The development in the 90's was great for one reason, the US aerospace industry fell flat and companies went out of business wholesale. That left a massive glut of very powerful 4-5 axis CNC machines up for grabs at 1/10th the actual cost new. all of a sudden you had some guy in a 500 sq/ft building able to make some truly epic parts. the magazines, every month had pages of brand new parts. Also part of that aerospace collapse, the bottom fell out of pricing on titanium, 6061/7075 and cro moly, bikes in bunches were moving from basic steel to more exotics and it was mostly affordable the 90's was an awesome time to be riding. ON a side note, i would love to build up a mid 90's Salsa frame..
@davidj.jorgensen4828
2 жыл бұрын
Thx for the history update , I have 2 ti bikes. An Airboure Lucky Strike & Diamondback Axis DBR / Proflex (all carbon full suspension w/Girvin fork & an old ROSS Chrome steel all original (found 2 at pawn shop, they did not know what they had)😉🤙🏼
@ianskinner1619
2 жыл бұрын
@@davidj.jorgensen4828 yeah, I rode a nukeproof, both XC and DH, ( hard tail) the Ti ( 3/2.5) alloy was perfect, as I was also an inside linebacker at univ coming in at 240lbs, That alloy has the right level of spring and fatigue resistance as it's been carrying me these last 25 years. But now I just baby it, last thing I want to do is demo a Ritchie brake level or screw up 94' XTR components.. they are so damn pretty.. and I think that might be one reason why the 90's was so amazing; the parts weren't just pumped out of a CNC from CAD, there was so much artistic nuance in every item made, every company had ' their ' design language. I have yet to see a seat that looks' better then my original Bontrager cut wing seat, even in more modern versions of the seat.. just no soul..
@dyzoly
2 жыл бұрын
good point!
@robertmcfadyen9156
Жыл бұрын
CNC didn't really get useful until about 1986 .
@andycormier2475
2 жыл бұрын
I still ride a 1995 GT Zaskar. I upgraded the front end, and I get TONS of love from other riders out here on the trail. Also a HUGE FAN of Kona & Richey 90’s bikes. Such beautiful lines!
@nathanialharris3300
2 жыл бұрын
I just bought a '97(?). It's definitely been well used, but other than cosmetics it's in good shape. Not sure if the seat is horrible or if it's me. Regardless I'm looking forward to riding a fair bit this summer.
@JeffDavis771
9 күн бұрын
12 years ago I bought a 97' GF Tassajara in perfect condition for $75 for your #1 reason... nostalgia, a Gary Fisher was all I wanted in the 90's. I restored that bike, added racks, and still today use it for getting around the neighborhood, quick kid rides, small errands, you name it. Been thinking lately of making it a trail bike, it might be time. lol
@BluecollarBackcountry
2 жыл бұрын
Overbiked is the perfect phrase for so many cyclists. I think the reality for most average cyclists riding ultra expensive bikes is bragging rights. ✌ Don't be offended if you have one, they are nice🤓
@JimboJ66
2 жыл бұрын
All the gear and no idea as we used to say
@bugpack6
2 жыл бұрын
It’s not Bragging rights for me. Don’t care about that. I just like a really well made bike and appreciate high end components. Makes it more enjoyable to ride for me. When you moving fast and the shifts are not even noticeable is fantastic. XTR all the way!
@7thkansascav468
2 жыл бұрын
I probably fall in that category by your reckoning except it's not bragging rights, it's more nostalgia and an appreciation of craftsmanship. I like higher end vintage steel bikes, road and mountain. I'm a regular "sloth" when I ride, slow and steady by most standards. I get there when I get there but I can appreciate the better performance of a higher end vintage bike even if I'm not physically capable at 67 years of age to make full use of it and thanks to "Freds" like me a lot of these bikes are getting saved that would have otherwise gone to the shredder.
@7thkansascav468
2 жыл бұрын
@RollinRat In the words of my generation "fuckin' A"! 😎
@7thkansascav468
2 жыл бұрын
@RollinRat Wow, yes I've heard of him, you scored BIG time indeed!
@monkist
2 жыл бұрын
I think for guys like us who started riding in the 90s, there is nothing else. We would always return to them - if not stuck with them forever. 90s mountain bikes all the way, no matter what others might say.
@StaggerLee68
2 жыл бұрын
Still finding them and adding them to my stable. I've an Explossiff that is still fantastic. My latest barn score: 2000' homegrown in great shape, dirt cheap in BFE, Oklahoma out on a job. I told them I needed to give them 2x what they were asking, at least. They declined and were just stoked I knew exactly what it was and love them. They were frantically moving from Oklahoma to (as the wife loudly declared..) ANYWHERE. haha. They didn't have time to properly sell it, they wanted desperately to get out of this state pronto and were just happy it would not end up as some crack heads transportation. Saved a Homegrown beauty. Keep up the good work.
@lchav420
2 жыл бұрын
I definitely didn’t grow up in the 90s, but for some reason they just speak to me. I could’ve easily built a more modern frame up, but the giant steal iguana I got, just feels irreplaceable to me.
@StaggerLee68
2 жыл бұрын
@@lchav420 There's the love! Enjoy it, man.
@monkist
2 жыл бұрын
@Jiggity Jake oh yes! Would be stoked to see some 80s BMXes rebuilt on the channel!!!
@monkist
2 жыл бұрын
@@lchav420 I think that’s one of the main things about 90’s MTBs: they have a quality like no other. Although mass production began in the 90s, those bikes were still closer to the original ideas their makers had in mind (Ritchey, Breeze, Murray, Chance, Bradbury etc.) Each and every model has a value in there, whether just aesthetic or sentimental, they are one of a kind. Owning one is owning a piece of MTB history.
@dima.s
2 жыл бұрын
I've been watching your videos for a year and it motivates me a lot. I recently restored an old Diamondback mountain bike. It is equipped with Shimano Alivio. I use this bike for everyday rides in my area. The cost of the bike including spare parts was 20 euros. I got a new chain and renewed the ball bearings in the bottom bracket. But it's still fun to ride a bike from the 90's. Thank you for your videos and greetings from Bavaria.
@tonyanderson8014
2 жыл бұрын
Really appreciate your videos. Agree with all of your points on why to buy 90's bikes. One to add is it is therapeutic for the soul. Rebuilding my bikes again and again is my happy place. Recently painted my old Cannondale with Spray-Bike paint on your recommendation. Amazing result and so satisfying. Thanks for all you do.
