bikemig 

I think the MTBs from the 80s and 90s are the cat's pyjamas. They were--pre Covid--remarkably inexpensive and they're still a decent deal compared to road bikes of a similar age and quality. Most of them were never used off road which means that they tend to be in very good shape when you find them. They have excellent gearing. Throw on some BMX pedals and you can ride them with any shoes you own, wearing anything from blue jeans to lycra shorts.

In my opinion, they're the best all around vintage bike you can buy dollar for dollar. I also have a really hard time turning them down when they show up on the local craigslist at reasonable prices so I ended up with a small fleet. I own 4 and I'd fall off the wagon and buy a 5th if I ever find the right Cannondale, :

1993 Bridgestone MB 1

1992 Stumpjumper

1992 Trek 950

Late 80s Stumpjumper Comp