Is the bike to old? 2002
07-18-05, 01:05 AM
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Is the bike to old? 2002
Hi!
I haven’t ridden mountain bike for quite some time, and now I’m thinking about picking it up again. Not racing, just for fun.
I’m thinking about buying a used Specialized s-works 2002, all XTR. I’ve read good things about the s-woks on the internet. But the age of this bike worries me. Maybe it’s better to get a cheaper newer bike instead if this quite expensive old bike? I’m hoping to get the s-works for about 1300 usd. But with advancements being made to bikes all the time, maybe a new 13000usd bike is even lighter and better then this 02 bike? What do you think?
I haven’t ridden mountain bike for quite some time, and now I’m thinking about picking it up again. Not racing, just for fun.
I’m thinking about buying a used Specialized s-works 2002, all XTR. I’ve read good things about the s-woks on the internet. But the age of this bike worries me. Maybe it’s better to get a cheaper newer bike instead if this quite expensive old bike? I’m hoping to get the s-works for about 1300 usd. But with advancements being made to bikes all the time, maybe a new 13000usd bike is even lighter and better then this 02 bike? What do you think?
07-18-05, 02:04 AM
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The cost of new bikes has dropped significantly in the past few years. I'm not to farmilier with the S-Works, but if it has been ridden for 2 years, i'd say buy a new bike now. Newer parts and most likley lighter. But I really dont know the s-works to well to give you an idea.
07-18-05, 03:20 AM
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I'd buy a new bike with the 1300 USD. 
Technology has evolved a lot in the past 3 years and the same goes for bikes.
Technology has evolved a lot in the past 3 years and the same goes for bikes.
07-18-05, 04:58 AM
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Thanks for your replies! :-)
I found out that the 02 s-works that I was thinking about was only a 18". I think that would be to small for me, I'm 6.0, or 183cm.
There is another thing that I didnt mention before, and that is that I live in Sweden. Somehow the equivalent of 1300usd only get you a new 700 dollar bike if you check suggested retail prices on mtbr.com.
One example is the 05 trek 6500disc, that bike has a suggested retail price of 780usd, but in this damn country they charge 1400usd for the exact same bike.
Maybe a 02 isnt that bad after all, dont you think it's unfair to compare a 800usd bike thats brand new to a 3 year old 3000usd bike. Or do you guys still feel I should go with a new bike?
I found out that the 02 s-works that I was thinking about was only a 18". I think that would be to small for me, I'm 6.0, or 183cm.
There is another thing that I didnt mention before, and that is that I live in Sweden. Somehow the equivalent of 1300usd only get you a new 700 dollar bike if you check suggested retail prices on mtbr.com.
One example is the 05 trek 6500disc, that bike has a suggested retail price of 780usd, but in this damn country they charge 1400usd for the exact same bike.
Maybe a 02 isnt that bad after all, dont you think it's unfair to compare a 800usd bike thats brand new to a 3 year old 3000usd bike. Or do you guys still feel I should go with a new bike?
07-18-05, 05:51 AM
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Originally Posted by Zulan
Thanks for your replies! :-)
I found out that the 02 s-works that I was thinking about was only a 18". I think that would be to small for me, I'm 6.0, or 183cm.
There is another thing that I didnt mention before, and that is that I live in Sweden. Somehow the equivalent of 1300usd only get you a new 700 dollar bike if you check suggested retail prices on mtbr.com.
One example is the 05 trek 6500disc, that bike has a suggested retail price of 780usd, but in this damn country they charge 1400usd for the exact same bike.
Maybe a 02 isnt that bad after all, dont you think it's unfair to compare a 800usd bike thats brand new to a 3 year old 3000usd bike. Or do you guys still feel I should go with a new bike?
I found out that the 02 s-works that I was thinking about was only a 18". I think that would be to small for me, I'm 6.0, or 183cm.
There is another thing that I didnt mention before, and that is that I live in Sweden. Somehow the equivalent of 1300usd only get you a new 700 dollar bike if you check suggested retail prices on mtbr.com.
One example is the 05 trek 6500disc, that bike has a suggested retail price of 780usd, but in this damn country they charge 1400usd for the exact same bike.
Maybe a 02 isnt that bad after all, dont you think it's unfair to compare a 800usd bike thats brand new to a 3 year old 3000usd bike. Or do you guys still feel I should go with a new bike?
If the S-works is in good condition, I would say go for it. The frame size maybe a tiny bit small for you, but with a longer stem, you would be fine. I'm 5'10 and an 18" frame fits me perfectly fine.
Technology on bikes haven't evolved that much on XTR equipment, but fork and shock technology did change quite a bit. However, you wouldn't be getting any high end fork/shock on a Trek 6500 anyways, so I'd pick up the S-works because they're great bikes.
07-18-05, 06:34 AM
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Originally Posted by Zulan
I’m thinking about buying a used Specialized s-works 2002, all XTR.
