1997 Trek 820 for a commuter
 

So I am looking for a commuter bike now, and think I will convert a mtb to a commuter. I came across this bike on craigslist. I've talk to the owner who is the original owner and the bike is in the right size for. They want $175 but I was hoping to stay below $150. But, the bike already has slicks (not pictured) and was recently tuned up, and wheels were trued, so I would save money on that aspect. What do you guys think? Sorry the pics may not be the best at times. Its what the owner sent me. Thanks for any insight.

That's older than 1997, 97's were 820 "Mountain Track", the Antelopes were older. 1996 possibly? It appears to be in excellent condition but $175 seems a bit high for an 820 of that vintage but then I'm a cheapskate. My wife and I bought 820's new in '97 and still have them although I have upgraded them several times over the years. Personally I think an 820 would make a great commuter, I've put a lot of miles on mine. Except for a different saddle and a Blackburn rear rack here's the wife's in it's latest configuration.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=390484

The original parts are still going strong on another bike.

I commuted on an 820 "Mountaintrack" for a year or so. Was a great bike for that purpose. Cro-Moly main frame and forks, Shimano Acera 21 speed. Originally mine would have had cantilever brakes but the PO upgraded to V brakes which stopped the bike very well. I paid $100 (Australian) for it in 2012.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=390492

I am still riding my 1990 820. I think it is a great bike for commuting. I did have my shifters and brakes replace but it has taken a lot of abuse/love.

Back in the mid 80's my first MTB was an 820. I loved it. Steel, long top tube, feel in love with Mountain biking on that bike.

With a few changes It would make a great commuter. BUT $175 is entirely too much for that bike. Without knowing too many details, I have to say that is $100 bike at the most in my book.

I've loved mine. I don't commute on it often, as I have a road bike, but I haven't been disappointed when I have. Mine is a '00 model I believe. It was a craigslist purchase as well. I picked it up for $80, but had to replace the cassette, steam, and seat. All in all I have about $160 in it. Great bike.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=390617

Red with White stickers is a 1990. Some of my least favorite shifters on there but a pretty good riding bike. That sure is expensive for an old MTB, at least it would be on my local CL.

I took a closer look once I read your response. It does look just like mine which is a 1990. As much as I live my bike, I wouldn't pay $100 for it.

I ride a 1990 trek 7000 and I paid 125 for it with better LX components. But even those I ended up mostly replacing.

This wouldn't be a bad bike for less money.

It would be a good bike. Early steel Trek MTBs lend themselves well to being all-round bikes.

Thanks guys. Seems too much for me even for being in good condition. I have found mid 90s/early 2000s in the $100 range i am leaning towards. I told the girl if she is willing to do 125 id buy it. So hopefully she calls.

how long is your commute?

Any bike can be a commuter ;)

I see you own a Trek 1.1. Have you commuted with it? Personally I like mixing it up, taking a road bike at times, and when an easygoing mood strikes, a MTB with it's cushy fat tires really fit the bill. I think you are on the right track!

Yeah I have commuted with the 1.1 but when I ride I hate wearing a back back especially to work, my back gets to sweaty. So I added a rack, and it became too much of a hassle when riding. It felt unstable with a rack and loaded bag on the 23c tire. Plus my route goes over a crappy street with RR tracks, so I wanted a thicker stronger tire/wheel. Yeah commuting on another bike is slower, but more comfortable, and less sweaty for me when I get to the office.