Submitted by
Theodore Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle, Wa Date Reviewed: September 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Rio Grande Nature Trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
Wheel Sport
Strengths:
Durable (Tank-like), Performance to Price Ratio, Comfortable, Dependability, Value, Handles well, Frame is almost indestructible under normal trailriding conditions, Steel frame soaks up bumps and vibrations
Weaknesses:
OEM Rims come out of true alot, Jett C Fork was not the greatest even in it's prime, Acera Front Derailleur sucked, OEM seat was a torture device, OEM tubes were extremely paper-thin and worthless.
Similar Products Used:
05 Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Mavic Crossland Wheelset XT front and rear derailleur 2005 LX Crankset and BB Ritchey Headset Specialized Milano Seat (replaced 2000 Specialized BG) 2005 Manitou Skareb Elite Fork Cateye Mitty 3 Computer
Bottom Line:
This bike was best deal for the money ($319). I bought this bike in 1999 while a broke starving college student as my only form of transportation. The bike has never let me down during the last 5 five years. The original components lasted over 4.5 years and 3,500 miles with minimal maintenance with no issues aside from flats. I haved heavily upgraded this bike because I absolutely love this machine! Before it rode like a champ, but with all the upgrades it now rides like a dream. The steel frame acts as a form of suspension and it's hard to beat the comfort and durability of this bike. I weigh 225-235 lbs and ride railroad tracks, trails, and XC. I have consistently rode this bike, when I wasn't deployed, over 100 miles per week for 3 years. I write this review because I don't ever think that there will be another bike of this caliber for the money(especially a steel frame). This bike is an old friend! To me, Specialized Hardrock is synonymous with value, durability, and quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler
a Cross Country Rider
from State College, PA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Shop
Strengths:
The frame was rock solid-I put it through a year of central PA's rocky singletrack, as well as 2 weeks of CO and UT's finest singletrack. I never had to replace the stem or handlebars (for maintenence reasons).
Weaknesses:
Components suck. The first set of pedals I got with the bike were broken in a week. Brake levers, brakes, bb, and drive train all needed to be replaced at one point or another. The Jett fork becomes dead weight in the cold, and doesn;t soak up very much impact even in its prime.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike can take anything you throw at it. It is a good idea to replace all of the components and then you're in good shape. This should really be used as an entry level bike; it is too heavy for performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christopher Van Hulsentop
a Downhiller
from Townsville, Queensland, Australia Date Reviewed: February 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Douglas
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Toyworld
Strengths:
VALUE, looks
Weaknesses:
Frame Cracked near the head tube damn near snapped the thing, fork travel, rim strength, pedals (snapped in half when i went off a drop), Stem Length, seat rips instantly when you stack
Similar Products Used:
1999 Giant Boulder SE
Bike Setup:
now it is welded, deore crank (single speed) ourys, amoeba DH handlebars, odyssey twisted team pedals, mavic rims
Bottom Line:
awesome for value and even better with some upgrades, but it cant keep up with constant downhilling
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a
from New Mexico Date Reviewed: January 22, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
friends house
Strengths:
-Frame strength-I've beat the life out of this offroad in New Mexico and it hasn't been bent and barely scratched. -Stem-It's pretty stiff to be a stock stem. -Tires-Supersoft Specialized! I've had this bike in some low turns and they have never slipped.
Weaknesses:
Luckily the frame flexes because the fork doesn't. The rims bite a**. Don't go off anything over one foot or so without planning on bending those rims.
Bike Setup:
Mosh pedals (don't buy these.)
Bottom Line:
I wish there were better components on this bike. It took a while to get the derailleurs alligned. I have to allign the brakes everytime I ride as well. Sturdy frame and light for being Cr-Mo. It wants to go fast and I'm happy with that. It's a good entry level bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zoot Adler
a Cross Country Rider
from Barnet, VT USA Date Reviewed: December 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kingdom Trails, E. Burke VT
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$417.00
Purchased At:
Littleton Bike Shop, NH
Strengths:
This bike has been able to keep up with me since i got it when i had never mtbiked before, until now, when, on a good day, i get some air, rip some switchbacks, jump some logs, fall on some rocks, get sideways in some roots, and think to myself while i am doing it: god i love this bike.