@delux68
2 жыл бұрын
I love 90s mbts and I'm happy to see them getting reimagined. I started buying them because they're cheap, and kept buy them because they are so versatile. One of my favorites is my 1990-ish Klein Pinnacle, it's done everything I've asked it.
@gregorymckoy3179
2 жыл бұрын
I bought a 1999 Specialized FSR Sport last year that the previous owner had the local bike shop service and install new tires with new tubes. I have changed the handle bars with PNW Gen 3, new grips, 50mm x 30 degree rise stem, new seat and special mount for adjusting the water bottle cage under the seat. I replaced the middle front chain ring with a new aluminum one and the bike shifts and rides like new! I have a full suspension bike for considerably less than I would have paid new! The original Manitou Spyder front forks and Rock Shoxs Vanilla rear coil shock have been holding up well. I plan to replace the front fork with a Rock Shoxs Recon and Exaform 588RL on the rear when they start sagging.
@jimbo4203
2 жыл бұрын
I bought my first real mtb a 93 GT timberline with the bullhorn bars , it was awesome . I rode that bike for 10 years and gave it to my brother
@morphius7777
2 жыл бұрын
It's a blessing that we have the power to decide what we like and don't like. Personally, I'm a huge fan of the '90 bikes not just for nostalgia but for affordability. For the cost of one new bike, I can have three or four '90 bikes, plus the parts to maintain them well.
@nickmassey9104
2 жыл бұрын
Rob this was like listening to a proffesor who lioved his subject in an auditorium 👍 I agree with you I own 2 90s mtbs and 2 80s ones and they are like a loyal mongrel dog 🐕
@1joshjosh1
10 күн бұрын
I got myself in 1993 norco bigfoot at a garage sale $10 and it rides so nice and the brakes work so nice and it's so simple I really like it and I'm just gonna ride it.
@_film_flashback
Жыл бұрын
I'm so glad you said finding a serviceable 90's bike for less than $100 + $100 in service to it was a good deal. I just got a 1999 Mongoose MGX D50 for $25 and I'm about to spend $80 on service + parts at a LBS.
@Magoo71
2 жыл бұрын
I have two 26" wheel race bikes that I raced in the late 80's and early 90's.... they weigh about 22 lbs and have full travel suspension...Chris King and all the stuff....yet I just bought my first new bike in 25 years ....this has batteries!!! Yes!
@interceptor7905
2 жыл бұрын
I agree with you OldShovel!Prices now are insane,all about profit margins!
@cstaff4773
2 жыл бұрын
I got a 1993 Gt zaskar it may be 20 years older than me but it’s so easy to fix find parts and it a dream to ride. Love the videos keep it up
@VailSkateSupply1
2 жыл бұрын
I have a Gary Fisher from’96. Triple butted chromoly rides amazing.
@matejkopcik9563
2 жыл бұрын
Oh, in the beggining you missed the opporunity of saying: Today I'm gonna be doing something a little bit different..... but kinda the same
@chadquadhamer5577
2 жыл бұрын
Awesome! This coming on the first day I put my 91 Antelope back on the trail after being rebuilt. I was blown away with the capability it has. What a climber! Want a challenge, try a rigid Hardtail. How about doing a 90's only ride/challenge similar to the klunker ride?
@furlonggg1
2 жыл бұрын
the search for bikes and gear IS a hobby in itself. the thrill of the hunt baby!
@sihilius
10 күн бұрын
I prefer riding, thanks.
@johnhickman2033
2 жыл бұрын
I agree completely with everything you've stated here on your post; 90s MTBs do it all. No need for soulless and overpriced carbon equivalents at all. I'll stick with my 1997 Yo Eddy as it does everything I ask of it, which is just about to ride it everywhere and anywhere!
@ADVtheMISSIONARY
2 жыл бұрын
I am so happy that 80's and 90's MTBs are largely worthless here in Tasmania :D, I recently picked up a 1991 Repco MT3 for $20 and that's about all it's worth.
@freedomwon2004
2 жыл бұрын
Score! I stopped at my local thrift shop and bought a Gary Fisher Big Sur mtb for $25. It needs ❤ like new tires and tubes. But it shifts pretty good and the brakes work. It could use new brake shoes. 👍
@650gringo
5 ай бұрын
I bought a new rigid mountain bike around 1990. Later my buddy wanted me to get a suspension fork, like he had. I said, "No, my elbows and knees are all the suspension I need." To which my buddy replied, "Well however much suspension you have with your elbows I have 2 inches more."
@chuffa1130
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing, I've been refurbishing old '90s mountain bikes primarily Gary Fisher's chromoly frames or Cannondale aluminum frames turning them into incredible city bikes or commuters easy to work on and they're just so darn good thanks
@davidc6032
2 жыл бұрын
Those Joe Murray Konas are, to this day, just about the best looking mtb ever. Had a mid 90's Kona Hot with the fluted downtube and it not only looked amazing, but rode like a dream.
@OriginalGabriel
2 жыл бұрын
8:40 at my last job, some of us had a morning ride we'd do on Sundays, since we opened later. We all had "gravel bikes" in one form or another (bunch of Salsa's, and a bunch of drop bar 90's mountain bike conversions). One ride in particular stands out to me. At one point in the ride, sludging through the mud due to a recent storm, another passing cyclist called out from the paved portion "what are you doing there on road bikes?" Later in the ride, while crossing a "flooded" portion of the trail, a cyclist asked "what are you doing?", and one of their ride buddies said "they're on mountain bikes". In less than an hour, our bikes were called both "road bikes", and "mountain bikes"; when they were just "bikes" we made to our riding style.
@oldshovel
2 жыл бұрын
Perfect and true. Bikes through and through.
@Romanonissimo
2 жыл бұрын
Most people need to name things, prefrontal cortex overriding simple heart thinking
@davedelarosa319
2 жыл бұрын
Same as I committed on Russ' channel, I bypassed buying 90's bikes now by buying mine then. I bought new a Raleigh M40 that I still have, a Bianchi Lynx that I picked up 2nd hand in '99, and a Gary Fisher Aquila for a pittance right before the world went sideways. I ended up flipping the GF for considerably more than I had invested and traded the too small Bianchi to my neighbor for a Cannondale Caad2 F900 that has a buttery smooth Headshok. The Raleigh is now a drop bar with Micronew brifters and period correct semislicks and the C'dale has cruiser tires and upright city bars for putting around on.
