Hi-

I'm not too knowledgable on bikes and would like to buy my son a decent mountain bike for Christmas and dont have allot to work with.Maybe $200 tops.
I found this Trek 930 on Craigslist and wondered if you thought the price was fair and maybe could give opinions on things to look for when choosing a used bike.

Heres the listing features and the link.Thank you

1990's Trek 930 singletrack mountain bike in very good conditon.

Here are the specs:


Altus s10 brakes

Shimano Acera crank

Ox comp 2 double-butted frame.

17" metallic green frame

There are some Minor tears in seat, and the
front shifter cable needs a little work.

$135 firm. Cash only please.


http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/bik/1505043526.html

I have read the previous posting on the 930 but this looks like a different bike.
Thanks

What is your son going to do with it. That's a pretty old bike for the money. It looks clean but the drive train is several generations outdated and the frame will not take BMX style abuse. If he is going to ride it to school it might work OK. It would also be a good candidate for a single speed conversion. I would offer $75 to $100 top's.

Thanks for the reply.Very helpful.

After reading a few threads am I correct that the older models were better made than newer ones?

As far as what he'd probably use it for is I'm thinking we could some trail riding together and I'm sure just some casual street riding with his freinds'

Anything in particular to look for when checking this bike out?

Much appreciated.

Also seen a 1999 Trek 970 for sale for about the same price.
Can I get your opinions on which is a better bike for the money and why?

The 1999 may have front suspension, which will be better for trail riding. I looked at the 930 again and it has beach cruiser tires on it, not good for off road at all. Take a look at MTBR.com, they have great reviews posted by owners of older mountain bikes. I buy a lot of used parts and bikes and I use them all the time. Good luck.

Really appreciate you taking time to look and help me out sir.

I search the different models I've found on-line but am not to experienced on these and just know what I'm told or read.It's been a crash course.

No real knowledge about what's good or bad as far as quality is concerned.

Think I'll inquire on the 99 then.

Thanks again for sharing what you know.

That looks like a 1993 model. My housemate had one in college. He basicly rode it around town and to classes. No hard abuse. It's a nice bike really. I still ride my 1996 930 which still rides great. Those frames are all chromoly which is strong and more comfortable than aluminum. I'd grab that bike for the $135 if I was in the market.