Weaknesses:
-shock is a good one to learn on, cuz now, after years of 48mm, i ride someone's 80 mm sid and think: this is too damn easy! -its true, i have replaced the back wheel twice in 3 yrs, once from bouncing over a curb (hard, and with all my weight on the back wheel) and the other after a party and letting other people ride my bike off a big jump we built -grips are too soft/squishy, -saddle clamp on seatpost had to be replaced 2wice, once w/ specialized stock, and then with ritchey one -kinda heavy compared to most good quality hardtails, but if you get good on this bike, when you get a light one, you will kick ass -elastometers turn shock into 5 lbs rigid fork when the temp drops below 40 degrees
Similar Products Used:
none, this is my first mtb
Bike Setup:
all stock cept: time clipless pedals (fabulous) ritchey grip shift sized grips (adequate) seatpost clamp
Bottom Line:
i'll try not to become too emotional as i write, but i love my bike. its seen me through many, many miles of single track, and with minimal upkeep by me, who isn't really into mechanical stuff. i have been using WD-40 on the chain for 2.5 years until i just recently switched to White lightning at the urging of my riding partners and it has made a huge difference in shifting performance. I don't care what anyone says, i love my grip shift. I know, the sad day will come when i finally break my frame, and will be forced to get a new bike, and it won't have grip shift, but i'll cope. i doubt many shops are still selling this bike, but if they are, and you are researching buying this bike as a first time ride, then research no more. your bike for the next decade is here, in all the glory of ten flaming catipillers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Gulzow
a Cross Country Rider
from Fruitland, ID USA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
baldy
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$275.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Good frame, light weight, cool colors, comfortable stile
Weaknesses:
weak rims
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
if i was to go to buy anouther bike i think i would rather up grade my specilized instead. I love the bike, execpt for the twist shifters even though they wook good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christopher Van Hulsentop
a Downhiller
from Townsville, Queensland, Australia Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mount Louisa
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Toys R Us Townsville
Strengths:
not many but you cant expect much from a bike at this price range
Weaknesses:
too light to handle much jumping and the back wheel is extremely weak
Similar Products Used:
1999 Giant Boulder SE
Bike Setup:
pretty good but i recomend a few upgrades 1. Amoeba DH handlebars 2. Tioga Factory DH tires 3. Oury Grips
Bottom Line:
a pretty sweet bike for one in this price range some wider handlebars seem to help it with jumping is very good for someone like me who cant afford the better bikes
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis Dales
a Cross Country Rider
from Cornwall, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Brockville back country
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
Pawn shop
Strengths:
Frame is excellent. Stiff but pliable. Definetely worth an upgrade. One of the lasr race worthy como farames at this price point.
Weaknesses:
Well, at this price point what can you expect? A Psylo on the front? Forget it.
Similar Products Used:
Everything under the sun: Specail, GT, Gary Fisher, Peugeot, Norco, etc. All hardtails which are the only bikes worth riding.
Bike Setup:
Just bought the 99 iteration of the hardrock used so haven't had time to upgrade or change much yet. My original 96 Hardrock was stolen after 1000 bucks worth of upgrades. That's how much I love this bike.
