I came across a used Mongoose Alta with two sets of tires -- slicks and knobby -- on craigslist that I'm thinking about buying for some local greenways and easier trails. I've done a little research and it looks like this thing is from before Pacific Bikes turned Mongoose into a Walmart brand. Also, I think the material is Chromoly steel. However, I don't know enough about bikes in general to be sure.

Here are my questions for you:

• Can anyone tell from the picture what year or year-range the bike is?
• What do you think the value of this bike is?
• Any other advice you care to give?

Picture:


Seller's description:
Bike has been professionally tuned and is ready to go. Would make a great commuter. Size is 21" or 54cm. Can accommodate a taller rider as it has a long seat post (seen in picture). Currently has 80 psi slicks on it with thornproof tubes. Includes a set of knobby tires as well.

Since it's a bigger frame, some of you might wonder about my height. I'm 5'11.