Need help getting an ID and date on this Orange Bikes frame please

[FluffyChicken]

In 1998 they made an STX level MC40 version and went stud (the style you show) rather than screw bolt and for the lever changed the colour and a different barrel adjuster.
STX-RC then also used this for reasons only known to Shimano.


But this bike is 1997, and has the 1997 groupset when M600 was Deore LX, STX-RC and DX.

The M600 style levers went on for over another decade. Crap as they are.

Edit to add a pictures
I think they alway branded the RC? And all lower level use that brake stud design.

 

[Twozaskars]

I like those levers (but I’ve fulfilled my debate quota for the day).

 

[FluffyChicken]

Some people do love the, I just find them harsh on the finger and hands and well XT and Avid are just better ;-)
But then I love GripShift and some odd people don't.

@Jamesgornell comeback, please, don't run away.....

 

[Twozaskars]

Nothing beats gripshift in that moment you weren’t really paying attention and suddenly you’re at the bottom of a hill you can’t possibly climb in any other gear but first.