fixing the bike that was 'good in it's day'

skis_8

actually I don't know how spectacular it was in it's day but it's my way of saying that I ride an old POS.
anyway, I have an older Pro-Flex Arcadia and as it's limping into it's 2nd decade of use I'm starting to have to change some components on it (gently changing since I'm a student money is usually better spent on rent and tp ). I had a fun time refitting the back elastomer shock and it's painfully obvious that the derailleurs are the next to go.
I have old Shimano Alivio [MC10] derailleurs on it and I'd like to upgrade if I could since I ride the bike quite a bit now (btw 1-2 hours most days on/off road). The thing is that my bike is a 21 speed and so far everything that I've looked at is 9/8 speed compatable.
Can I get away with not replacing everything from the pedals on backward and just do the derailleurs?
If you guys know a decent derailleur that would fit this dinosaur pls lemme know (a cheap site to get components would also be nice).

And if the only thing that you can think of when reading this is 'by god man put that thing out to stud and buy a new bike' then by all means say that too.
thanks

MidBunchLurker

Most 9 speed ders should work with your old 7-speed. Possibly have a look at Shimano Deore.

I ride a 7-speed 1994 Kona, which has just got a 9-speed Deore XT rear der - no problems.

Nothing wrong with an old bike... if it aint broke don't fix it!

__________________
nick.

www.nickcoyne.com

kokopuffs

Midbunchlurker:
I have a Specialized Rockhopper with a 7 speed rear freewheel (approx 1994 model). So what you're implying is that the Deore XT 9 speed derailleur indexes the same amount as my stock Shimano Altus A10 rear derailleur.

I'm thinking of upgrading in case the A10 poops out.

TIA.

gregg

Derailleurs dont index - you can use whatever you want. All indexing comes from your shifter.
GB

skis_8

thanks for the replies guys!!
I'm looking at some Deore stuff and I think that's the way to go.

Spin baby

Alrighty then.....

I have a 12 year old Raleigh mountain bike with Shimano 200GS gearing system on it. Everything still works , but it just isn't cutting the mustard at this point gearing wise..( stress load prevents front gear changes and it is only a 6 speed).

I considered buying a new bike, but my desire for Shimano xt gearing prices a new bike out of my range. Besides, I like the size and feel of this bike.

What I am wondering is if the Shimano XT cassette, derailers, front cranks and shifters will fit on a 12 year old frame? Anyone know?

How about front suspension? Would a Rockshox Pilot XC fork 2003 fit the headtube?

These are probably really elementary questions... but I would really like to go into my LBS knowing it will work.

Brizza

becareful in upgrading as you may need to change the freewheel. I don't think 7sp is compatible with 9, though I know that 8 and 9 are.
I would recomend buying a new bike if you are looking to upgrade the drive chain.

Derailures- I think that the new Alivio is a similar quality to the old Deore, otherwise look for STX RC which is old 7-8 sp gear. They might be cheaper for the penny consious student.

Spin baby

Thanks for the imput Brizza....

I was considering upgrading the Raleigh cause I have been spec-ing out new bikes.... and I have to tell ya.... buying a car is easier. ; ) LOL

But yeah... it is time to buy new.