rock hopper or 700ht???

[dburnash]

Hi, everyone, getting back into riding after a lay off for awhile. ride mostly xc also ride paved trails and rail trails with the wife. right now im riding a rigid 1992 specialized rock hopper with suntour x-1 components. Have been looking at the motobecane 700 ht with deore xt components front shocks and disc brakes for $499.00 any oppinions on whether this is a worthwile upgrade?? all opinions appreciatede thanks mike.

[borregokid]

It has 27 speeds and disc brakes for $450 which is a pretty good deal. If you had the money to step to the $800 bike I think you would see a big difference with lighter and better components including hydraulic brakes. I think REI with their Ponderosa and Bonanza hardtails would be worth checking out as well as Performance Bikes. The price difference is not all that great when you are talking $500-$800 plus you will get fitted instead of guessing.