Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from minneapolis, minnesota, hennepin Date Reviewed: July 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$480.00
Purchased At:
erik's bike shop
Strengths:
great frame
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket set sucks
Similar Products Used:
1999 non a1 comp fs
Bike Setup:
bone stock except pedals tires and bottom bracket set
Bottom Line:
this bike rocks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Fehman
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft.Wayne In. Date Reviewed: July 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
fast single track
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$495.00
Purchased At:
Summit city
Strengths:
Solid frame, cool coler (Mt.Dew green) I like the STX Rapid Fire shiffters better then the LX I have on my other bike.
Weaknesses:
The fork is a joke.
Similar Products Used:
Stump Jumper M4
Bike Setup:
105mm X-Vert, Mavic wheel set, Avid brakes, XT/XTR r.derailier & cassete, Tru-Vativ cranks, Kore stem and bar, and a Lizzard skin.
Bottom Line:
Great entry level bike but if you end up liking the sport get ready to do some upgrades. (Front Fork)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T-Dot
a Racer
from Atlantic Canada Date Reviewed: February 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
City biking
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$475.00
Purchased At:
Toronto
Strengths:
The 19" frame is really light, and the bike accelerates fast. You can also load this bike down with so much gear for long treks, and it feels like nothing
Weaknesses:
the aluminum errodes where ever anything toutchs it, and chunks flake off when the bike is dumped hard. The small frame is horrible in the air, and inspires no confidence... It can be scary, and expect to go over the front. Where the back rim hits the frame has erroded 2mm, and dosn't look good.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Fire Mountain
Bike Setup:
Only the frame's original; all I need now is a brake booster, since the frame-flex on the back is scary...
Bottom Line:
An awsome bike; light, fast, phat looking, and easily upgraded. the 19" is great for rippin' around, but sucks in the air...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh DeWeese
a Weekend Warrior
from Sandy Oregon Date Reviewed: January 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
jumps & mud????
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$495.00
Strengths:
The Frame is a very nice one, also the crank arms are strong, and the shifters seem to be good enough.
Weaknesses:
The rims because I destroyed the rear one, the hubs, the seat, the short travle fork, flexy pedals, and the crank bearings.
Similar Products Used:
The only other bike I ride is a Vegas TRX.
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Psylo XC front suspension, Sun rhino Lite XL rims with Deore LX hubs, new pedals, Bontrager seat, and Deore LX brakes.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a inexpensive bike with a kick @$$ frame get this one. If you ride hard you will need to replace things as they brake to upgrade it but once it is fixed up it will be twice as nice as that 2,000 stumpjumper. What can you expect from a 500 dollar bike, upgrade it and it is a racing machine!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gili
a Downhiller
from Jerusalem ISRAEL Date Reviewed: October 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Nitsan Bikes Jerusalem
Strengths:
frame; frame; frame; fork; headset
Weaknesses:
pedals; brakes; front hub
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4500, Haro A7.3
Bottom Line:
Great bikes, better then most types I ever used or tried, best money value, saving money to buy S-works M4.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Naperville, IL USA Date Reviewed: September 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Knoch Knolls
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
from a friend
Strengths:
excellent handling, good components for beginners (but should be upgraded if you plan to do any real riding!), good solid frame, good deal for the price!
Weaknesses:
chain sucks that comes with the bike, shifters are weak, shock isn't the greatest, but isen't bad for a beginner's bike.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
SID XC front shock, avid 1.0 levers, stx-rc front and rear deurailleurs, stx-rc stock shifer pods, Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires (these are handle great and are definately worth the money!), Tektro brakes, bike computer, Shimano parallax hubs, Ritchey seatpost, stock saddle.
Bottom Line:
This is an amazing bike for the money. I think you will be very happy with the quality that you receive from Specialized.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Milwaukee, WI. USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
ANY
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$390.00
Purchased At:
Wheel & Sprocket
Strengths:
Great aluminum frame, rides like a Lincoln compared to all other bikes I have ridden.
