My Rockhopper FS is approximately 1993 vintage. It has a tired Shimano Exage group with 7 speed cassete and a triple up front. The cassette and chain rings are definitely worn.

What is an economical route for replacement? I do not see any Exage or even any Shimano 7 speed parts. Do I need to replace the entire shifting group with something like a Shimano Deore XT? I suppose that would need to include the shifters too. With a new chain I'd be looking at $540.... getting to be a major percentage of the cost of a new bike.

I'd sure appreciate some advice on some alternatives for going forward.