And remember the bike is closer to 4 years old than 3.
Personally, I would get a new bike. The reason why?
I think you would have to get a new fork for that frame anyway.
The change in forks the last 3-4 years has been amazing.
If you wanted to get the bike I would suggest getting a fox float 80x to put up front.
That would be a sweet race machine!!
Originally Posted by blue_neon
The cost of new bikes has dropped significantly in the past few years
Just your basic stumpy with discs cost $1,500
Full XTR, High Zoot wheels and an S works frame? Ouch
07-18-05, 07:17 AM
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Throw the stick!!!!
Which S-Works is it? What condition is the bike in? If the bike hasn't been ridden into the ground it will be a much nicer bike than anything you are going to get in the same price range (you stated $700 USD).
If the bike has been ridden hard I would stay away from it though.
If the bike has been ridden hard I would stay away from it though.
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07-18-05, 08:22 AM
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It's the hardtail, I have only spoken to the guy so I'm not certain about the condition, but accourding to him it's mint. I'm thinking about going over there and try it out, it is in another city though. But when Sparks say 18" fits him fine and he's 5'10, then I can't see how the bike will fit me with my 6'0 in length.
07-18-05, 08:39 AM
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I agree that it's inaccurate to say that 'technology has improved so much' in the last few years, or that bikes have gotten cheaper.
For one thing, bikes have gotten more expensive. That's a fact.
Certain _areas_ of technology have improved, but 90% of the bike hasn't changed much. Shocks are probably the biggest one. Freeride bikes have evolved very quickly too, but the bike in question is a XC racer, which is a fairly mature category.
With the S-works, you're getting a top of the line frame and top of the line parts. You'll also get a front shock that is _slightly_ outdated, but probably a top of the line model.
A $700 bike will get you a low end frame, low end parts, and a low end shock.
If the S-works is in very good condition, i'd say go for it. You might want to invest in a new shock and maybe disc brakes (if you want/need them), but the bike is probably a great ride as it is (assuming the condition is as described).
-robin
For one thing, bikes have gotten more expensive. That's a fact.
Certain _areas_ of technology have improved, but 90% of the bike hasn't changed much. Shocks are probably the biggest one. Freeride bikes have evolved very quickly too, but the bike in question is a XC racer, which is a fairly mature category.
With the S-works, you're getting a top of the line frame and top of the line parts. You'll also get a front shock that is _slightly_ outdated, but probably a top of the line model.
A $700 bike will get you a low end frame, low end parts, and a low end shock.
If the S-works is in very good condition, i'd say go for it. You might want to invest in a new shock and maybe disc brakes (if you want/need them), but the bike is probably a great ride as it is (assuming the condition is as described).
-robin
07-18-05, 09:27 AM
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Originally Posted by Zulan
It's the hardtail, I have only spoken to the guy so I'm not certain about the condition, but accourding to him it's mint. I'm thinking about going over there and try it out, it is in another city though. But when Sparks say 18" fits him fine and he's 5'10, then I can't see how the bike will fit me with my 6'0 in length.
Depending on how the bike is set up now you may not need to change anything. How tall is the seller? Since the bike has a standard seat tube you will have many options for adjustment of the seat hight. If the bars a just a little to close you can get a longer stem.
Again I say you should at least go check it out.
07-18-05, 06:33 PM
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An 18" frame should be just fine for a 6'0" person; I'm 5'11" and my old Stumpy (a 2002 model BTW) worked great for me. As to the bike; you're much better off with an S-Works, full XTR Stumpy than some cheesey new bike with crap components.
07-19-05, 12:05 AM
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Originally Posted by CranxOC
An 18" frame should be just fine for a 6'0" person; .
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07-19-05, 01:08 AM
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Hi guys!
I really appreciate all your feedback on this!
Yesterday evening I when and test drove the bike. He is used to race MTB but had to quit because of a back problem. This bike was only used for the races. He had another bike for practice. The bike looked to be in good condition, I could only find 2 small spots where some paint was missing. It didn’t look worn an all. The chain and cogs where recently replaced with new once. Everything was stock except pedals and seat.
When I tried it out my biggest concern was of course size, and it did feel small. But then again, I haven’t ridden mountain bikes for quite some time and I’m used to my standard “get to work bike”. The seat post was of course tuned for the owner’s height and he was not as tall as me. He told me that the steering stem (not sure on the English word for this, but the part holding the handlebar.) could be turned upside down and thereby raising the handlebar. There was quite a lot of room to raise the seat post.
The bike felt very well put together, nothing was loose and nothing felt wrong.
I told him I would think about it until today; I think I might just go for it, but I havent really decided yet.
I really appreciate all your feedback on this!
Yesterday evening I when and test drove the bike. He is used to race MTB but had to quit because of a back problem. This bike was only used for the races. He had another bike for practice. The bike looked to be in good condition, I could only find 2 small spots where some paint was missing. It didn’t look worn an all. The chain and cogs where recently replaced with new once. Everything was stock except pedals and seat.
