Light MTB, old, and 2nd hand needs TLC ,advise needed

bing gordon

I use to own a Specialized Rockhopper (2000 I think) till it was stolen last September. In the winter months when the weather was too rough to get the road bike out I would hammer the towpaths local to me on my good old trusty Spesh but my replacement bike is far too heavy and bulky and it's put me clean off riding in the winter.

What bikes are out there either new/cheap or, I prefer a good quality 2nd hand bike that's light and solid like my old Specialized. I have scoured the ads but people are talking daft money for a bike like my old one like £200-£250 , I paid £85 and worth every penny. Something around £150 max 2nd hand would do me as I don't mind tarting it up,. Chips, scratches and ripped seats don't bother me I'm more concerned about the weight and feel of the ride and it shifts OK.

Straight forward caliper brakes and front shocks with suffice , thanks in advance

The Rookie

I presume front shocks means suspension forks and caliper brakes you mean V-brakes?

I'd look for a V-braked Carrera such as a Vulcan, frame is very similar to the later aluminium specialised (made in the same factory) and is pretty light.