2006 Gary Fisher Paragon 29er - possible purchase
 

I'm looking to possible upgrade the very cheap mountain bike I got a few months ago, with another used not as cheap bike. This looks to fit the bill. Any thoughts? This is a 29er, has hydraulic brakes.

Reason for upgrade: Earlier this year I bought a used bike, GF Advance I think. I got the bike to start riding with my daughter and my mentee (think Big Brother, Big Sister). My mentee really enjoys riding. We were renting bikes until he was able to get his back from a family member. I helped him bring it home and it was in bad shape. Cheap big box bike that had several issues. I thought we had most sorted out until we went for a ride and his wheel is bent. This combined with other issues, makes it not worth repairing. I thought I might just give him the bike I bought earlier, which would leave me in the market for one. Don't need to buy, but if i find a good deal, I thought I'd do it. I think I can get it for $300.

Specs from bikepedia:

Frame & Fork
Frame Construction TIG-welded
Frame Tubing Material Platinum Series ZR9000 aluminum
Fork Brand & Model RockShox Reba Race Dual Air 29, 80mm travel
Fork Material Aluminum/magnesium, single crown
Rear Shock Not applicable

Components
Component Group Mountain Mix
Brakeset Avid Juicy 7 brakes, Avid Juicy 7 hydraulic levers
Shift Levers SRAM X.9 Triggers
Front Derailleur Shimano FD-M580 LX
Rear Derailleur SRAM X.9
Crankset Bontrager Race, 22/32/44 teeth
Pedals Shimano PD-M520
Bottom Bracket TruVativ GXP
BB Shell Width Unspecified
Rear Cogs 9-speed, 11 - 34 teeth
Chain Shimano CN-HG73, 1/2 x 3/32"
Seatpost Bontrager Select
Saddle Bontrager Race Lux
Handlebar Bontrager Race OS Riser
Handlebar Extensions Not included
Handlebar Stem Bontrager Race OS
Headset 1 1/8" threadless Cane Creek S-3

Wheels
Hubs Bontrager Race Disc
Rims Bontrager Race Disc
Tires 29 x 2.25" Bontrager Jones XR
Spoke Brand Unspecified
Spoke Nipples Unspecified
- See more at: 2006 Gary Fisher Paragon - BikePedia

That's my MTB. For $300 you couldn't go wrong, I think I paid over $1,500 but I did have some upgrades.

After riding a buddies full suspension bike, I'm ready to change. I'm just too old for a hard tail even if it's a 29er.

Thanks David. I figured it was a good deal, just wanted to make sure. I just talked to her and it comes with a second set of wheels/tires.

For $300 I'd buy (jump on) it (without a ppi!).

If you take it for a test ride- put the bike in some of the high gears (11tooth/12 tooth/13 tooth, whatever, etc) rear cogs and step on it. If the drivetrain is worn out the chain will usually jump in those gears first.

Also listen for any creaking/drivetrain noise as you step on it (rules out bad/loose bottom bracket)

Finally- look for oil leaks on the forks. Ask them how often the forks need recharging. If they are air shocks the seals can go bad.

That's about it, and for $300- you can't really complain! Take the $$$ you saved and go support those small downtown businesses that don't have enough parking.!:D
R

good on you for being a big brother.

how tall is the young kid?

Thanks Vash. I asked a few questions here when I started. I need to do a follow up post.

I'm guessing he is 5'6". He is fifteen so still growing. The bike I currently have is 17". He rode it last weekend, while I rode his.

I'd buy yours in a heartbeat.