When I tried it out my biggest concern was of course size, and it did feel small. But then again, I haven’t ridden mountain bikes for quite some time and I’m used to my standard “get to work bike”. The seat post was of course tuned for the owner’s height and he was not as tall as me. He told me that the steering stem (not sure on the English word for this, but the part holding the handlebar.) could be turned upside down and thereby raising the handlebar. There was quite a lot of room to raise the seat post.
The bike felt very well put together, nothing was loose and nothing felt wrong.
I told him I would think about it until today; I think I might just go for it, but I havent really decided yet.
Last edited by Zulan; 07-19-05 at 01:27 AM.
07-19-05, 01:27 AM
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Originally Posted by Zulan
Hi guys!
I really appreciate all your feedback on this!
Yesterday evening I when and test drove the bike. He is used to race MTB but had to quit because of a back problem. This bike was only used for the races. He had another bike for practice. The bike looked to be in good condition, I could only find 2 small spots where some paint was missing. It didn’t look worn an all. The chain and cogs where recently replaced with new once. Everything was stock except pedals and seat.
When I tried it out my biggest concern was of course size, and it did feel small. But then again, I haven’t ridden mountain bikes for quite some time and I’m used to my standard “get to work bike”. The seat post was of course tuned for the owner’s height and he was not as tall as me. He told me that the steering stem (not sure on the English word for this, but the part holding the handlebar.) could be turned upside down and thereby raising the handlebar. There was quite a lot of room to raise the seat post.
The bike felt very well put together, nothing was loose and nothing felt wrong.
I told him I would think about it until today; I think I might just go for it.
I really appreciate all your feedback on this!
Yesterday evening I when and test drove the bike. He is used to race MTB but had to quit because of a back problem. This bike was only used for the races. He had another bike for practice. The bike looked to be in good condition, I could only find 2 small spots where some paint was missing. It didn’t look worn an all. The chain and cogs where recently replaced with new once. Everything was stock except pedals and seat.
When I tried it out my biggest concern was of course size, and it did feel small. But then again, I haven’t ridden mountain bikes for quite some time and I’m used to my standard “get to work bike”. The seat post was of course tuned for the owner’s height and he was not as tall as me. He told me that the steering stem (not sure on the English word for this, but the part holding the handlebar.) could be turned upside down and thereby raising the handlebar. There was quite a lot of room to raise the seat post.
The bike felt very well put together, nothing was loose and nothing felt wrong.
I told him I would think about it until today; I think I might just go for it.
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07-19-05, 03:07 AM
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Originally Posted by Raiyn
I say go for it
I just called the guy saing I'm picking the bike up this afternoon. I'm confident that I've made the right decision, and I really appreciate all the input you guys have given me.
07-19-05, 07:20 AM
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Originally Posted by Zulan
Hi guys!
I really appreciate all your feedback on this!
Yesterday evening I when and test drove the bike. He is used to race MTB but had to quit because of a back problem. This bike was only used for the races. He had another bike for practice. The bike looked to be in good condition, I could only find 2 small spots where some paint was missing. It didn’t look worn an all. The chain and cogs where recently replaced with new once. Everything was stock except pedals and seat.
When I tried it out my biggest concern was of course size, and it did feel small. But then again, I haven’t ridden mountain bikes for quite some time and I’m used to my standard “get to work bike”. The seat post was of course tuned for the owner’s height and he was not as tall as me. He told me that the steering stem (not sure on the English word for this, but the part holding the handlebar.) could be turned upside down and thereby raising the handlebar. There was quite a lot of room to raise the seat post.
The bike felt very well put together, nothing was loose and nothing felt wrong.
I told him I would think about it until today; I think I might just go for it, but I havent really decided yet.
I really appreciate all your feedback on this!
Yesterday evening I when and test drove the bike. He is used to race MTB but had to quit because of a back problem. This bike was only used for the races. He had another bike for practice. The bike looked to be in good condition, I could only find 2 small spots where some paint was missing. It didn’t look worn an all. The chain and cogs where recently replaced with new once. Everything was stock except pedals and seat.
When I tried it out my biggest concern was of course size, and it did feel small. But then again, I haven’t ridden mountain bikes for quite some time and I’m used to my standard “get to work bike”. The seat post was of course tuned for the owner’s height and he was not as tall as me. He told me that the steering stem (not sure on the English word for this, but the part holding the handlebar.) could be turned upside down and thereby raising the handlebar. There was quite a lot of room to raise the seat post.
The bike felt very well put together, nothing was loose and nothing felt wrong.
I told him I would think about it until today; I think I might just go for it, but I havent really decided yet.
If the reach from the seat feels to small you may want a longer stem rather then flipping the old one. Fliping the old one will give you a more up wright position but will not increase the length. Depending on what type of riding you do then you may even want to keep a shorter reach. It will come down to personal prefference.
Now get the bike
