Perusing Craigslist for Bicycles

From time to time I peruse Craigslist for bicycles. In April 2015 I saw an ad for a Raleigh Super Course and some parts. Seventy-five dollars.

The seller was nearby, in Shoreline, north of Seattle, so my son, Eric, and I visit. As I looked at the bicycle, I'm thinking to myself "you ought to give me $75.00 to take this stuff away."

I'm not very good with bikes but I like trying. I notice the rims are steel, not aluminum. Lots of rust. The hubs, however, are aluminum, and made in France. The crank is steel and has cotter pins. The brakes are center pull, Weinmann, from Belgium. On the front and back are Huret derailleurs. I've never heard of those. The bicycle has a beautiful Brooks saddle.

I'm thinking: This is not likely to be a gem. Though, it might be fun to try to fix up. It might make a good winter commuter bicycle. Most days, I ride about 24 miles to and from work along the Burke-Gilman trail, North to South and back. I know how lucky I am to say this - the worst, cold, rainy, windy day is about 10 times better than driving a car. On really bad days, the bus is a good option.

The frame size is about right. Perhaps a little big for Eric; a little small for me but not too bad. The bicycle feels pretty heavy but there is a massive chain and lock on it, a kickstand, and a back carrier. That must add up to five pounds.

I say, "will you take $50.00?" He says "sure." And, Eric and I drive home with a bicycle and a box of junk. My wife is impressed, certainly not with the bicycle, but with the story that I bargained a little.

Craigslist Picture - Raleigh Super Course and Parts