@kevinfeeney5309
2 жыл бұрын
Woohoo...another MicroNEW user. I have them on three bikes. Love them.
@davedelarosa319
2 жыл бұрын
@@kevinfeeney5309 I have the R7/L3 moving a Tourney rear/Alivio front and other than some fussiness on the front rings they've worked a charm. Doesn't hurt that I'm also running knock off Travel Agents on the V-brakes which have honestly impressed me as well.
@kevinfeeney5309
2 жыл бұрын
@@davedelarosa319 I'm running the 3L/9R on the Nishiki monster cross build...old roadie FD and Deore RD-M591. 2L/8R on my '76 mixte..... old roadie FD and Acera RD. 3L/7R on a Diamondback Lakeside hybrid. Don't remember the FD but it's an Altus RD. All shift fine. Running cantilever brakes on the Nishiki and DBK. Old Dia-Compe center pulls on the mixte.
@davedelarosa319
2 жыл бұрын
@@kevinfeeney5309 I haven't found an issue with them other than "borrowing" from other's design work. I don't have that many miles on them yet, but I don't really anticipate any issues that can't be rectified by swapping them out.
@adrn015
2 жыл бұрын
russ just doesnt live the " give old things new life" motto and its pathetic. cycling is literally on the word recycling.
@LuckyTown77
2 жыл бұрын
My '96 Mongoose is still doing well, and my Giant, and I rode my Sekai folding bike today...etc
@leftoverporkchop9972
10 ай бұрын
Had a Trek 970, a Schwinn High Sierra, and a Cannondale F700. All great bikes. The cannondale had the infamous "head shock" and was a little lighter with the aluminum frame. The Trek had the best components, and those amazingly boring biopace rings. They all did everything i asked them to.
@jasonjavelin
2 жыл бұрын
Love the talking vid! This is one of the first channels I watched for any 90s mtb stuff after being given my first mtb which was a 95 Gary Fisher Big Sur which I updated on the cheap. I was given a Raleigh MT500 Mountain recently and am trying to figure out what to do with it!
@TheWeardale1
2 жыл бұрын
nostalgia isn't what it used to be... that said, my first real mtb was a '91 trek 950, 18 inch white frame and loved it!
@SERGUMUM
2 жыл бұрын
I do light cycling every now and then, my passion started in the early 1990’s and it is like frozen. I just like vintage mtb from late 1980’s to 1990’s. And steel cromoly frames. I own a Scott Comp Racing ( Ritchey inspired), and recently I purchased a Kona hahanna and I love both. The Kona is more versatile as the Scott is quite racing geometry. And I may buy another ones such as a Ritchey, Kona Explosive. So great value you may getgood frames and components for around 250-600 Euro. Even you can turn them into reliable electric bikes. Another thing is that 1990’s was a pinnacle in myb development and quality. Great Quality. As said about 1990’s Toyotas!.
@BruceChastain
2 жыл бұрын
I would think 90s mountain bikes gotta be cheaper to service both at home and at a shop. No hydraulic breaks, no air forks, no tubeless, no 12 speeds, and of course no internal cable routing.
@kevinfeeney5309
2 жыл бұрын
Yup. I only bought a few specialized tools and didn't break the bank.
@kevinfeeney5309
2 жыл бұрын
I only went to LBs for truing, re-dishing and re-spacing the rear wheel. (Still learning and practicing how to do all that). But I did just about everything else. My dirt drop bar conversion would have cost a ton more (and wouldn't have been justifiable, in my opinion) if I had the bike shop do it all.
@JC-pb4db
4 ай бұрын
$80 seems to be the going rate in my area….regardless of age. When you have multiple kids, that outgrow their bike each year…a few tools and a stand become quite the bargain. Used bikes are a great deal.
@2defff
2 жыл бұрын
nice video man, do you have any thoughts on the 2021 Marin Lakspur? Its a cromo mixte city bike with mtb geometry and disc brakes all under $1000... I ordered it and i'd like to see your thoughts on it since its a really good deal for its price.
@kevinfeeney5309
2 жыл бұрын
Guess I'm one of those "gatekeepers" Russ referred to on his video regarding the Larkspur. I don't find it meets the criteria to be a mixte... the twin lateral tubes that start at the top of the headtube and end at the dropouts.... but I do like that bike... along with the other bike he reviewed, the Soma Buena Vista. I actually have a mixte from 1976, a KHS Gran Sport. I've updated it to.compact road cranks, microshift cs-h081 Advent cassette, wolf tooth roadlink, Acera RD, MicroNEW 2x8 brifters and modern 31.8 ergo drop bars. Love it but with all the racks it weighs 40 pounds... since it's my cargo hauling/errand bike I guess I shouldn't mind the weight as it would be a theft deterrent, but I'd like to try the more modern Soma Buena Vista.
@2defff
2 жыл бұрын
@@kevinfeeney5309 I know its not a pure bred mixte but how else are you supposed to describe the frame? I just wanted the man's opinion on it I wasn't trying to get into the specifics of a word
@jimbrovont7014
2 жыл бұрын
I still own and ride my 1992 Bridgestone MB-4 that I bought new. I've updated it to 8 speed XTR Shifting and V-Brakes, and also installed a wider handlebar. I miss having my Rock Shox Mag-21 on it, but when that finally became non-rebuildable I was glad that I had never thrown out the original steel fork. The double and triple butted cro moly steel frames that many of these great 90's mountain bikes had is just so durable, comfortable, and responsive to ride.
@bradsanders6954
2 жыл бұрын
I still have my 1990 MASI roadbike,and will ride it some. Its been updated with new Shimano but is still 9 speed. .the paint looks like new from 1990,they knew how to paint at MASI.
@bradsanders6954
2 жыл бұрын
Nothing like a solid frame and fork to really give that plush feel. Zero travel is the best travel.
@RunnerTK
9 ай бұрын
I still love my ´94 Breezer Lightning!
