I have a GT RTS-2 mountain bike. It was built in 1992, was one of the top of the line bikes having an aluminum frame, Rock Shox front fork and Noleen rear suspension. Triple chainring and 8 cogs on the cassette. Deore LX components.

I know this is an old bike and the newer ones are better, but can someone advise what is so different with the newer MTB's other than carbon fiber and disc brakes? I mean, for just casual cross-training and beginner MTB races am I at that big of a disadvantage with this old of a bike? I know for road bikes the weight is a big thing, and the lighter the better, but not sure what's going on with full suspension MTB's. I don't know for sure what my bike weighs, but I believe it was listed at about 30 lbs or a little less (28.5 lbs on one site, but that one has been modified).

Just trying to figure out if I need to get a new MTB if I decide to do more cross training or if mine is fine but I should do some upgrades or something (recommendations?).

Thanks all,
Dan'o :}