The auctioneer's voice rang through the warehouse as he announced the start of the bidding, held at the Surplus Warehouse behind Parking Lot 83 North.

"I have a bike here that is good for its parts," auctioneer Ron Gilligan of State College said.

The bike, lacking wheels, was sold for $2.

Approximately 180 people, including students, University faculty members and townspeople, braved Friday's rain to participate in the annual Penn State auction sponsored by University Police Services.

A total of 185 bikes, ranging from Huffys to Trek Mountain 10 speeds, was auctioned off.

"The bikes sold relatively well," Gilligan said.

Police collected bikes that were abandoned on campus for the auction.

"We try to locate the serial numbers and notify the owner to pick it up within 90 days," said University Police Supervisor Robert McNichol. "Those that are left are sold."

The bikes were placed into three categories based on their condition. The first 10 bikes in the "poor" category lacked wheels, frames, and seats. They went for $2 to $10.

The "average" condition bikes needed paint jobs and some minor parts. They brought a price of between $5 and $50.

The "better" condition bikes sold for $80 to $90.

Each bike registered in the auction has an identification number. The buyer needs to register and receive an auction card to participate in the bidding.

Elise Murowchick of State College purchased a white, 10-speed bike for $10. "It was the best investment that I ever made," Murowchick said.

Jen Lee (senior-parks and recreation) attended her first bike auction with the hopes of purchasing a Trek Mountainview 10-speed bike. "I found out about the auction from an advertisement in the Collegian," Lee said.

Proceeds from the auction will go into a student fund.