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I got it as a sort of hand me down a couple of years ago. I think that it is from the late 90s or early 2000s. It is definitely a mountain bike and it is red and silver/gray. It is hard to pick out any defining characteristics because the seat and shocks are aftermarket and there are stickers all over the frame...any ideas?

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  • Not necessarily a BSO, but it's pretty generic, and nothing screams "expensive". Looks like a perfectly serviceable bike, though.
    – Daniel R Hicks
    Commented Feb 4, 2016 at 0:08
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    No, a mountain bike should roll about as well as any other, aside from the drag due to the lugged tires. The front shock (if not "locked") does make pedaling somewhat less efficient, but that has no effect on how well the bike rolls.
    – Daniel R Hicks
    Commented Feb 4, 2016 at 0:20
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    Looks like it says "Giant" in the downtube under all those stickers. That's a reputable bike company, so most likely not a BSO if that's what it says.
    – Kibbee
    Commented Feb 4, 2016 at 1:59
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    Seriously thank all of you guys so much you have helped me a lot...I was well on my way to going to buy a new bike but it sounds like I may not have to do that...you've all been so much help!
    – user24423
    Commented Feb 4, 2016 at 13:45
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    @Criggie "hardpoint" for handlebar mounted stuff I would guess. Looks quite useful for flashlight (centered and level,
    – PTwr
    Commented Feb 5, 2016 at 13:08

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If you remove the stickers it might help show you any branding.

It LOOKS like a reasonably decent, slightly old school mountain bike. The kind worth handing down. People are debating if its a BSO. This means Bike Shaped Object, which is derogatory term for rubbish bikes sold in supermarkets etc.

It looks better than that, branded forks and decent derailleurs, good headset, but should be easier to ride than you commented. Pick up the bike and spin the wheels. If they stop quickly there's a problem, with the brakes and/or with the bearings.

If you take it to a bike shop, they can help identify it and tell you what it's worth. They can get it rolling like new again. I would recommend some slicker tyres if you want to ride on the road - but keep the suspension for rough roads and potholes!

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