@heyg7819
2 жыл бұрын
I just fixed up a 90's USA-made Trek MountainTrack that my neighbor was throwing away, the bike was in excellent shape but still needed $165 in basic parts that I purchased from Performance Bike and eBay, a LBS would charge you $300+ for these repairs on top of the purchase price. List of items: stem adapter, new brake pads, grips, cables, pedals, chain, brake noodle, brake rubber boots, Kenda tires, and continental tubes. Don't buy cheap no-name tires! This doesn't include a Giant stem, handlebars, and cable housing I had lying around. If you have an REI around they will sell you cables and housing for the best price I have found. The rims were in decent shape but could use truing, $30 at my LBS, just something I'm not comfortable with. I would make sure the bike has decent rims because this would be a deal-breaker if you need to purchase new ones, rim brakes do degrade them over time, and stay away if they have a freewheel. I didn't touch the BB or the front derailleur because they were in working order and front derailleurs are such a PIA, for another $100 I could have upgraded the cranks and cassette to a 1X but the purpose of this bike is a neighborhood cruiser for a 14-year-old. It's a solid bike now and should last as long as he maintains it, I have seen his other bikes! I'm selling/giving the bike to a friend for the cost of parts and beer. The alternative is buying a new entry-level fitness bike/hardtail for $650 that comes with modern geo, 29er's, and mechanical disc brakes which are far superior and easier to maintain than rim brakes. I personally would stay away from the entry-level bikes with cheap suspension forks and avoid Walmart bikes altogether. I purchased a 2017 Giant ATX Lite for my daughter, the rigid fork is the why they call it "lite", and I paid $500 for it new.
@joelungaidon
2 жыл бұрын
Aaaaaaayyyyyyyyyy Gary's project did a response video too over his channel, worth checking out
@cesarali8001
Жыл бұрын
I really love the idea of making a gravel from a 90 mtb
@wittmannmichael777
2 жыл бұрын
I started riding a few years ago at the age of 22 so I missed riding back I the day. But I 100% agree there's something about riding 90s bikes that just brings me joy I love my 90s voodoo hoodoo It has been upgraded a tad with disk brakes and a rockshock fork 1x 10 drivetrain It rocks
@JeraCravoMyself
2 жыл бұрын
I have my 94 Trek 7000 for 10 years now and I love it! I'll never sell it!
@RepresentWV
2 жыл бұрын
The 90s MTB frames always look so slim and sexy, whereas modern bikes look much chunkier even when they’re steel. The slim ones look great and I’m sure they’re strong too so why are modern frames so thick?
@theshonen8899
2 жыл бұрын
You and PathLessPedaled are some of my favorite bike channels! I love that you guys are so chill and fun, it's a great escape from the expensive, pretentious nature of the sport.
@ECsponger2
Жыл бұрын
Met him out in Tucson a few years ago. Didn't know who he was then. Did a few brewery rides together and bought some art from him.
@Tanstaafl1976
Жыл бұрын
Here are my 2 90s mtbs. I love riding them, and I ride them over my 2007 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp (the last mtb I purchased): 1) 1997 Specialized Stumpjumper Comp M2 with a RockShox Judy SL with XT/LX; 2) 1998 Specialized Stumpjumper S-Works M2 with a Manitou SX TI and XTR/XT. Gravel, mtb'ing, bikepacking, touring, beach cruising ... what else do you need or want?
@seraphan6
2 жыл бұрын
About price: you may have heard this already, but you’re in a very sweet spot for finding good bikes at a good price. There aren’t many places on this planet with the same concentration of 90s mountain bikes looking for a new owner. I’m jealous.
@lilbtyt7928
2 жыл бұрын
Have to agree. I can found decent bikes most times from 50-600 for 90s mountain bikes. Some just have more rust or are missing tubes or tires but like he said spending another 100 on parts. But like you said living in a spot with plenty of bikes and parts. I’m in Sonoma which is next to Marin where mountain biking started.
@matthewjohansalonga371
2 жыл бұрын
I have a 90's custom built mountain bike, and it really pulls some of my heart strings seeing the bike sitting for years then seeing it running again. Love your restoration and your videos thank you for making me love vintage mountain bikes :)
@mikiyosangyo1627
2 жыл бұрын
8:38 Totally on point! When I observe some riders, I can spot the overkill in every single aspect of the whole set up, biker look included. Some set-ups turn out into pretty much a ridiculous spectacle.
@RustyX2010
Жыл бұрын
cause money is no object bro! lol
@blue3549
2 жыл бұрын
Agree on nostalgia 💯
@aliastagami2346
2 жыл бұрын
I'm surprised you didn't bring up metallurgy. You can get a 90s MTB with a fully butted main triangle in True Temper OX or high end Reynolds. Modern steel gravel bikes might also have nice tubing, but you'll pay a lot for it, so most will be 4130 Cr-Mo and maybe the top tube is butted.
@percivalhowell7516
2 жыл бұрын
I have a Reynolds 853 tube set from '96. Very supple and durable...
@Spindatt
2 жыл бұрын
I pretty much just enjoy avoiding all of the really nostalgic bikes. Find something that has the "shape" you like, that doesn't have the "collectors" tax because of the brand or model.. AND THEN BUILD SOMETHING SO FUN!!!!
@oldshovel
2 жыл бұрын
Lol collectors tax. Perfect. I totally agree.
@sirbarryvee-eight6485
2 жыл бұрын
Back in the 90s I was riding the trails where I live now on, strangely enough, a 90s bike with 100mm travel at each end, 3 x 8sp XT and 26 x 2.1" tyres. I'd jump off every little lip, ledge and log, I'd bomb downhill as fast as I could and I had a ball. Fast forward to 2022 and I'm riding a carbon weapon with with 150mm travel at each end, 1 x 11sp X0 and 27.5 x 2.4" tyres. I am still riding the same trails and still jump off every little lip, ledge and log, and bomb downhill as fast as I can and I have a ball. Am I faster on the modern bike? Maybe a little, but I'm not racing and I don't massage my ego with Strava. Am I having fun on the modern bike? Yep. Do I love my modern bike? Yep. Do I still ride my 90s bikes and have as much fun? Hell yeah.
@skoggiehoggins1445
2 жыл бұрын
Hell yeah!!
