Quote Originally Posted by Kitsune06
I'm a pretty firm believer in 'It's the operator, not the machine' ... with provisions:
1. Does your machine fit you properly?
2. How is the frame weight/strength/stiffness compared to the bike you have your eye on? Everything else is changeable... Frames are forever.
3. Is the frame still in good condition?

BC has been with me for about 3 years now... but a fully outfitted hardtail at 28# isn't too bad. Her frame's in good shape. The money I'd spend on a new bike will instead go to a new wheelset, disc brakes, avid Full Metal Jackets (avid mech brakes) and, when necessary, derailleurs, chains, etc as needed.

...but I'm embarrassingly attached to my bikey. I think I'd shrivel into a ball and cry if I lost her.

Thanks kitsune06. My machine fits me like a dream. It's alum but I really like the stiffness of the ride although it can get pretty rough on bumpy roads. The frame is in great condition. I've babied my bike like nothing else I've ever owned.

I'm embarssingly attached to my bike as well. A serious buyer came by yesterday and I very reluctantly allowed her to test ride it and watching her ride away with made me so sad. I'm such a wuss.