Here's my 90's Raleigh MTB - Restore or Renew?

[DJMC]

Bought in the 90's, not ridden since 2005. From crank to top of seat tube 21.5". 26" wheels.
I'm 6'1 & 15st and was fairly fit before lockdown.

Looking at a Hybrid as an alternative BUT... if this suited me back then why change? What's happened in 15-30 years to entice me to a newer bike? Could afford £500 new but would probably (carefully) buy used for better value, say £250.

I've stripped bikes before so servicing shouldn't be an issue but there will most likely be a cost involved in cables, brake pads, tyres, etc.

So, should I stay "Retro" or go modern? It's for recreational riding, mainly on cycle paths and not road use.


My wife's is in the shed too. Raleigh Vixen - ridden 100 yards in its life! She doesn't want another though. What should I do with it, sell as is or get it back to a ridable state, then sell?




Thanks for any advice/suggestions.

[DJMC]

Is a Whistle Patwin 1383D likely to be better?

Starter bike I know, but a tad more modern. Under £100 local to me.

[DJMC]

Found myself looking at the Voodoo range but haven't found a good comparison chart with all the different models and specs. Can anyone direct me to such a thing, if it exists?

I'll clean up the old bikes anyhow, but I think I'd feel I was missing out if I didn't have something more lightweight. modern, and with hydraulic brakes (just got hung up on this feature, not sure why!).

[DJMC]

Well yesterday I set it up, washed it down, pumped up the 30 year old tyres/tubes and off I went round the garden.
Plan to clean up the gears and re-lube today so I'm not using any residual crap as a grinding paste, plus lube cables, before I take it up the lane for a longer run.

Cost = zero. But I'll have to see if the tyres are still inflated today! No cracks or perishing.

I still don't like the twists grips, never did. They are so imprecise. Probably the major reason I'd want to switch to a 1x system, Bizango or MHT 8.6 maybe.

Just wondering if I could convert the old bike to a 1 x 10 or similar but I'd have to find a very slim rear cassette. Where would I start? I'm guessing by measuring the width of the rear fork gap.

Then I could have a better single shifter, maybe some better brakes.

Or... am I throwing money away for nostalgia's sake?

[DJMC]

Wife’s spec no better.

Think I’ll buy a Bizango or MHT 8.6. Both have good spec for £650-675 new. Missed a new red 8.6 Sunday. Chap sold it for £300 not noticing I messaged him. May look for another used bargain but the usual £100 or so drop isn’t worth not having a warranty.

Boardman have moved from a Shimano crank to Prowheel due to parts shortages. Is that very bad?