@clintcollins7366
2 жыл бұрын
This is an interesting topic as someone who was big into mountain biking in the 90’s and early 2000’s. I just recently bought a new(er) mountain bike and started riding again. I previously had a custom built 98 Specialized Stumpjumper Hardtail frame I loaded with all top of the line parts and kept upgrading as time went on. It weighed 19 pounds. It was what I considered perfect. I also had a Cannondale Jekyll and a Santa Cruz Superlight also spec’d out very well, but I preferred my hard tail. I recently got a 2019 Intense Sniper Trail Elite and started riding again. I have to say bikes have come a LONG way since “back in the day”. The geometry of today’s bikes are sheer black magic. How does one even climb on a bike with only a 50mm stem on it? Just stop it! Rough terrain? Early 90’s forks had foam marshmallows in them for crying out load (elastomers I believe they were called). This new bike I have is an absolute dream comparatively. Dropper posts?! I had no idea wtf that was. I had to Google it. They’re amazing! Back when, if you thought you were clever, you’d just have a quick release on your seat post clamp and have to unf-k it all down on flat ground. Bar ends? Thought I’d miss them but you don’t need them on todays bikes. Itty bitty sprocket up front with hubcap sized cassette in back? Who woulda thought? It’s marvelous -and works! I don’t know that shifting is any different but I dig it. The Time ATAC pedal? It is good to see that you can’t mess with perfection though You can have all those old bikes. I sold mine for pennies on the dollar years ago. As someone who was there and experienced the 90’s/00’s as an adult, I’d take the bikes of today hands down, or at least the one I got. It’s more bike than anything I’d ever ridden going up or down. It’s a great time to be in to bikes now, Just saying. The more I’m seeing the more my antiquated mind bends. This isn’t a bash on the old. I’m old. The bikes of the early to mid 90’s were atrocious compared to the bike I had in 05. It’s the lessons learned in the industry and those torches being passed that I can really see a huge difference with today. I wish I had more mileage on my body because this sport didn’t slow down. It doesn’t appear to be any time soon. Vintage is cool in a lot of ways, but performance is the key. Faster, harder, scarier…yes, please. **In all fairness, I don’t know if it’s just this bike I got or the way things are these days, but I do miss remote lockouts up on the bars. I find it a huge step backwards to be fumble-f-king under the frame for the lockout lever while trying to get geared for a climb. Cable lockout, not electronic! Electronic components do not belong on a bicycle. It’s an abomination!!
@Tequila628
2 жыл бұрын
Agree with you. Old geo just isn't fun. Congratulations on that Spider!
@axiomic
2 жыл бұрын
And then... emtbs.. "The best thing since.. mtbs" - Rob Warner
@davecech4741
2 жыл бұрын
Now well into my 50's, there no going back for me either. My Epic Evo (similar to your Sniper) is efficient, comfortable and capable. It has a threaded BB that I can easily service. No front derailleur hassle (the triple on my old mountain bike was a constant challenge). I have learned a lot by riding this bike. Wide tires & rims are fast and comfortable. I use the dropper much more often than I ever expected I would, and I am so smitten I put one on my 29'er hardtail (which I primarily use for gravel now). Bike weight doesn't matter very much (but losing weight off my fat butt does, not that this is a revelation). The beefier fork, rear suspension, wide bars, shorter stem, dropper and slacker geometry works really well for general XC riding and allows you to have a lot more fun (and get less beat-up) descending, particularly when it gets fast, rough or technical. I raced the Sea Otter "Fuego" 80K a few weeks ago and pre-rode a lap of the course on my 29'er hardtail and then again on the Evo. Even though the course had a LOT of gravel and climbing, I wound up racing the Evo. Why? Because it just soaks up the rough stuff and helps you to preserve your energy for pedaling. I am also convinced that my last major crash (over the bars) would have not happened if I was on the Evo instead of a hardtail. I can appreciate people wanting to experience the "purity" of riding an old bike that is in good operating condition, but I am DONE. My old M4 Stumpy HT was slow in comparison and brutal to ride more than 3 hours. I gave it to a friend before I moved last year and said good riddance.
@clintcollins7366
2 жыл бұрын
@@davecech4741 100%! It’s not that the old bikes didn’t do the job, but that was then. These modern bikes are just capable of more. I’m riding the same trails but with a much different experience (than I remember). I turn 50 in June. I’m probably writing some checks my body won’t be able to cash if I wad it up, but I’m having a blast getting back in to it all over again. I blame Peloton for reopening this can of worms! Cheers! Keep after it! @axiomic lol, it’s about the purity of the fight! Once you start adding all the E to make your job easier you might as well get a dirt bike 😒
@bustatron
2 жыл бұрын
That's funny, I was in almost the same boat. Rode a metric ton in the 94-99' Era and started back up during the pandemic. All this new shit blew my mind... Droppers, big wheels... But the two biggest things about new stuff is the BREAKS and sitting upright. Good God, you can just STOP. No more praying that your centerpull v breaks will hook up! And being able to ride for hours because your back doesn't get sore hunched over the 130mm stem w/ totally straight bar?
@jonmopar7917
2 жыл бұрын
This is why I own like a dozen vintage mountain bikes. I’ve had everything from every era, and nothing has the feel and emotion like the 90s stuff
@klunker289
2 жыл бұрын
It's got soul
@bradsanders6954
2 жыл бұрын
Its mostly mental. Rose colored glasses,these old bikes are cool but heavy, newer tech blows them in the weeds......rigid frames beat a body to death.
@harryballsacky
2 жыл бұрын
@@bradsanders6954 ONLY IF YOUR A CANDY@SS
@alexrivera3113
2 жыл бұрын
I restored a 1993 Kona Hot. I'm wondering if you have restored any kona bikes?
@bradsanders6954
2 жыл бұрын
@@alexrivera3113 I have a 1990 KONA humhumuapuaaa single speed since 2007...........great town bike.
@cesarabrego684
2 жыл бұрын
"I typically fix my own bike" For some reason I completely believe you. One of the best Old Shovel videos, by the way.
@lukaszp.3134
2 жыл бұрын
I've been starting with MTB from the beginning of 90s. I had 4 MTBs. The last from nineties is my GT Teguesta '98 bought in March 2000. Last week I bought new bike - Cube Attention SL (Germany design). It is much different philosophy of designing shapes, angles. 29 inch, better Rock Shox fork. But to tell the truth I'm not sure that this new bike is better. The same masses! 13,2kg. Differenced are huge, but my GT Cro-Mo gives my 2000 tons of nostalgia, childhood, memories... Cheers from Poland.
