Here are some pics of my 90's model low end steel frame trek mtn bike. Sorry about the view from the non drive side. I took them in a hurry to share w/ droy during a recent suspension fork conversion thread.
I use this rig to commute, pull my trailers, leave locked up downtown, ride w/ my kids, throw in the bike rack at the library, grocery, schools, loaner bike, etc....
I also use it for many trail/single track rides in dry conditions.
I am running 28-38-48 touring triple with an 11-30 rear cassette. Schwalbe Big Apples, higher end model for lighter weight. Over time everything changed out other than frame itself. Always upgrade components when you wear something out.
Extremely versatile, smooth, fast ride for commuting.