Well I thought i was going to buy a used easy rider today.  Ad stated the bike had a 27 speed (9 speed) with a xt rear. Seller stated it had'nt been ridden for some time(8 yrs.).  When I saw the bike it was reasonibly clean for the age, noted it was a 24 (8 cogs)  .   On my test ride i started down hill and noted the smooth ride, turned around to bring it back and tried to shift to a lower gear, no go, so up I go in the second highest gear and discover easy riders use of hose clamps  . spent the next hour trying to get the thing to shift propery, no go.  It was a disapointment in some ways, but, by looking at this bike it shows the newer tech. has made  bikes so much better in performace.  I doubt if the owner would have gone down on the asking price and I didnt offer. but  I expected I would have to change out the shifter, rear d. brake pads and new tires.  I guess if I were the seller and found the item not to function I would price it to reflect the problems. So...i guess would you made an offer just for the frame and wheels and build from there? Or hold for a better bike?