people in the world, "Those who help themselves to people, and those who help people!"
=D
Thumbs up big guy! You sure told me!! And that's a VERY clever twist to my name! ^_~
ohps I wasn't actually referring to you, but naysayers in general. You must subconsciously consider yourself a naysayer if you took my statement so personally. See, we learn new stuff everyday!
It's highly hilarious/ironic that in the same breath you say this forum isn't about "bashing" people, you say I suck, but don't know anything about me. lol. Thanks- Gave me a good laugh.
Thanks for all the info guys! unfortunatly where I live (near Sacramento) CL doesnt have anything close to use as a starting point price wise, neither does Ebay. Would I get top dollar if I sold it to a respectable bike shop?
By the Way I found the Serial numbers: 503.451320 3058402
Il take it to a few car shows with a for sale sign on it, put it on craigslist and ebay.
Yep good point, I thought for sure that AugustDerleth would make me an offer on my Schwinn Breeze 5spd. But nope it just hangs there lonely and wants a good home. I may just take it to the poor side of town and give it to a little girl who doesn't have a bicycle so maybe just maybe there will be a special place in hell for me someday
There are two kinds of people in the world, "Those who help themselves to people, and those who help people!"