Weaknesses:
Front shock could use more travel, foot pedals
Similar Products Used:
Scott mountain bikes, Schwinn mesa gsx, Schwinn frontier, Trek 6000
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike for a first time mountain biker like myself. Makes trail rides alot more enjoyable. Great price. Good build quality and finish
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob the fish
a Downhiller
from mars Date Reviewed: March 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
dog sh*t alley
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$450.00
Strengths:
Great hardcore frame, components are good for first time buyers
Weaknesses:
weak forks, components not brilliant for experianced riders, rims are weak - if proper rider they will buckle very quickly
Bike Setup:
****NOT CROSS COUNTRY**** general play bike - downhill, jumping, trials etc.
Bottom Line:
this bike is great for beginners that want to get into the sport, also if buying it for your first MTB, and want to ride seriously for longterm, allow extra money for upgrades, when this bike is up graded it is perfect. i have upgraded brakes, stem, handlebars, saddle, forks (RS judy sl are perfect), both wheels and more. overall this bike is excellent for everyone
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Billy Madison
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, Az Date Reviewed: February 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
50 Year Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Tucson Bicycles
Strengths:
Strong bike set-up
Weaknesses:
The seat hurts my a$$
Similar Products Used:
Trek
Bike Setup:
All orignal parts except for XTR shifting pods. Bontrager Jones tires.
Bottom Line:
EXCELLENT BIKE. Greeaaatttt value. Its an excellent bike, I enjoy riding the bike on long hard trails. It will handle anything you come across, maybe not the best shock, but it is alright. I like hows it rides. Nice, light frame. It'll take jumps and hard bumps. Once again, EXCELLENT BIKE!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Silverdale ,Washington U.S Date Reviewed: January 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mt Ranier (Rock jumping)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$375.00
Purchased At:
Bought used off the internet
Strengths:
Durable, Light weight easy to monuver and a great all around bike good for long distance and rugged off roads
Weaknesses:
All the weaknesses that I've found have been the components shocks, Grips, crank arms, etc...
Similar Products Used:
The only bike similar that I've ridden is my older brothers klein.
This is a great Bike for both beginners and experienced riders. This bike is just about undistructable and will last a life time. Great for joy riding and for hardcore thrashing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve M
a Cross Country Rider
from Yateley, Hampshire, UK Date Reviewed: October 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ones that say "NO BIKES"
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Good Frame, gearset, light weight (for price), excellent tyres and a really confident feel on the rough stuff.
Weaknesses:
Hard as a Rock saddle, Soft OEM brake pads
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Kona Fire Mountain
Bike Setup:
Out the box apart from new pads and crud catcher
Bottom Line:
10 out of 10. Great build quality, excellent finish. A good entry level bike that feels very confident over rough terrain, thanks to the Rock Shox fork. I was so impressed with this model that I purchased the demo bike my LBS let me test. I have not regretted that decision, (some 300 miles later!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Scholl
a Cross Country Rider
from Amarillo, TX, U.S. Date Reviewed: October 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Palo Duro Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Bicycles Outback, Waco, TX
Strengths:
looks great, solid frame, good price, durable, dependable
Weaknesses:
rock shock rs c, rear derailer, cranks, wheels, and tires
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
manatou sx r, shimano xt rear derailer, bar ends, specialized body geometry seat
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike for a beginner, and with a few upgrades, it can handle almost anything. i would suggest replacing the rear derailer (stx) if you are going to be doing any climbing, cause the damn things skip too much and are real noisy! the front shock is stiff, and can can be ruff at times, up grade if you can. the only thing that really went wrong with my bike was the crank, no matter how much i tightened it, the left crank would get loose and fall off. i simply took it to the shop and they gave me a new on for free. this is a great bike for the money, and i would suggest it to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trey Knight
a
from Savannah, GA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Pumping Station
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
The Bicycle Link
Strengths:
Good Durability and dependability. Good mix between high end and middle level parts. Good accelaertion.
