For those of us who are bike enthusiasts, it’s easy to end up with a garage full of bicycles. N+1 isn’t just a cute expression—it’s a way of life. If you’ve got the space, chances are you’re filling it with bikes. Every bargain on Marketplace or at the local thrift store feels like a deal you just can’t pass up. But the big question is: are any of these bikes actually worth something?
The folks over at Gremlin’s Bicycle Emporium seem to think so. Based in London, Ontario, this eclectic bike shop specializes in both new and vintage bicycles. We chatted with Mason, their media specialist, to get his take on finding hidden gems in what may seem like a pile of worthless old bikes.
Is your old, crappy bike worth anything?
If you’re not sure what to look for, it can be tricky to gauge whether an old bike is valuable. According to Mason, the first thing you want to check is the bike’s rideability. “Making sure none of the parts are seized is one of the first steps in checking if the bike is worth scooping up,” he says. A seized bottom bracket or rusted components can dramatically lower its value, even if the bike is from a reputable brand.
What brands should you look for?
When it comes to vintage bikes, it’s less about the brand and more about the quality of the build. Mason notes there were numerous companies that sold decent mountain bikes back in the day. “Look for quality framesets, tubing and componentry,” he advises. While some collectible brands can fetch a high resale price, the appeal is highly subjective. One bike brand might resonate with you more than others, and that personal connection often influences which bikes become collectible. Names like Merlin, Moot and Rock Lobster are coveted names but unless you’re really lucky, you’ll pay a higher price for them.
What bike parts are worth the most?
Similar to today’s market, older bikes came with different tiers of parts. Groupsets like XT or XC Pro indicate higher-end models and parts from smaller, high-performance manufacturers can add serious value. “The high-end stuff was made in much smaller quantities than the low-end production parts,” Mason explains. Syncros, Raceface, Chris King are brands to look for. Bullseye hubs are coveted and Brooks saddles are also valuable.
Finding hidden gems
Gremlin’s Bicycle Emporium has seen its share of hidden gems. Mason recalls one recent…
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