Info Needed: 2004 GT Zaskar Expert vs. New Cheap Options

TwistedHalo

So, beyond riding trick bikes as a kid, I am completely new to riding. I want to pick up a new mountain bike. But, as my budget is extremely limited, and I want to make sure I like it before I shell out big bucks, I don't have much money to spend. I was originally looking to spend about $250 on a new low end mountain bike. But, I decided to check out craigslist to see what I could find. I came across this (supposedly) lightly used 2004 GT Zaskar Expert that the internet tells me retailed for $1000 when it came out, for $200. Being that I really don't know anything about the subject I figured I would post this question to the fine ladies and gentlemen of this forum. If the GT is actually in really good shape, am I getting more bang for my buck paying $200 for it than I am if I pay $200-300 for a new bike? Or has technology caught up enough that the new cheapo will be just as good? Thanks for any responses in advance!

Craigslist: https://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/bik/d ... 25632.html

Bicycle Bluebook page: https://www.bicyclebluebook.com/SearchL ... odel=55029

The Rookie

You aren't going to get a mountain bike you can do more than pootle down gravel tracks on for under about $500 new.

The Zaskar is a great bike, well specced for its age and worth putting extra money into at a later date.

TwistedHalo

The Rookie wrote:

You aren't going to get a mountain bike you can do more than pootle down gravel tracks on for under about $500 new.

The Zaskar is a great bike, well specced for its age and worth putting extra money into at a later date.

Thanks. I pulled the trigger and actually talked the guy down to $170. Seems to be in really good shape. I'll take it in for a tune up and hit the trails!