Weaknesses:
The shifters
Bottom Line:
This is a good bike. I have been riding for two years now and it has held of great to all types of torture. I have made a few additions but nothing outrageous.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Weekend Warrior
from las vegas nv. Date Reviewed: July 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
all of em'
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
cost,appearence,durability
Weaknesses:
fork,weight
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock with specialized body geometry saddle and wellgo clipless pedals
Bottom Line:
I really like this bike. I'm a former USCF category 4 road racer and this is my first mountain bike. I bought it because I wanted to go "off-roading" but didn't want to spend a fortune. I spent less than $500 complete with bottles, cages, pump, tire levers, patch kit and bag. I would recommend the body geometry saddle as it helps prevent numbness on long rides. I've ridden with some friends who have high-end bikes and always seem to be out front. That could be attributed to my conditioning and technique but no doubt the Comp FS A1 Hardrock is a quality bike. I ride this bike like I hate it and have had no problems with it. I must say however, that it's a handful on fast rutted out descents and you better be in shape before you attempt any long climbs as the bike is a bit heavy and the Rock Shox Jett C fork provides only moderate shock absorption. If you want a tough-as-nails entry-level bike and don't want to break the bank, this is one worth looking at.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr. T
a Weekend Warrior
from Bay Area Date Reviewed: June 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Nice light frame with exceptional handling on and off road. Best Value out there.
Weaknesses:
Derailleurs are so-so. I can live with the rock shox jett but the shifting response is sucky. Upgrade there if anything.
Similar Products Used:
2000 Specialized RockHopper A1 comp.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! I bought the 1999 in Spring 2000 and got it for $400! It is a great beginner bike (Like me) but beginners beware...this bike has such a satisfying feel you'll be begging for more. The bike holds its own on semi techincal trials but if there is improvement to be made its in the derailleur category. Its been 3 months since I've bought mine and I've seen them on sale for $350! Demo one before they're gone and I'm sure you'll be impressed!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a
from Fort Worth, Texas Date Reviewed: May 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very attractive brushed-aluminum finish, value for the price, overall "feel" of the bike and components - a good match
Weaknesses:
Seat (A Hard Rock indeed)
Similar Products Used:
Road bikes
Bike Setup:
For commuting & paved trails
Bottom Line:
First, I'm not a mountain biker. I bought this bike for commuting to work (3.7 miles each way) in a city environment. I tried my road bike. It's great for its purpose but not well suited for city life.
Giving my dealer the requirements for my new bike, he first showed me some hybrids. Too flimsy for my route (curbs, rough pavement, glass, etc.) I first tried the steel-framed HardRock but hated those grip shifters. Trying the 19" A1 was very close, but I felt cramped. The 21" was just right, although the 19" was more agile and my choice if I was "mountain biking".
Agility and responsiveness is a fine thing, but a commuter adds a rear rack and a bunch of crap on it for work which throws the balance of the bike off. A slightly larger frame adds stability. This could be offset by adding weight to the front wheel, but commuter bikes look nerdy enough without adding front racks (I'm getting to the nerdy part - stop reading this if you don't want to see a thoroughbred pulling a hay wagon).
The A1 in brushed aluminum finish is a beautiful thing. It looks like a $1500 bike. Being an engineer, the first thing I did was put a rear rack on it, a Blackburn MTM-1. Arriving the first day at work in the rain with a big brown stripe down the back of my jacket, a pair of Zefal fenders were added. Then, the rear panniers. The panniers are really a neat garment bag made by Two Wheel Gear in Canada. This is a GREAT bag! Of course, I carry a laptop, papers, etc. in an black nylon attache case. All this adds a lot of weight to the rear wheel.
People at work call it the SUAVE (Sam's Urban Assault VEhicle). It's literally draped with those black nylon bags. Cateye lights and a convex mirror on the handlebars were added. But underneath is a fine machine with stock parts that delivers me to work in comfort, safety, and [somewhat debated] style.
I'm glad I bought the A1 instead of the standard HardRock. The components aren't top-notch, but I'll replace them with better stuff as they break or wear out. The rims are a little weak, as are the brakes (especially wet). The tires could be better. Man, that seat came off the first day - that thing is HARD!
Overall, I give it 5 Jalapeno's for Value, -1 for Overall Rating (a nice gel seat wouldn't cost a fortune for Specialized to provide). This is a nice bike stock with no need for excuses, and upgrades are easily available. For $500, I didn't find a better bike. Especially a better-looking bike. I've gotten a lot of compliments on it. I'm also a law student, and one coworker said it best, "That thing looks like a lawyer's bike".