@lukaszp.3134
2 жыл бұрын
26x2,2 vs. 29x2,25, Cro-Mo frame vs. Alloy frame, Rock Shox Indy C (60mm spring+elastomer) vs. Rock Shox Judy (100mm air spring), 3x8 STX RC vs. 1x12 Deore XT, V-Brakes LX vs. Hydraulic Brakes MT200. A lot of people say - the new - the better, but in my opinion it is not the truth. Old bikes in good condition give a lot of fun, pleasure. New bike - also, but it is made in some "different" way. If better? I'm not sure...
@abandoneduniverses
2 жыл бұрын
Iam riding since 1984 and bought a 1986 Berma Padova from Poland..restored now 100% ..send me everyday back to my teen era...cheers to Poland
@oo0024
2 жыл бұрын
I’ve been buying retro mountain bikes since 2016 I’ve been collecting them I’ve rode them and from my honest opinion…. 4130 cromoly frames are absolutely ridiculous they last for 20 years take a massive beating I even threw a 1996 trek of a building once 🤭the frame didn’t even get a dent
@rise_above2343
2 жыл бұрын
Love my 90s Klein...way ahead of it's time. Always wanted one back when I was 16 and used to see them on the cover of MTB UK, but obviously couldn't afford one back then. Now I have one, it holds a lot of nostalgia and memories. They have amazing innovation, and in my opinion, the best paint of any bike past and present.
@adammoonface
2 жыл бұрын
I genuinely have been having more fun on my 99' Orange Clockwork than my 2016 Canyon Spectral so far this year. 1x9, v-brakes and modern Nobby nic's, it absolutely rips 👌
@peterfreidel7721
2 жыл бұрын
I have a Gary Fisher mountain bike from about 2000 that I still ride, and enjoy. I am 69 years old. I no longer enjoy riding road bikes, because of a back issue.
@denseljosephs9500
2 жыл бұрын
I have three 90s bikes 2 trek's and a giant full suspension. I'm now disabled following 3 bouts of neurosurgery so the giant and the trek will be having mid drive electric motors installed. I'm not interested in new bikes they've got no soul. Love the channel.
@Aubreykun
2 жыл бұрын
Hearing your thoughts on what you work on is always appreciated. You always have such a polite way of delivering your perspective which isn't common on youtube, and I hope you make more videos like this.
@jaimegomezgarcia7599
2 жыл бұрын
Some time ago I came back from an injury, which prevented me from cycling. What was my first choice to get back on a bike? My first MTB, without any kind of suspension. Nostalgia, you call it very well. 90's bikes are all-purpose bikes. They are not as specific as today's bikes. And you can upgrade them to make them better than they already are.
@adamb724
2 жыл бұрын
I always felt alienated and uncomfortable on 90's mountain bikes with my height at 6'5". Best thing that ever happened to mountain bikes was 29ers.
@bradsanders6954
2 жыл бұрын
The thing back then was bars lower than seat by a good long ways....like roadracing except you gotta ride it off cliffs at times so your set to eject easily.......I never liked it.......My new Intense with the relaxed geometry and slack seat tube my weight is already more rearwards, and the bars are about level with seat........then the dropper post and voilah, you're not in an ejection seat anymore on a drop.........29" wheels roll SO much better over rocks..........its a whole different world from an old clanging hard tail rigid fork ride bruising the lower spine........Ive stuck with full suspension ever since it was introduced.......just like all my dirtbikes except they have 12" travel that REALLY works.
@wileecoyoti
2 жыл бұрын
Smaller and lighter is more fun. Maybe not as fast as big wheels and advanced suspensions, but 99.98% of us are just here for fun anyway.
@PathLessPedaledTV
2 жыл бұрын
Great list!
@oldshovel
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Russ. The challenge is on for tonight 😁🙌
@kevinfeeney5309
2 жыл бұрын
@@oldshovel like I said in my own comment... i weirdly agree with both of you guys. It just depends on what's available in your area or if you're willing to pony up the dough to pay for shipping or even travel yourself. The Nishiki I did a dirt drop bar conversion on I sourced locally for $40, and only drove about 30 minutes round trip. The DBK Axis I got from my local bike shop who sells used bikes (and parts) as well as new stuff. Don't recall how much I paid for it though, wasn't more than $100 for a complete bike. Rode it awhile before I updated to threadless suspension fork and v-brakes.
@devononair
2 жыл бұрын
Inspired by oldshovel, I just sprayed and built a 90s Merlin out of lots of spare parts I had. Total cost was less than £100 (although, granted, I already owned most of the parts :) )
@nickkent7164
2 жыл бұрын
Couldn't agree with you more. Every comment resonates. My 1997 Kilauea is the bike I regret letting go the most..... Have a 1998 Explosif now running as a gravel bike using Surly forks with disc mounts.
@ДенисГриценко-з1я
2 жыл бұрын
А задний тормоз тоже дисковый?
@BanjoLuke1
2 жыл бұрын
This is HIGHLY CLASSIFIED information. It MUST NOT be made available to the general public. This sort of thing, if watched by the undeserving, will result in a grave shortage of steel hardtails on 26" rims. To the idly curious, a message: Do not believe this hokum. Always buy the latest stuff..... Old Konas, old GTs, old Treks are junk. Get something with hydraulic discs, a swoopy carbon frame and 27.5" wheels.... Really..... You wouldn't like these older bikes. Please.... Believe me.... Please.
@oldshovel
2 жыл бұрын
🙌🙌🙌🤣🤣🤣 I was totally thinking this, I was going over my local classifieds and found so many awesome deals I was afraid ego show them, if did not show the ones I found under $50 cuz a few were too good to share, I need to make some phone calls.
@toastyrides
2 жыл бұрын
Such a great response to Russ’ video 🙌 +1 for 90’s MTB’s. My ‘99 Hardrock is so very special to me now. It’s been built up as a comfy commuter and now it’s a disc brake rigid mtb/commute thing. Disc converted, dropper post, $20 but nice riding Chromoly frame 🙌
@wpmccray1
2 жыл бұрын
Wonderful video; I started riding c. 1988 but the 1990s were my prime years (young, lots of free time, and living in Tucson). 1990 = Specialized Rockhopper with parts upgraded to Deore XT 1992 = Gary Fisher Supercaliber (was seduced by the Suntour parts but it was too harsh of a ride; no suspension fork...broke the derailer hanger and Fisher replaced the frame with a 1994 = Gary Fisher Montare; still have this for grocery store runs. Added a Judy fork and XT parts on it c. 1995 1999 = used Dean Colonel from eBay. First titanium bike for me. Still have this one too. XTR parts with a Rock Shox superlight fork. Fun to ride; superlight and a little twitchy/scary. Would love to refurbish this with a rigid fork and old-school XT shifters to replace the Grip Shifts :( Today, the quiver I use for rides is very different but my go-to much of the time is a Niner SIR 9.
