Yes, you're right about that. Maybe I should have described it in a different way: a steel frameset that used to come with an xtr. My 970 came with DX/XT so that's why I didn't consider it "top end".
If it helps, the ‘92 Team Marin has the same frame as team issue but with better downtube and paint so it doesn’t rust to buggery. Also had XTR front drivetrain
If it helps, the ‘92 Team Marin has the same frame as team issue but with better downtube and paint so it doesn’t rust to buggery. Also had XTR front drivetrain
And XTR cranks, XTR BB but XT hubs, brakes shifters and rear mech
Can confirm is same frame as “issue” - they both had the “new ultimate down tube”, with the ribbing on the outside
A full M900 set up would suit it, not many geeks would know this info
Edit: @matt, can you link to the post with your 92 Team in it? Ta