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scooby
a Weekend Warrior
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: May 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The frame is great(better then Trek)Brakes are pretty good. Durable and trail ready
Weaknesses:
The shocks and the rims suck!! The seat is very hard! Bottom bracket is junk and the FD is not as smooth say as an LX, XT or an XTR!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hardrock
Bike Setup:
XT Front and Back, Specialiazed Comp Computer, Specialized Body Geometry Seat, System 1 pedals, Onyx Bar Ends, Salsa Moto One Stem, Specialize Wedgie Seat Pack
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great bike with a few upgrades it is ready to go for trials. Took it on the state park trials and it held up very nicely and it got full of so much mud and it still kept going! Great bike that is why i am giving it 5 flamin chilis and if you don't like it then upgrade it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Jones
a Cross Country Rider
from Midway, UT, USA Date Reviewed: April 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Dutchess Royl' (or anything with a variety of terrain.)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
1. The bike is very agile. It handles very well and is rather comfortable! I ride my friends' hardtails', and I always like to come back to the comfort of mine. 2. Good frame. 27 pounds. 7005 Aluminum. 3. Rock Shox, it's better than some shocks you get on lower priced bikes.
Weaknesses:
Components aren't the greatest. I've upgraded the brakes so far, but am in the process of getting new rims, spokes, and hubs. The original wheelset just couldn't take it. I'm thinking of upgrading the shock.
Bike Setup:
Shimano STX-RC drive train. Specialized Strongarm crank. Rock Shox Jett C fork. Weinmann rims(they suck).
Bottom Line:
A great handling and riding bike in all terrains. Great for commuting, and the shock in very reasonable for the price. It handles trails well, (feels a little harsh on the big bumps.) A very fun and comfortable frame. Upgradable components. A great bike for the price. A good bike for those who want great bike, but don't want to brake the bank.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chrisbo
a Weekend Warrior
from cleveland, OH, USA Date Reviewed: April 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The fair city streets and trails of East Cleveland
Stock stuff plus toe clips, lights and an extra-fancy little rubber horn so I can honk at people who get in my way.
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike. I've done a lot of riding on trails and "trails" in the woods and the bike handles great, even in snow and ice. I've always felt very stable, even on some very steep climbs on snowy trails. My rides to work in typical cleveland snow/ice storms are a little hairy, but that's only because cleveland drivers are pathetic. I only have two real problems. The seat which, I'm sure other people have made the same joke as I'm about to, is as hard as a rock, hence the bike's name. Also, there is a seam in the front rim that I'm quite sure is wearing down my front pads a little more than they deserve. This bike is ideal for a beginner "mountain" biker like me. If you buy this bike, get a damn good lock for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Airborne
a Cross Country Rider
from Birlington. Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
One that i'm not S'possed to be on
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
This is a great bike. I haven't had any problems with it yet at all. I changed the shocks to some Manitous,however, because I thought the Jetts weren't plush enough.
Weaknesses:
I don't like the shocks it comes with. I also changed the seat. I put riser bars and an Axiom headset on mine.
Similar Products Used:
None even compare!
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. It comes well suited to beginners, but can be easily upgraded
This is the HARD ROCK FROM HELL!!!! The Hard Rock A1 Comp FS is a great bike to buy on a budget and gradually upgrade as you go along. Now my $500 bike has better components than bikes costing over 3 times as much, so I really don't care if those uptight bourgoise Gary Fisher glam-boys scoff at my bike from afar, I know they are intimidated. Seriously, this bike has never failed on me. The stock BB was giving me problems after 6 months, so I replaced it. I thought the front of the bike was a little heavy, so I replaced the handlebar and stem - Big Difference! The tires had no grip, so I threw on the Enduros. Absolutely consider XT derailuers (f&r), Avid brakes, and new forks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Coletrain
a Weekend Warrior
from Barrington, RI Date Reviewed: January 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame Value Has all the base equipment of a loaded mtb
Weaknesses:
That base equipment is wanting for improvments Shock (RS Jett C) Crank (had to be replaced after first ride) Rims Breaks Clips and bars are aditional $$
You can't beat this value! OK so my Rims are out of wack already & you have to play with the breaks every time you go for a ride. The bottom line is for $500 this bike transformed me from a strictly pavment roadbike racer to an off-roader who can take this bike on any trail and keep up with the $2000 mt. bikes out there. If you are not (yet) a hardcore rider but want to get into the sport this bike is great. I might recoment spending the extra $100 for the low-end Rockhopper to start out, but I have no regrets about the purchase.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Kerrville, TX Date Reviewed: January 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
