Originally Posted by
PandaExpress
Definitely the direction I'm thinking of going in for my main utility/commuter/do-all bike. Question though, what should I be looking for when I go to check out these old MTB frames? I know they should be steel framed, chromyl if possible without any cracks. I'm going to be replacing the tires anyways, so probably no problems there. Anything in particular you think I should keep an eye out for? And besides changing out the tires, what else must be done to hardtail MTB to make them suitable for commuting?
Oh, and another newbie question: What sized tires will these older MTB hardtails use? 26 in? And does it make a really big difference if the wheels are 700c or 26 in?
If you can snag a late 80's/ early 90's steel frame mountain bike, you can pretty much ride it to work the next day (assuming that everything works). Swapping out the tires for slicks is a big performance improvement, but even with knobbies, they work. Other options to consider are bar ends & a rack. Fenders & lights if you will be riding in a rainy climate &/or at night. Oh also, when you are looking at the frame, make sure it's not rusty.
Most of the mountain bikes you will be looking at from that era will be 26" wheels. It doesn't really matter, you can find tires/tubes in both sizes easily.
Good luck in your quest. I have an early 90's Specialized Rockhopper that was my first commuter. I just fixed it up to ride again & it's amazing how nice the ride is.