So what if its old or entry level, so what if its a mtb? Still rolls down the road and functions the same. Like comparing a charger and challenger, better yet my cvpi to a charger; yeah its got 312+ hp to my 250, irs and a 6+ speed auto, but they both roll down the road the same and get barelly decent mpg, both fullsize rwd sedans and look great doing it. I'd rather dump money in my car, than just buy a charger.

I own three mtbs; a vintage high sierra, 800 Sport single Track, and a Kaitai. 4130 chromoly, hi-ten and 41 aluminum. They all roll down the street the same, they all are going to be basically built as street fighters/pavement pounders, sure the trek outwieghs the other two, and the schwinn is the slowest by gearing alone. They are still fun to ride and take to the skate park, nor do they feel as delicate as a roadbike.

Personally if the bike is overall fine, I'd replace the cables, chain, add a sealed bb and regrease the wheel bearings. If you wanna put $300 in a $300 old bike, then do it. Who cares if you have a different goal for the bike and not trying to compete in serious mtbing...even you were. Theres always another bike or car, but so what. I'm eventually going to track my car, I could get a miata, but Im not and the track is about where the functionality ends for the miata.