Hi,

I ride the Giant 970 ATX with the original 8-speed cassette.
It needs to be replaced.
I'm a regular XC rider, not too brave.

Please advise,

Thanks

I used this when I ran 8 speed. https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/129...te-8-Speed.htm
Replace the chain too as you never want to use an old worn out chain with a fresh cassette
https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/111...ower-Link-.htm
How old of a bike are we talking here? If you've ridden it for a long time with a bad cassette you may need new chain rings up front as well

<looks at Danna's location
Yow! Well alrighty then! I suppose the links may not help you much pricewise, but I stand by the products I linked to on the website

Actually, the links do help and so do the prices (as I don't shop locally).
Well, the bike is from 1999, and if replacing - should I not upgrade to 9-speed?
if so, can you please recommend a product + suitable chain and chain rings (should chain rings be changed from 8 to 9 speed?)

thanks again!

It's not necessary to do so. If your eight speed shifters and derailieurs are in good condition then by all means stick with them. I'm at the point where I'd rather spend $30 to replace disposable parts than spend that and more to gain a single extra middle gear.Chainrings will be 9 speed (can be used with 8 speed) regardless of brand these days. Beyond that I'd still suggest the equivelant 9 speed parts from SRAM ( model 950 and up)