Rebuild/upgrade or buy new

bluben79

I've just started trail riding after a four year break. I've got a fairly beaten up 2005 Merlin Malt 2, Magura Vidar Fork, Deore cranks, hubs, gearset etc. Avid Julie brakes, mavic 317 wheels. I have virtually no mechanical knowledge or skill and the bike needs full service. I think the back wheel will need replacing and possibly a new gearset, break and fork service.

My question is it worth servicing and upgrading parts or buying new? I'm thinking a full service will be £100 with parts and labour extra so maybe looking £2-300 to get the bike back to its best. Am I better off spending a few hundred more and buying a new hardtail as components on their own seem to be more expensive than when in a bike package. I could maybe go a bit more with pay monthly. It seems that bikes have changed a lot since I stopped riding, 650 29ers etc although I still like the look and feel of my Malt 2.

chrisw333

I think you would almost certainly be better off with a new bike.

Look at the Boardman or Voodoo ranges at Halfords and the Rockrider 8.1 at Decathlon.

The Rookie

For once I'd suggest a new bike, meanwhile spruce the Malt up as best you can and sell it (with total honesty!)....

Chunkers1980

I think a whole Deore group (~£240) and a new set of air RS forks around £200/50, little bearing service of the wheels and headset and you'd have a great bike.

bluben79

Thanks for the replies. I took it to my LBS and they are servicing for a reasonable price. It needs a new bottom bracket but other than that I may have been harsh on the condition as the mechanic reckons he can true the rear wheel and the groupset is in fairly good nick. Think I'll ride this for a while to see if I get the bug again if I do some of the Charge bikes look nice.