@PAExploration
2 жыл бұрын
I started riding in the 90s, so maybe I’m a bit biased, but the mountain bikes from the 90s are special in a way I can’t really explain. The early FSRs, Ravens, 4 Bangers, and other full suspension dream bikes are still my dream bikes. The hardtails from that era just have a different feel to them as well. Each company had something different; a unique identity, and their bikes reflected that. It seems like everything is so generic and cookie cutter now, most full suspension bikes look the same to me - they’re good at what they do, but so bland, the soul and identity is gone. I still have bike magazines from the 90s, and they’re different too, compared to today. Look through a 90s bike magazine or ride a bike from that era and do the same with a current bike and magazine; we lost something along the way, even if some might say it was just our rose colored glasses.
@Lars3
2 жыл бұрын
My dad still has his Raven with full XTR and I borrow it from him at least a few times a year. It is such a fun bike to ride, I want to ride it more but I'm terrified of destroying the frame. I just can't trust 25+ year old carbon fiber.
@mikedapipeboss396
8 ай бұрын
I have a Haro 26" wheel/17.5 " frame mountain bike. I bought it brand new back in 2000. I actually find myself riding more often than my new mountain bike I picked up last year. I just find the old one more versatile to all the different trails and even roads I ride on. I love it and she's 24 years old this year!!
@roberthuffmann8204
2 жыл бұрын
My first mtb was a Kona Explosif. I bought it when I was 19, in 1994. I really miss that bike.
@thomasandrews8033
7 ай бұрын
I don't ride 90's mountain bikes anymore but I did start on them. Love seeing them on the trails and if the opportunity is right, make sure to tell the rider what an awesome bike they have.
@Raleighthechocolatelab
2 жыл бұрын
Great video. I find more value in 90’s steel hybrid bicycles, the steel frame, cantilever brakes and 700c wheels, the possibilities are endless.
@1976tincho
2 жыл бұрын
Great video, I see from Argentina. I agree for should buy a '90 mtb bike. Recently I buy again my first bike after 30 years!! A steel Giant Boulder, use it to go to work now. Yes... I'm old biker. Congrats! 🇦🇷🇦🇷
@1thess523
2 жыл бұрын
Those Toyota trucks 👌, my first mountain bike around 93'/94 'was a neon orange Haro Escape that had these weird handle bar's that looked like bull horns that connected at the top. The "front suspension" was a skateboard bushing on the headstock 😂. I think it was Alivio but is was so out of sync it took a couple of clicks to get in gear and I was so, broke I didn't have money to get it dialed in , I got it for $50 at a pawnshop. With that said I had so much fun riding that bike and we rode like 5x a week 4 hrs at a time in a place here in San Antonio Texas called 700 Acres which was actually 700 Acres of trails. I had dreamed about a day I could ride those trails with a new bike, I did end up getting a nice KHS Summit running STX and then I got a new job, married and kid's and never rode a trail on that bike so I ended selling it. I got a nice 2004 Klein Palomino Full Suspension bike a while back in a trade because my goal was to start riding again because at 47 yrs old you realize you don't automatically get fit the older you get 😂, it's been a lot harder to get back on it but I haven't completely given up yet 👍.
@enlin
Жыл бұрын
I started mountain biking on a Trek 970 from 1998 and even if i'm racing enduro on an Intense Tracer today, i still have the fondest of memories of that Trek. I think i'm ready to build one up again.
@mtbboy1993
2 жыл бұрын
The only expensive 90s bike I've seen were great condition Klein. Saw one for sale at 1126$. I don't know what it sold for or if at all, but I guess this might have been a rare bike. But most old I've seen is cheap, even klein frames.
@thomaseisen304
2 жыл бұрын
I think the big issue there is knowledge Oldshovel , you are not a pro but you got a lot of experience already and know exactly what you can do with older bicycles , as I was watching Russ video I saw a lot of stuff to his bicycle that makes it very difficult to upgrade a bike to what you want (so in my mind Russ bought the worst case scenario) and that is the trouble to many people. And that's also why I love your videos , because it shows what it's possibe with older bikes in any way ! Sure people might say that's foolish there is to much to know about those stuff , but every bicycle has his limitation what you can use it for or what parts you can add to it even modern ones ! So in this case in my mind his statement 5 reasons to not to buy an older bicycle was chosen a bit unluckily but maybe you can give him some tips so he can get happy with his ride! Have a good one mate !
@mtbboy1993
2 жыл бұрын
They are defenitly not for me, just too abusive on my body. But I don't mind working on pols 90s bikes. Cons: Geometry, the low cockpit, will be fatiguing on the neck, upper body, arms, so higher cockpit will help, upsizing in frame size, but super slack seat tube might hurt your knees, defenitly fatigue. Fit: Due to geo and sizing they are brutal on the body, with my back neck problems I will avoid them, even 2010 bikes are too much for me, but all hardtail are for me offroad. The wobbly steering makes you work hard to keep the bike in control, not fall over to the side. Really a big work out. If you go too old the top tube is at silly height too, so upsizing means sitting on top tube. I still have one old bike it's 2010 hardtail I will get rid off it, as its too small, but the head angle, steering is really noticible, not much relaxing on such bike unless you are cruising on a straight hands off. But the saddle being so far back, you work the muscle differently. I've not had a 90s bike. The narrow handlebars guarantees misaligned elbows. So those would have to be changed, which I see you do on most of hour bikes, for me 800mm is minimum. But most bikes secondhand in Norway are several sizes too small for me, even worse with old bikes. But I see old bikes are still being used I saw several pstket in the city centre, I think ppl kept their old bikes or bought them for commuting. Better than the cheap junk from a department store or sports shop, there might be decent parts on them, but the cheap bikes pure junk. I love modern bikes. But 90s bikes are only to look at for me. But you have made some pretty bikes, and defenitly improved them. The kona just to name one, lovely blue frame with white fork, nice parts. But I don't mind a bike that looks like it was chopped up and made into a modern bike, those bikes still exist. Lovely steel frames with todays geometry.