something not rocky
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good frame Good look
Weaknesses:
Brakes Tires Rims Shocks
Similar Products Used:
GT Rebound
Bottom Line:
Specialized should have not skipped corners on things, they should have spent $75 more and made it a lot better bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick Ancmon
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego. CA Date Reviewed: January 2, 2000
What a sweet bike for the money. Now is a great time to get a '99 bike. Got mine for $439 and it's loaded. Kicked the collective asses of Marlin(everything's cheap), GT rebound(heavy as hell), and Trek 4500. Had the stem replaced for no charge, now looks like Rockhopper's little brother, front shocks are weak but oh well. NO problems yet but I anticipate bent rims sooner than later. Great frame to build off of. Overall I am extremely satisfied, and highly recommend this bike which = 5 flamin' coyote terds
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Downhiller
from CA Date Reviewed: December 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
mt snow
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
as it came
Bottom Line:
one great bike you got to try this one
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taylor parsons
a Cross-Country Rider
from s.c. CA Date Reviewed: December 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
new melones
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
handle bar, cranks,brakes, geometry, looks
Weaknesses:
weak shocks,rock shox jett c
Similar Products Used:
n/a
Bike Setup:
as it came, havn't had to replace anything yet
Bottom Line:
This bike is great for both on and off road riding,as you get more serios with racing you should replace fork, stem, and rims from start to finish this bike rode smooth.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike W.
a Weekend Warrior
from Upland California Date Reviewed: December 1, 1999
Rock Shox Jett-C fork, Velociraptor tires, suspension seatpost.
Bottom Line:
I like this bike very much, it's a bit weighty compared to some higher priced bikes but not by much. I take this bike on super technical singletracks, fire-roads, jumps..etc. No major problems yet. The rims definately don't stay straight for long. I have had a year of great mountainbiking on this bike, and I would recomend it to people looking for a nice bike in the $500 price range.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ERIK BRYAN
a Weekend Warrior
from TAMPA,FLORIDA Date Reviewed: November 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
MORRIS BRIDGE SWAMP AREA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
GREAT FRAME.AND CRANKS
Weaknesses:
REAR DERAILER A LITTLE SLUGGISH .FACTORY PEDELS
Similar Products Used:
TREK,CANNONDALE f1000
Bike Setup:
stx hardware/rock shox front suspension
Bottom Line:
for the price this bike rocks ass, was about to buy the cannondale f1000 but for alot less dough i got a bike that may weigh a little more but it is a solid bike, after a few hard rides in the swamp.and no bent rims.im satisfied. has good get up and go.and it looks like a expensive bike to the avrage joe anyway the crome finish has all my buddies bluffed anyway.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marcelo tartari
a Weekend Warrior
from são paulo - brazil Date Reviewed: November 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Similar Products Used:
caloi aluminun
Bottom Line:
não há críticas
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ricko
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: October 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Dagmar, Don Valley, Hardwood Hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The rider, frame, handle bars
Weaknesses:
all the componets, change them if you're going to do any serious riding
Bike Setup:
xtr brakes, xtr brakes/grear shifters combo, ritchy clipless peddles, 2 xtr bottle holders, a xtr bell, with tennis balls in the front spokes
Bottom Line:
Great bike, ride the hell out of it and get good use of the components that came with it. Then up grade them as you need to, depending on your budget I would up grade to xt parts. The bike looks great and the babes love it, I've never got laid so much in my life before I got this bike. Don't know what makes me more exhausted the hills or the babes. Right now I'm looking to change the front forks to a Judy or Sid, but being they cost $400-$800Cdn I'll need to buy a used one or a hot one. Spending $800 on a fork to me is very dumb, might as well spend another $800 and get a new $1600 bike or get one that's used or hot. Anyways for the money spent on this bike in $cdn is well worth it, you want to have fun riding your bike on the trails not worrying about how much money you sank into the bike every time you go down or crash. Unless your on a sponsored team then by all means ride that $3000-$5000 bike and trash it on the trails. But the number of angry riders I see on the trails with bikes upto that price range that has either bent or broke a component is terrible. Now they have to dish out more $$$$ to replace them and you don't want to replace something of lower quality than the one your bike came with right???So if you don't have allot of big bucks to spend on a bike, or if you do and you're smart and want a good all around starter bike for under a grand then test ride this bike!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
