sportridertex

I had a older Specialized Hard Rock that I unloaded 8 years ago, I'd like to get back into the Mountain Bike riding, seems all the newer bikes are suspension and all, I'd like to find a 80's non suspension type of bike.

I think I'd be more of a trail rider than a jumper, just like the idea of wide,knobby tires and my current Road bike and Hybrid are just not too well designed for dirt trails.

samburger

Check craigslist. The fact that you're looking specifically for an older bike will be beneficial for your wallet, but you may have troubles finding a mountain bike dating back as far as the '80's. If you're willing to settle for a rigid late-90's/early 2k's, you should be able to pick one up pretty cheap & have several to choose from. Just stick with the names you know--Specialized & Trek are the only names I can vouch for as far as older bikes, but that's just because I'm young & didn't know a thing about mountain biking when I was ten in 2000. I'm sure some of the more experienced guys can recommend a few other names.

kenhill3

OP-

Member 'Lester Of Puppets' is knowledgeable on the subject and is even located in your area. Maybe he can help hook you up.

ed 

You can get the benefits of modern geometry (more comfortable, stable, fun) with the rigid simplicity that you want if you check out Surly. I'm really digging the Troll lately. You can get the frame/fork combo pretty cheap and have someone build it for you if you don't want to do it yourself. Surly may offer a complete too.


What size?
How much are you willing to spend?
Do you want snappy, light, inexpensive aluminum?
Forgiving, slightly heavier, possibly more expensive steel?
Do you want a good "performance" bike that will inspire you to ride trails faster?
Do you want a cheap as possible ride that will take you through some inspiring views?

I've got a 1980's rigid Raleigh that IMO isn't worth more than $75...it will take me through inspiring trails, but I feel no real sense of urgency.
I have a 1998 rigid Komodo that's worth more, is pretty light and inspires me to ride the smoother trails rather quickly.




Bikes that come to mind are older ones by Klein, Trek, Specialized, Moots, KHS, Jamis, Giant, Cannondale...depending on how old, could be a dime a dozen.

sportridertex

I'm 5'11", seems a lot of the mountain bikes, people will ride a smaller frame, I have a 58cm Cannondale road bike now.

I'm leaning in the direction of a CraigsList find. I've spent enough money this year on new bikes.

scyclops

Older GT bikes are nice too, when you can find them - they seem to have a rather loyal, almost cult-like fan base.

Daspydyr 

Up in your neck of the woods you will see Norco quite a bit. I like em. They are another price point retailer. They have been around a long time and the frames seem to hang together well. Components are usually what you expect for the price point.