JeanLucPicard

Hi,

I've been looking to get a better mountain bike than I have now. It's just a generic brand cheap but solid frame bike but very harsh and bouncy on tracks.

I'm looking for something used to save money.
I've come across a year 2000 Diamondback Topanga MBT Large 21" which is a aluminum frame.
It has been upgraded and has full Shimano Delore LX group set, cable disk brakes, carbon seat post, bar ends, marzocchi 04 MX comp Bomber alloy front shocks, near new mavic 317 disk wheels, and near new Michelin race.r tyres. I'm wondering if this bike is any good. The seller is looking for about $465 which if it is any good I'd try for $400.

I thought I'd ask what people think as I am still learning about what makes a mountain bike any good.

Thanks,

c_m_shooter

Should be an okay bike, but way too expensive. I would give $200 if it needs nothing, and odds are a 20 year old bike needs something.

dabac

The Bomber is a nice and not too heavy fork. Deore drivetrain work well despite its low bling value.
Mechanical discs aren’t a huge improvement compared to dry rim brakes, but means you have hydros within easy reach.
The CF seatpost will save you some grams, bu isn’t a big deal.

2cam16

Geez still on COVID prices. Way too much. OTOH, make sure you ask if the fork has been maintained well (i.e. seals replaced etc) .

JeanLucPicard

Thanks for the replies. I've attached photos as I can't find a similar looking model anywhere online. Could it be a higher end Topanga?



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I was also looking at a Giant XTC 2 2010. The seller wants about $650 USD (I'm in Australia)
Here is a link: https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/bentleigh/men-s-bicycles/mens-giant-xtc-2-racing-quality-mtb-accessories-read-all-ad-1st/1210202469

I am trying to still learn what makes a good mountain bike good. Is there a all in one guide online I can read about? At the moment I am figuring out if a bike is good by searching individual parts and checking out their reviews or if it's a new bike checking out it's new price/reviews.

Then there is the issue of covid prices. If I can't find anything that is fairly priced I'll just wait another year and continue to use my old cheapie bike for fun.
Thanks,

2cam16

Ahhh now you cleared it up a bit with your location. Then maybe that $400AUD price isn't too bad.

JeanLucPicard

Sorry that was $600 AUD and $400 USD after conversion...

prj71

Something newer than 20 years gold would be a good start.

2cam16

I take it back then and revert to my original: too much.

rumble b

go for a test ride, $400 if it fits

DMC707 

Price seems a little spicy, but the bike looks tobe in very nice shape .

have you made a decision on it yet?

Herzlos

It should provide a little bit of flex too so should be a bit more comfortable.

The bike looks like it's in great condition, it's just on an older frame (but you could move most of the parts onto a newer frame if you needed). I'd buy based on condition over anything else.