I'm new to mtb's and recently picked up a 1995 Trek 7000 SHX to ride around the neighborhood, bike paths and eventually some light dirt trails. Nothing extreme, just having some fun and getting in shape. I've already had the LBS tune up the Trek and it rides great. The bike itself is in great shape and has all the original components, besides the seat and tires. It's a 19.5" frame and I'm 5'10", but I'm pretty comfortable on it. The only thing I was thinking of changing is the stem, to a shorter length.

Now, I still have a "Want To Buy" ad on CL, in the case that a higher quality bike and/or possibly a smaller frame size comes along. In that case, I would sell the Trek and put the money into the 'new' bike. I've actually been getting quite a few replies, but nothing better than what I already have, until today (I think).

Today I got a reply for a 1998 Gary Fisher Mt. Tam 19". The seller said it rides great, been kept in garage it's whole life and gives it a 7+ on a scale of 1-10. From the picture he sent, it looks like the stem has been possibly swapped for a higher angle, but I think the rest is original. Can't tell if the chain is rusty or just dirty. He's offering it to me for $200, which is the max I'm willing to spend. I'll attach the photo below.

So now, I'm considering going to check it out and possibly buying it as an upgrade to my Trek. Would this be a smart move? I'm pretty sure I could sell my Trek and pay for the Gary Fisher without coming out of pocket. Would it be a "no brainer" in that situation?

The Trek was $1000 in '95 and the GF was $1800 in '98...roughly $1575 and $2650 today, calculating for inflation. Is it really THAT much better of a bike?

Sorry for the long post, but thanks in advance for any suggestions!