knightryda510

So I decided to use the old diamondback outlook that was sitting outside in the back yard. This bike was given to my dad who doesn't even touch it so I thought I'd make use of it. I don't know much of mountain bikes so I'm pretty much a noob with parts and components. I also read the sticky MTB FAQs.

Ok, so I want an entry level mountain bike capable of xc trails when more experienced. First on my list is to buy a helmet and gloves. Then judging by the bikes conditions I think I'll upgrade the brakes to V-brakes. Is it possible to convert from cantilever? Next will be to change the fork to coil suspension. Does it sound like I'm heading the right direction? If not, what should I be looking into upgrading? I want to take the bike to a LBS but its too far and my hatchback can't fit a bike w/out a rack.

Frame - DB MTN tubing (chrome moly)
Fork - Tange Unicrown
Brakes - alloy cantilever
Levers - cantilever / black
Crankset - Sakae triple / 48x38x28x170
Cogset - 6 speed
Derailers - Shimano SIS
Shifters - Shimano SIS with gear indicator
Rims - alloy 26x1.5
Hubset - alloy 36 spoke / black
Pedals - VP 887 MTN
Saddle - Avenir
Seatpost - steel
Handlebars - DB black
Stem - DB black
Grips - Avenir rubber

sherpaPeak

welcome to the forum......I am glad that you have decided mountain biking...its a great sport and a great passion...

Now, please dont take my response as negative. I think it would be pretty expensive to upgrade this bike to the level you have described. You probably can buy a decent used bike for less than that. Check the local craig list or news papers. Also, if you have access check out ebay (you may need some help from somebody who knows about mountain bikes). Your dad may be able to help you with that.

You can also check out the local bike shops for who may help you with a payment plan. in this way you can pay them little by little and in a few months you can purchase a nice bike. If you have some savings that would help. I saw some decent Iron Horse and Diamondback bikes at Dick's Sporting Goods stores that is pretty cheap....some stores may also offer some winter blowout sale.....so keep an eye on those....


Finally, there is nothing wrong with upgrading an old bike. but when the upgrading cost is more than a new bike, its almost worth it to buy the new one. Also, mountain bike technology is changing rapidly, so a newer bike will offer you some of those newer technology and will have options necessary for upgrading.

keep asking questions in this forum. Most of the members are really helpful and friendly people. I am really amazed by how helpful and informative this group is.

again, welcome.

jm01

+1...I'd leave the old girl exactly as she is...the build is perfect for what you'll be using it for.

But yes, you can swap the canti's for V-brakes, but you'll have to have to change the levers as well (the fulcrum point is different for each type)...but leave the canti's...they're much better and easier to set up...you can modulate the braking pressure much better, especially on the fast descents.

Also, I'd leave the fork alone as well...the best you'll be able to do here is 50-80mm without negatively affecting the head angle...any more travel and you'll slacken the HA and end up with a mushy handling bike

Best advice is to save your money, learn the basic skills on the trails, and upgrade to a good hard tail...just stay away fom those cheap full suspension bikes

Also, those SIS derailleurs are great...although they're inexpensive, once dialed in, they 100% accurate and smooth...the friction shifters are OK, but I'd look for a grip shift or rapid fire on the next bike

happy trails

PS chain needs oil

EDIT: looking at the pics...you may find that adding a suspension fork may not be as easy as you think...depending on what you choose, you may need a new headset and stem...probably a new bar as well

If you're set on a new fork, take a look at those RST's that are on some hybrids, they may fit with your current set up...just keep in mind that they're not built for rough MTB use

taylor p

do what sherpaPeak said

knightryda510

You guys ROCK! Thank you for the warm welcome sherpaPeak! I've always been riding ever since I was a kid but for some reason I stopped during high school. I know why.. but now I want to get back in it 9 years later. I still have my scars! LOL

Ok, I think you guys really helped me narrow down my decision not to upgrade the bike. My father is retiring soon so I'll let him use this bike and I'll keep an eye out for a used one on craigs or ebay. I've been doing some more researching and narrowed it down to either a trek 4300 or specialized hardrock sport. they're both in the same price range and well around my budget. everything i read has compared them almost equally but i really like the looks of the hardrock.

Anyways, I'm glad I found this site with so much helpful people. I probably would of have been out riding a Walmart/Target bike right now if I didn't find this!!!

knightryda510

Thanks for the detailed observation!! Sounds like I'll be spending too much to upgrade.