Originally Posted by mtnroads

The 520 uses a better grade of Chromo than the 830 - True Temper Ox, it is lighter. I have a 93 Trek 970, similar to your 830 but Ox tubing, and a 95 520 with the same material and they are very similar in feel. The mtn bike frame is stretched a bit more in the front triangle, slightly shorter in the chainstays, overall similar wheelbase. I have the 970 set up for kind of all terrain/city bike use with Conti Town and Country tires and racks, raised the bars/stem. I like 'em both except the crank arms are a bit long for spinning all day on my 970 - 175 vs 170 on the 520.