icebiker
a Weekend Warrior
from Brussels Date Reviewed: October 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
the muddier the better
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
handling color tires great geometry
Weaknesses:
maybe the front derailleur brakes dont do so well
Similar Products Used:
scott and giant stuff Rockhopper (still pricy)
Bike Setup:
A1 FS standard
Bottom Line:
Great first bike for the allround biker. Good price/quality. if you don't know what bike you want, check this one out. if you have more money to spend however, I'd recommend the rockhopper.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Peo, IL Date Reviewed: September 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Allows great transfer of energy to the ground. Very inpressed with climbing and control
Weaknesses:
Sorry I couldn't find any. For the $ it is the best. $500.00 closeout price 6/99
Bottom Line:
Beginner to intermed will not be disapointed! A very good product that compares to many $800 to $1500 bikes
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
smc
a Weekend Warrior
from ft.myers,fl Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
price,frame geometry
Weaknesses:
components
Similar Products Used:
trek,gt,
Bottom Line:
this is just a update to my earlier review, first I have not been able to really take this bike off-road to any real trails and all ready the wheels have been re-trued (twice) ,I have had to replace the bottem bracket and the headset and while I had the headset off I noticed that the head tube had not been finished off flush, It looked like someone had taken a hacksaw to it, so I took it to a local schwinn dealer and they fixed it for me. Pretty cool considering that I did not buy the bike from them. If your wondering why I did not take it back to the dealer that I bought the bike from they were closed for vacation . Also , One of the main reasons I bought this bike is because I had heard nothing but good things about Specialized and then this happens. If anyone else has this problem email me . I am in the process of notifing Specialized.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C Smith
a Cross-Country Rider
from OKC,OK Date Reviewed: September 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bluff Creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
weight,handling, and appearance-good base to work up from
A1 Comp FS with Mustang rims, XT hubs, Shimano clipless pedals,5 degree stem, Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires, Bobke Prayer Stix, GT barends and XT cassette, chain & bottom bracket
Bottom Line:
The A1 is a great bike with good handling. The stem is the first thing that needs to go. It is too tall for the leverage needed to hop, wheelie, etc. I recommend changing the wheels as soon as possible. The Weinmanns are soft and do not hold their form well(check out the reviews). The Mustangs are a new addition and as far as I can tell thus far, they will be strong wheels and the XT hubs spin much longer than the Stouts. I have ridden the bike in just about every condition possible and it always keeps on going. It climbs wonderfully and is very easy to throw around. The Panaracer tires are wonderful in hard packed trails that are getting dusty from the dry summer and grip in the corners much better than the stock models. They're red and black sidewalls look really cool on the silver version also.I had to replace the bottom bracket after about ten rides. Specialized makes many of their own products to save money, but this particular piece sucks so the shop put in an XT for a total of $8. I have heard that it is a common problem on this bike. Look into getting Lizard Skins for your chainstay, the chain likes to bite into it quite often. If you are looking to get an entry level bike with great potential then this is it. This bike is a great all-around performer that upgrades into a fast, nimble, good looking ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johnboy
a Weekend Warrior
from Warner Robins Date Reviewed: August 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
great price,good componets,and pretty light and rider friendly.I feel like I got a hell of a deal for $419.99 in Atlanta
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
tested and checked out Trek 6000 and Garry fisher Tassajara
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I am perfectly happy with the bike. The only complaint is that I had to go out of town to get this bike at such a deal.Awesome bike for the beginner or advanced with a few modifications
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Colton, CA Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Nice, light frame, very nice polished aluminum finish, heavy duty crankset, Jett C forks are decent, great value!!!
Weaknesses:
Alivio front and STX-RC rear deraileurs, brakes, bottom bracket (bolts are constantly loose and lock-tite doesn't help)
Similar Products Used:
none considered
Bike Setup:
Great frame to start, added '99 Avid Arch Rival front brake, '99 XT rear brake/front & rear deraileurs/brake levers/shifters, HyperLite handlebar, NukeProof stem, EnduroRaptor tires. I'm working on Sun rims and Marzocchi forks.
