Found this forum by googling a bike I am considering buying. Brittany Free Spirit 12 spd. 21" frame. Just a quick glance bike is in VGC cosmetically. Am going back Sat to go over it thoroughly. I know most of what to look for. Wheels true, bearings, loose/damaged components etc. Question: is it worth the $75.00 minimum asking price? As I said, lookswise it is really nice. No rust. Paint is 99.9% there. Chhrome is very clean. Has carrying rack on rear. When was last year of production? It has the old style coaster bike handlebars which is why I looked at it in the first place. I'm too old for the racing style handlebars. Thanks in advance for any insight and help you have for me.
Joe
Joe
If there's no major issues, I'd definitely say well worth $50-$100. These are usually fairly low end bikes, but good solid transport if they're working well.
Check the tires for cracks and plan on replacing the brake pads unless they're quite new. Spin the wheels and listen at the hub for crackling sounds (signs of bad bearings). Take a fridge magnet with you to test if the rim are steel or aluminum. Aluminum rims are a big +, but not necessary by any means.
There are two kinds of people in the world, "Those who help themselves to people, and those who help people!"
"Heavy" is no indicator of the material used. Department store bikes made of aluminium have (much) heavier frames than good steel ones.
Replace tyres & tubes, brake pads, cables, housing, clean and grease all bearings (hubs, headset, bottom bracket).