Originally Posted by bikemig

That is a very solid price on an old mountain bike. Pics would be very helpful. You'll need to overhaul the bike completely (headset, bottom bracket, and hubs at a minimum). Look for grade 25 ball bearings and get some good grease like Park or Phil Wood. I'd also replace all the consumables (chain, cables, housing).

This was an upper level mountain bike back in the day. Value is tough. Old mountain bikes aren't worth much usually (there are some exceptions) but you live in a fairly hot market so you did well at $50. Heck I'd pay $50 for one of those in Des Moines.

You will also want to replace the tires with some slicks (probably 26 x 1.5 or 1.75) for general road riding. Resist getting skinny tires (1.25 or narrower). This bike has a good plush ride and a little fatter tire run at lower pressure will bring out its ride qualities.