Bottom Line:
Great entry-level bike. The frame is a great basis to build a comp level bike as you go. I replaced a lot of things to customize the bike to my liking - not because any of these parts failed. I recommend this bike!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
smc
a Weekend Warrior
from Ft.Myers,Fl. Date Reviewed: August 16, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Price,weight,looks
Weaknesses:
rims suck,front derailier is terrible
Similar Products Used:
trek,gary fisher,moongoose,gt
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money, I shopped around and this was the best deal and seemed to be the lightest. With a few upgrades this bike will be sweeeet!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
victor
a Weekend Warrior
from SF Date Reviewed: August 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
none
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
easy to move, rides fast, brakes quick, turns sharp, and most important it's comfortable...it's just like the rockhopper
Weaknesses:
none so far
Bike Setup:
hard rock a1 comp fs
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike...for cross country, downhill riding, off road biking...it's the best i've every ridden...and i rode a lot of bikes
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon McGee
a Weekend Warrior
from Cambridge, UK Date Reviewed: August 6, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light weight smooth ride pretty cheap for the specs
Weaknesses:
brake/tyre fit on jett c rock shox
Similar Products Used:
trek 4500
Bike Setup:
jett c rock shox
Bottom Line:
Good solid but light bike but one major criticism and its not a minor detail. Basically when you want to drop out the front wheel (ie for locking it to the back) the brakes don't release far enough which means you can't drop the wheel out. So basically leave it attached unless you want to fiddle with tools all the time - its a major pain and its really raised my stress levels. Anyone had a similar problem or solution please mail me because a perfectly good bike otherwise is gonna get a kickin' and i don't want to do that! other than that its a fine bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jayhawk
a Cross-Country Rider
from memphis Date Reviewed: August 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
rondevue xc ski trails in montana
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
frame,value,brakes,shifters(stx are rare on $500 dollar bikes)
Weaknesses:
RIMS, shox are weak
Similar Products Used:
trek 930,trek 830,rockhopper, lots of bikes
Bike Setup:
regular setup w/ jett C shox
Bottom Line:
great bike for the $money$ rides great!I give it 5 chilles
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KS
a Cross-Country Rider
from Atlanta Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great frame... very sturdy. Very good components for the price. very light for the price.
Weaknesses:
Rims, brakes.
Similar Products Used:
Various Mongoose bikes.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike for a simple reason.... its MINE! I just wish Specialized had put better rims on it, and better tires too!! Oh yeah, the bike does tend to shudder a bit when pushed in a high gear. On the plus side.... this bike really light and the frame is very sturdy. And hey, very few $500 bikes come with STX-RC components...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from Bethesda, MD Date Reviewed: July 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Avalon at Patapsco Park, MD
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great bike for your money! Looks!
Weaknesses:
Rims
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Very light for the US$460 that I spent on it with an upgrade on the saddle included (TFI-Liberator). I have used this bike on easy trials to very technical ones from about three months now, and about twice a week. The only problem that I noticed right after my first ride is that my rear rim bent...I took it to my LBS and they trued it back at no charge since it was part of the warranty. Unfortunately, it has come out of true again and this time I think I'll upgrade the wheels for stiffer ones. Perhaps, I should have mentioned that I weight about 215...perhaps not! Overall, GO FOR IT if you'd like to play with it by upgrading it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tony becerra
a Weekend Warrior
from covina ca Date Reviewed: June 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anytrail
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
great price light good components
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
gt agressor
Bike Setup:
out the box no upgrades
Bottom Line:
hell of a bike for what i paid 432.00 out the door. rox shox jett c shimano str rear alivio frnt.a lot more bike for the money than any other in the market. gt aggresor same price cheap components and heavy as hell. specialized rocks. happy trails
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Street Pizza
a Weekend Warrior
from Huntington Beach, CA Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Trails at Aliso Creek
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Solid Frame, nice clear coated aluminum finish (I actually put 2 coats of wax on it) Just a few upgrades and you have a really good bike.
