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redboy

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Was wondering if anyone can give me an idea of the value of this state of the art beast 🤣. This was my first mountain bike when I was in hs, paid a lot for this . I’m on the fence with a price , going to sell it, even though it has some sentimental value to me . I don’t want to rip anyone off plus myself …. Thanks
 
Before this is over, you're not going to like me.

First off, I'll say it looks like it's in great shape.

It might make a reasonably good commuter if you put roadish tires on it.

Yes, it was state of the art in its day.

I said all that to soften you up.

How much is it worth?

Maybe $100.

Why only $100? What's changed about mountain bikes since '97/98?

The list is long...

No more 26" wheels -- now 27.5 or 29"
No more rim brakes -- now disc
No more front derailleurs -- now 'one by' drivetrains
No more archaic frame geometry -- now 'modern geo'
Thru-axles in hubs
Tapered steerers in forks
Dropper seatposts
Wider rims & tires
Far superior suspension

I know you're sentimentally attached, but to the average 2023 mountain biker, your old bike is just not worth anything, really.
But you may find someone who wants to get into mountain biking that doesn't know much about the sport or all the stuff mentioned above.
Somebody like that might give you $100 or so.

Sorry. I don't like being the bearer of unwelcome news. Good luck.
=sParty
 
Just an FYI. It all depends on your local market.
There's a 1998-99? GF KaiTai for sale on my local CL for $235 and a Hoo Koo E Koo on FB for $45 OBO. The HooKoo is very tempting for me but I definitely don't need another vintage MTB.
I'd say it worth more than $100. I tend to see the larger framed ones getting better $$$.
 
I sold a 88 Fisher Montare during the start of Covid that was in that shape for $ 175. Also sold a 88 Merlin with a lot of cool parts , got a lot more for it. Got a $100 for a 82 ish Klein. Yo could post in the Vintage forum ,somebody might be interested.
 
I use an old 26” mtb permanently on my indoor trainer.
 
On my craigslist someone would post it for $200-$300. It will be there for months. Eventually the post will vanish. If posted for $100-$150 it would more quick for some looking for basic transportation. So here the market rate is somewhere between $150-200.

I would be interested in the last time the fork was serviced and if parts are available. If not there is another $200 for a rockshox recon (26in, 100mm, straight steerer, disc and rim mounts).

We are now at a cost of $300-$400. Plus any consumables that need replaced.

My issue with bikes like this is it is better (assuming it doesn't have deferred maintenance) than anything that you could buy new for the going market value.
 
Discussion starter · #13 ·
Thanks for all the feedback . I know its not worth much today , maybe ill just give it to some kid around the neighborhood for $900-1800 🤣 .. silly me , when trex bought out Gary Fisher I thought this bike would bring in some coin , sad they went out made some nice bikes ….
 
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