$200 did not get you a true trail worthy MTB 20 years ago. At least not new.
The reason people are suggesting $1k bikes is under the assumption that the person in question is going to ride regularly as an enthusiast.
If you are still running the same tires from 20 years ago and they have not worn down to the barest of threads 5 years ago, you are not riding it very often and there is no need for a $1k bike.
Last edited by Kapusta; 10-31-20 at 07:00 AM.