chico81 

Hi All,

I’m thinking about picking up an early/mid Eighties Specialized Allez (SE?) in very low miles original condition. First, I think this is an SE model because it has Suntour Superbe components. I’m a bit worried though because the brake hoods are just disgusting looking (I think they contracted a disease), are these difficult (i.e. expensive) to replace? The seller is asking $220 (has already dropped price by $75, so doubt there is much more wiggle room), is this a fair value for a bike in this condition? Should I jump?

Thanks!!

rgvg

Hoods from velo orange might work https://velo-orange.com/collections/...ake-hood-cover $23 USD

I don't know about the price but anyone here will probably tell you only jump if it fits you. No fun riding a bike that doesn't fit.

merziac

@chico81, if this were near me it would already be in hand, run don't walk or let me know if you are willing to facilitate plz.

chico81 

Thanks for the link! I will definitely take advantage of this

As for size, I like to ride about 60cm depending on geometry, and this bike looks to be at least a 58cm, so I’m kind of excited!

nomadmax 

I believe that's a 1985 Allez SE. The serial number will say for sure.

chico81 

Hi merziac,

So, I was scheduled to pick it up this afternoon, but when I tried to message the seller for his address I got a network error code (see pic). I googled the code and it appears that either the seller blocked me, or, more likely, the seller/listing was reported and removed. I’m guessing that the bike was stolen and reported to the OfferUp administers. It now makes sense why he was so eager to sell quick and so open to lowering the price...

Here is the link, let me know if you have any luck!

https://offerup.co/GP9pT2X5WX

-Ian

merziac

Tx for the headsup, not taking any chances with long distance in the mix. This is where a facilitator is crucial, even then you is not me.

madpogue 

^^^^^ The ad is still up. @chico81, did you try contacting the seller from some other device, like a computer?

chico81 

Thanks madpogue,

I just tried with my wife’s phone. The link goes to the ad, but I still can’t message the seller, and when I try the link to the seller’s profile, it says he has no offers (nothing for sale). I’m guessing that the bike was flagged/reported and removed for some reason. Beautiful bike, but I think I dodged a bullet on this one...

madpogue 

If it were removed, the ad wouldn't still be up. Have you contacted OfferUp support?

chico81 

I haven’t contacted support, but I’ve tried other devices and apps, still can’t message the seller. Something is up. Can you try to message the seller? Let me know if you get an error too. Thanks! -Ian

madpogue 

I tried the "Ask" button, a dialogue window opened, but the "Send" button returned an error, with no error code. This looks a lot more like an issue with OfferUp's site than this particular item. But there's no way of knowing without reporting the issue to OfferUp support.

Seller does have only one sale in his history.

chico81 

Thanks for taking a look for me. I think the bike has been flagged. I can’t find it unless I use the link I provided. I appreciate your effort!

chico81 

So, the Allez didn’t work out.

however, I was able to pick up an 80’s Serotta today for not much more $$$

I will be making a new post for it, but here is a pic:

ryansu

That is a lovely blue, sweet find OP

chico81 

The bike has been reposted. Here is a link. I think I’m going to pass on this one now, I’m in the process of purchasing a 70’s Raleigh Professional MK IV

https://offerup.co/sSNjVKq3IY

Classtime 

That Serotta is a beaut but if I didn't spend my birthday money on new shoes, I'd driving down to grab that Allez.