[hunterc4]

I have a Raleigh M-400 that I got in the late 90's. It currently has street tires on it that I only ride for fun every once-in-a-while. A friend of mine recently got a new mountain bike and has been trail riding. I want to get back into riding. I noticed all the new innovations: disc brakes, better suspension etc., and I'm wondering if I should look at upgrading some of my bike. Also, would it be worth getting some new components or just buying something new (won't spend more than ~$500 on a new bike). My back brakes suck, and the gears never shift right (usually hear some noises then eventually it shifts when it decides). I have Shimano XTC components right now I think.

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

 

[Berkeley Mike]

it really depends upon your mechanical skills and tenacity

Don't underestimate your Raleigh. A good deep clean really do and turning will turn that into a great value. Cleaned and lubed shifters and deraileurs with new cables and housings make an amazing difference in the way the bike operates. Same with brakes; cables and pads and nice adjustment works wonders.

That said, it takes some skill to make that happen. Upgrading a few components might seem nice but you still have to get all your systems up and working well to enjoy the bike. It will be more expensive than bringing that bike back to where it works well.

 

[hunterc4]

Berkeley,

Thanks for the advice. I'll bring it in to my local shop and have them tune everything up and see if anything needs to be replaced. I'll get them to throw some knobby tires on it as well.

 

[Berkeley Mike]

If you take it to a shop.

Give it a really good cleaning. The guys will appreciate it. This was a good entry level bike in its day and it should get you going.

That said, once you get into this you are going to want something more but be patient. You'd surprised at how much you can learn on this platform.