SDHawk

I was excited to pick this up earlier this week here in San Diego. From what I saw online, it's a 1983 Grizzly, which is the first year they were made. Maybe Bianchigirll can confirm that?

Here are some pics after a wash. Minor rust should clean up easily. Appears to be almost all original with the exception of seat, post, tires, grips, and cables. I like the white accents that were added. Not sure about the slick tires tho. I didn't know where to post this... not looking to sell it.... at least not until I have some fun riding it first

VtwinVince

Very nice, the only way to upgrade that one would be if it was Celeste. I have a later version with roller cams.

zukahn1 

I think it is actually 1984/5 model good chance the frame and some of the parts were made in 1983. The type Nitto bars on this bike didn't came out some point in 84 and were only produced about year. Great find I really like the paint.

SDHawk

Ha, yah I was thinking the same thing re color

The online info seems to indicate it is 1983. 15 speed seems to lend credence to that date.

https://thecabe.com/forum/threads/19...ly-mtb.118047/

https://offerup.com/item/detail/421c...1-e3c6b131ffa6

Bianchigirll 

Great looking Bianchi! I really don't want a 26" wheeler around the house but if I came across an old long wheelbase like that it would be hard to turn down.

Yes '83 is the first I see in the catalogs, whether there was an earlier model thbat wasn't in them I wouldn't know.



I think this will take you to the '83 catalog on facistbook page. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?...6496450&type=3

SDHawk

Thanks for the info! BTW, I miscounted.... the bike does have 18 speeds as the catalog says

SDHawk

So I tuned it up, serviced the hubs, BB, and RD. Also removed the minimal rust as best I could.

Trying to decide whether to keep or sell. It rides great now, but honestly my stable is full and I don't think it would get much action. What do you think it's worth? It's all original I believe except tires, seat & seatpost, and grips.

BTW, the Mountech RD was a b****h!. The inner jockey wheel was all gunked up and barely turned. Apparently they were known for that. And it's not a normal jockey wheel either... internal spring and all kinds of bits... it's a minor miracle I got it back together. It's great now tho

Here are a few more pics... they are similar to my earlier pics but it is a lot better mechanically now.

zukahn1 

Looks great in the current soft market I would be inclined to keep it.

Maxey

I second what Zukahn said -- the market is soft, not to mention everyone should have a classic early mountain bike in their stable. And a Bianchi MTB has its own special cache to boot. It's a great looking rig!

SDHawk

Thanks for the input. Yah, I am leaning that way. I do have a 86 High Sierra, so this is similar but it is earlier and probably more unique.

I believe that these bikes will appreciate in value (5, 10 years?). I know there is some thought on BF that it won't happen. Call me an optimist .

Maxey

At the very least the classic MTBs have stabilized in value and I believe will slowly start to rise if the economy starts to have a true recovery. As with any kind of collector 'vehicle,' the blue-chip collectibles like early Stumpjumpers, or, more run of the mill classics in pristine condition, already bring a nice premium when sought by the right buyers. Either way I don't get too hung up on values but simply enjoy these vintage bikes for what they are.

zukahn1 

Will at the least it won't go down in value at this point so if you have room at least keep it till early Summer when prices peak and ask $400 local sale if it sales fine if not your OK.. IMHO while not as rare interesting the High Sierra is better bike and would be the one I would keep if I had to choose.