Weaknesses:
Rims, Front Derailleur
Bottom Line:
Dumped on the maiden voyage and the front was beyond repair. Replaced with cheap 99' LX/Mavic138 wheelset for $110. Front Alivio derailleur s u c k s...soon to be replaced with XT (only $22 what the hell). I would rate this bike at 4.5 if I could. I got it at a good price(I hope) of $479 out the door.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay Banerjee
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: June 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
St. Josephs Hill, Los Gatos, CA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Aluminum Frame Great Price Overall Sturdy Bike
Weaknesses:
The wheels cannot withstand my jumps. I do weigh 190lbs though!!
Bottom Line:
I have thrashed this bike for the past few months and it takes a beating and has yet to let me down. I will say however, the wheels bend easily. It's probably cause I jump the bike more than I should. Overall, this is a great bike. I have thought about upgrading the shifting components, but other than that, this bike for the price, kicks ass.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Camper
a Cross-Country Rider
from Salisbury, Maryland Date Reviewed: May 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Salisbury Zoo
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great Frame Good Beginner Bike
Weaknesses:
Rims That's about it
Bike Setup:
Rock Shock Jett
Bottom Line:
This is my first bike since I had my Bridgestone back in the day. Great bike for the money and I suggest buying this bike and upgrading gradually Great paint too. Buy two :-)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Meng
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto,Ontario Date Reviewed: May 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This bike is solid .Outta all the bikes i tested this one was the best all around.looks great (solar orange),rigid frame, good components in this price range ($700.00 cnd),fairly light.Well worth upgrading and the indy c isn't as bad as i though it would be. Compared to the RST 381 the RS rides like a Lexus.
Weaknesses:
Hard to get the front end off the ground for hops or jumps. it's not heavy but it seems like geometry.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6000,Iron Horse ARS 2.0,Trek 830&930, Raliegh M80,Gaint Warp,GT Rebound,Norco Bigfoot,Moosegoose. and others
Bottom Line:
For $700(cnd) + tax i couldn't find another bike that rode as nice,looked as good and was as well equipted. The closest was the Trek 6000.If you see a Comp FS and the price is right BUY IT or it'll be gone!!! in the T.O area check out bike depot on yonge st the guy (Conor) is honest and helpful.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MisterSwing
a cross-country rider
from Bay Area, California Date Reviewed: February 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
Simple minded being my nature I decided to settle for the HardRock A1 Front Suspension. My original settlement was for the $1400.00 FSR Stumpjumper, but hey that can wait. I went for the 15 frame cuz it suited my height 5'8 (172 cm.) The Rock Shox Jett is actually not bad. It does the job for a simple minded trail rider like me. The aluminum colored finish looks great. It makes me feel like a champion. I thought the total: $514.00 (U.S dollars) price tag fitted my budget. I'm not wealthy, but rich in heart. I find myself chuckling at some of the others carrying their $1000.00+ state-of-the-art race machines as I pass them by. But I don't mind the few ugly glances for I just continue sipping on my camelback and ride on... I give my machine 5 chillies. The truth is I haven't ridden for 7 years. My last bike was a Huffy. That I didn't like, but this HardRock I love.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a commuter
a weekend warrior
from Tokyo Date Reviewed: January 18, 1999
Bottom Line:
I'm using this bike everyday for commute. Nice *Full aluminium *good Geometory for normal peoples(not racer) *Simple frame design Worth *Phoney bralelever and Grip I don't know good or bad *Price in japan(\95000=$850),How much in U.S.?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hagar
a weekend warrior
from Southern CA Date Reviewed: November 16, 1998
Bottom Line:
Let's get this mother started, eh? Overall, this bike kicks butt! The frame is light and well proportioned, the headset (Aheadset) is decent, the Jett forks are not bad for low-end suspension forks. Full on aluminum everywhere (seatpost, handlebar, stem). The only gripe I have is with the drivetrain - the Alivio front derailleur sucks ass and I don't like the STX-RC rear derailleur (see my review). They are being replaced with XT front/rear deraileurs, and eventually a Kore stem. For the price, you get a friggin awesome bike with potential. Dude, don't buy a Rockhopper for $700, just get the Hard Rock for $500 and do the upgrades as you go! Hell yeah!
Overall Rating:
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