Vintage Mountain Bike Appraisal

Paramount Series 700 Mountain Bike

The item is a vintage Paramount Series 700 mountain bike, likely manufactured in the early to mid-1990s, given the visible componentry and frame style prevalent during that era. The frame features a striking two-tone color scheme, transitioning from a black upper tube and seat stay with 'Series 700' decals in a lighter color, to a deep reddish-maroon on the down tube, head tube, and front fork. The "PARAMOUNT" branding is prominently displayed in a bold, white font on the down tube. The bike appears to be constructed from metal, likely chromoly steel, common for high-quality mountain bikes of its period known for durability and a compliant ride. Key physical characteristics include 26-inch wheels with silver-colored rims and black tires that appear to have a moderate knobby tread suitable for both paved and unpaved surfaces. The drivetrain consists of multiple chainrings at the front and a cassette at the rear, suggesting a wide range of gears (likely 21 or 24 speed, given the era). The front crankset is silver-toned, typical of aluminum or polished steel. Componentry visible includes what appears to be Shimano Deore XT or LX level parts, indicated by the rear derailleur and crankset, which signifies a higher-quality build. The handlebars are flat with bar-ends, a common setup for mountain biking in the 90s, providing multiple hand positions. The saddle is black with red accents, showing some signs of use but no major tears. Observable condition issues appear minimal from the image, but some dirt and minor scuffs are present, consistent with regular use. There are no obvious signs of major dents, cracks, or rust, though a more detailed inspection would be needed to confirm. The cables and housing appear to be in reasonable shape. The quality of craftsmanship is suggested by the use of branded components and the overall robust appearance of the frame. Unique aspects include the specific two-tone paint job and the 'Series 700' designation, which pinpoints it to a particular model line within the Paramount brand, known for its cycling heritage.