@theepimountainbiker6551
2 жыл бұрын
Your last point, IM THAT GUY. I like simple XC rides on a 90s bike, its where I started and familiar. I hvae no desire to jump or drop 10 feet, honestly my 90s department store ridgid 26er I still prefer to ride over my 2021 Devinci hardtail. Its funny how what feels familiar feels best even though technology and design has gotten better. I dont think I'll ever give up on my 90s mountain bike
@TheBassman396
2 жыл бұрын
I have a modern full suspension bike and two 90’s bikes one is a yellow rockhopper rigid with matching cane creek rims it’s my commuter bike with a rack love it it’s smooth the other is a norco hard tail it’s now a 1X10 killer 90’s bikes are awesome
@literallydanny906
2 жыл бұрын
Damn, I need money to restore something, maybe a trysicle
@overnxted
2 жыл бұрын
I return cycling with a metal frame borrowed to me. Some months later I found an GT frame 1994 an build my own one, it cost me more than buy one already build. Some months later my seat post break and was impossible to find parts locally (I am from Costa Rica). Few days later I decided to buy a new one 2021 and of course fix the GT. The shouldn't on my case is the lack of parts and the necessity to import them. But I love to help my friends to fix and revive his old ones because they still work.
@ronwhite8503
2 жыл бұрын
I am lucky enough to own three 90's Konas and one 90's Trek 750. If I am honest I prefer riding these to my newer bikes. The Konas have had drop bars, Dutch bars as well as the originals and always work wonderfully. Steel is, indeed, real.
@tonycoffee7335
2 жыл бұрын
Not a 90s bike but I regret selling a 2006? BIANCHI lynx, gray. And I have been looking for a 2007 specialized stumpjumper fsr comp. Black/red. Frame. M or small.
@WETHEPEOPLESC
2 жыл бұрын
I just converted a 1992 giant Yukon to a gravel bike. I found it in completely original condition and barely ridden. There’s something about the feeling of the old steel frames that can’t be replaced.
@singletona082
2 жыл бұрын
Forty year old guy claiming thing from a little over twenty years ago is the bestest thing ever and nothing since then compares and is the bestest ever EVER EVER *EVER*. As a fellow fourtiesh. Maybe you're right. After all trends have been towards cutting corners and having everything shipped from slave factories in China so you may be right. However it comes across like blind nostalgia where it's this cane waving oldster screeching it was better back in their day. So by 2030 we'll be seeing the next hip thing being how amazing 2000's era bike frames were.
@lylejones5141
2 жыл бұрын
And ultimately if you want to who cares what other people think. I grew up riding the first mtb's ever produced through to the 90's and early 2000. Health took me other directions but getting back into mtb again. Building up a 1998 Kona Iguana SE.
@byrondot
2 жыл бұрын
Amen to all you said. 90s bikes were built to last, and they are more polivalent (with a few modifications) than nowadays bikes. I have a 2007 Specialized Hard Rock Pro (I think that those frames are the last breathe of what happened in the 90s before the 27.5"/29" bikes), and I still keep a 3x9 setup updated/upgraded with components of that time with a combo of Deore/Sram X7-X9 (I resist to move to a 1x10), I changed the Marzocchi fork for a 2008 Rock Shox Sid, and put Mavic 223 rims that are lighter than the Alexrims that had the bike originally. I enjoy to ride it, as much to a short travel in the city or to take her to the mountain. I think that now is common to put the trend before the joy of a ride, and IMHO, I think that 90s were all about. Big hug, and I liked a lot this video!
@danpatterson7108
2 жыл бұрын
Insert nutty hardcore everything must be new guy here, who's gonna go into a spiral meltdown for even suggesting that you can actually live without a dropper post. And don't even fuckin dare to suggest that you actually like x3... They'll explode in rage... lol
@rufsanchez8385
2 жыл бұрын
Great video! Steel is real!!, I love my 90's Trek 970, super light, super comfy, what wheelset are you getting? I'm looking also for a wheelset, thanks
@drewcain
2 ай бұрын
I still ride a late 90's Yeti ARC, it's maxed out with full XTR, CrossMax's, V'Brakes of course and weights sub 20lbs. I'm 50 now, ride with a dozen guys all a decade or more younger than me who all ride high end XC bikes (some hard tails, some not). These old bikes can still go fast if you learn to ride them like we did back in the day. If all you've ridden is 29rs with wide bars, drop posts and 1x gearing, you're not going to understand unless you go spend real time on one of these bikes.
@oldshovel
2 ай бұрын
You are spot on my friend.
@nikolaibohachevsky2301
2 жыл бұрын
Your reason no. 5 is a hot topic, that’s for sure! And for me it is reason no.1 The trend with low, long, slack bike geometry trickling its way down into mainstream bike models is purely marketing driven from my perspective. It can be likened to everyone wanting an F1 car for their commuter vehicle to work. Its impractical and improperly purposed. I ride a 90’s mtb on the steepest terrain and in bike parks and except for the hottest of hotdogs on the hill I hold my own against any modern bike. And I am not trying to be the fastest guy down the hill. I have a bike thats matched to my skills and speeds that I am comfortable with; which means its a blast to ride. I don’t have to push out of my comfort zone (and i still like to send it)to make the thing work. Or not be capable at all to ride it aggressively enough to make it work as intended; which is less fun. Maybe its me but I have always seen the bicycle as a practical means of transportation with a very small carbon foot print; and to boot its one of the most enjoyable and healthy activities out there, good for the soul. To force it into yet another consumerist obsession with short lived fads and short service life just doesn’t fit. But hey thats me…..
@alexh.4068
2 жыл бұрын
oldshovel, what do you think about early and mid 2000s hardtail dirt jumpers. Basically 90's bikes with lower standover, disc ready, and are made to handle airtime. For me they are the perfect starter bike that can be upgraded as skills progress :-)
@BangTheRocksTogether
2 жыл бұрын
Reasons I shouldn't buy a '90s mountain bike: 1. One more '90s mountain bike would be the start of a pile, and I don't need a pile of anything. Piles take mental energy.
@MrSete15
2 жыл бұрын
Had a 2013 orange crush hardtail sold it to get a whyte t130 full suspension mtb……regret it everyday 😂😂😂
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