I just picked up a 2000 Factory in near mint condition and noticed the decals seem pretty weak and just stuck on with no clear coat over them. Is this normal and if so can anyone suggest a good way to keep them intact. The stem on one of the top tube tomatoes is starting to peal or dog ear. I Picked this up as built frame for $300, It had 8 speed grip shift that swapped to XTR 9 speed. I will try to get some picks posted after I swap control tech stem with a Ritchey Comp and put newer NOS 2003 XT cranks on. Came with Mavic Crossland tubless wheels and Avid Elixir 1 disc.
Still needs some upgrades; Different Fork, seat (it's a Forte) and tires, looking at putting back the Mavic Crossland wheels with Continental Mountain King Tubeless. I put the Mavic X223s on because they had an XT 9 speed cassette ready to go.
That looks like a 2001 frame to me. judging from the disc brake tabs. Looks pretty nice.