Price Check! 03 GZ250

[peanut]

I found a GZ250 near me and could use an opinion on price. I'd like to pay closer to $1100, but I don't want to rip off the seller either.

From the ad:
"2003 GZ250
7k miles
Starts and runs good
All in good shape besides gas tank dents and brake lever cracked, but still works
new battery..."

The dent appears to be on the front of the gast tank...not sure how that happens... and not on the side where the cracked brake lever is. So it doesn't look like a drop from the pictures.

Heres the CL ad too.
http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/mcy/3823282791.html
Thanks!

[Water Warrior 2]

Keep looking. I would have to see the bike in person but the pics do show something to be wary of. The last pic from the riders position does not show the fender lining up with the headlight. This may be a sign the forks were twisted in a mishap and might need repairing. If they were tweaked out of position there is no problem but if bent you will likely need to replace them. Take some one along who knows what to look for and get their opinion.
Maybe just wait for the next GZ to come along on CL.
Many years ago I was interested in a really sweet looking Honda at a car dealer who took it in as a trade. The salesman was sitting on it as I stood back and looked at the front end. The frame appeared to have been bent or twisted near the steering head and the forks were way out of alignment. It needed a frame to make it safe.

[jonathan180iq]

I agree with WW. There also seems to be a dent right at top center of the tank. I don't really know how that could happen.... And about the front fender, that photo is taken right of center and it appears that the front fender is even right of center than that. Riding it in person might be another story. But either way, it's not worth $1400.

[peanut]

Wow, good eyes you two! Perhaps something fell from above and gave it that funky dent and messed up the finder? Who knows.

I'll keep looking, thanks!

[Water Warrior 2]

Peanut, keep looking. There are lots of bikes out there looking for a new home. A pristine bike will cost more initially but might well be worthwhile in the long run.

[peanut]

Thanks WW. I was looking at some early 80's bikes under $1k... So looking at newer nukes is a big step for me! And anyway, I love the look of the gz250!

This one looks better, right??
http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/mcy/3836231066.html

[Water Warrior 2]

Originally Posted by peanut

Thanks WW. I was looking at some early 80's bikes under $1k... So looking at newer nukes is a big step for me! And anyway, I love the look of the gz250!

This one looks better, right??
http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/mcy/3836231066.html

Looks like a much better bike from the pics. Well equiped and likely better taken care of from all appearances. The only thing I see is a missing Righthand bar end which is no big deal at all.
If this would be your 1st bike you likely won't go wrong. Ask the seller for a maintenance record. Likely the valves were done at 5000 miles, if not it is not a big deal. A dealer will charge you an hour's labor to do it.
I can't say good or bad concerning price because I base most of my knowledge in Canadian $. Others can help ypu out on that. The GZs on CL in my area have prices that would stop your heart.. Not saying they sell for that but that is the asking price.

[peanut]

It would be my first. Thanks for looking athe ad for me too.

[Water Warrior 2]

I can't think of a better 1st bike. Good luck in your search. If and when a GZ enters your life we will gladly answer any and all of the silly questions that you will have. We have all been there. Some of us are still there. LOL.

[jonathan180iq]

That last one you posted is a fair price. Granted, it's what he listed it for. I would be happy to leave there having spent $1700.
Offer $1500 if you have the money and see where that gets you.