Bottom Line:
Nowadays a bike line is going to live or die by its riders. The hardrock fs is one of the last true believers. In a way, the Hardrock is probably an anachronism from the early 90's when every mtb company saw cromoly steel as the road to heaven. At that time it was. Yet Specialized didn't stop believing in steel. The Hardrock is probable the last double butted cromo frame that (aside from the really high end stuff) you can get for the price and with a few upgrades still race. I love the stretched out feel of this bike which hasn't changed since I lost my 96 version. This bike is very very light. Put a Manitou xvert or Judy XC on the front with some rapidfire shifters and you ready to go. Some would say the price isn't worth it. But this frame demands it. I like All of Specializeds other stuff a lot, but nothing gets to me like the little engine that could.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob C
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, FL USA Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Santos,TOE,Hardrock,Reddick
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
UBC Tampa FL
Strengths:
Strong Frame, Has held up to alot of abuse. Simple reliable frame design. Clean Lines
Weaknesses:
Not the best components, to be expected on a budget bike. Have had to replace almost everything except frame, stem. Still I would not give this bike up. I have put the components I like on it and it rides as strong as ever. Have over a $1000.00 in it now, some say that is stupid could have bought a better bike, but this one has been through alot with me and will continue to do so.
Similar Products Used:
None - Love mine
Bike Setup:
Hardrock, Rolf Satalite wheel set, XT rear, Marzzochi Z3 Long Travel, Some other borrowed components. Just call it Frank-en-cycle. It's a beast
Bottom Line:
Great frame, low end components, Will have a long relationship if your willing to replace a few things. Love my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
justin w
a Racer
from ri Date Reviewed: May 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Great bike, nice parts, i dont have many troubles with it.
Weaknesses:
i broke one of the pedals, bent rims
Similar Products Used:
many others
Bike Setup:
manitou fs suspension, upgraded to steel pedals, put on clips
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price, i would not hesitate to recommend this bike to anyone, i weigh about 180 lbs and the only thing i have had trouble with is bending the rims, i have bent 3 rims in a year and a half, although i am a hard rider. a few minor things have broken too, like the pedals i hit a rock and the plastic part broke, but they are easily upgradable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TL
a Cross Country Rider
from Wilton, CT Date Reviewed: May 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Pequonny Valley
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$380.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Dynamics Bike Shop
Strengths:
VERY, VERY, Durable....nice colors....fast...in my mind the best bike you could get new for the money....good for bikers from just starting to an intermediate rider!
Weaknesses:
fork a little heavy and stiff...could use a better rear derailer...rims a little weak
Similar Products Used:
Hardrock A1 fs, Scwhinn Moab
Bike Setup:
1999 Hardrock Fs, 2000 Manitou Magnum shocks, shimano XT shifters
Bottom Line:
Great Bike...it has held up for 3 years of pure torture from me..great cross-country bike for just about anyone..prob best for anyone under 190..would reccomend to any1
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph Turner
a Weekend Warrior
from Dahlonega, GA, USA Date Reviewed: March 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Turner Creek Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Kinnucan's of Columbus, GA
Strengths:
Strong and durable. I've taken some hard spills and have only had to replace the front rim. At 210lbs. it takes anything that I can throw at it. I always get compliments on it's looks. The paint scheme is cool (silver and green).
Weaknesses:
The rear derailer; I've finally bent it so I can justify replacing it. The rims could be better and the seat was the first thing to go.
Similar Products Used:
An old Trek (passed down through the generations at Camp Casey, Korea).
Bike Setup:
Stock except for a Body geometry saddle and Salsa bar ends.
Bottom Line:
A great bike which I would buy again. Heavier riders will like it's strength and everyone else the price. I plan on upgrading the front shock soon; not because it has failed me but just to start upgrading. This is a great bike, hands down. Anyone who expects performance at a price will buy this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad
a Weekend Warrior
from Bowsman, Manitoba, Canada Date Reviewed: March 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Karst Spring
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
Georges Cycle
Strengths:
Strong Frame,awesome color schemes. Rock Shox Jett works really well. This bike feels really light on its feet.
Weaknesses:
Shifters, Rims(bent my back rim two weeks after I bought it), seat is really hard. The shifters need to be adjusted frequently.
Similar Products Used:
1998 Sportech hardtail.
Bike Setup:
Stock. I am planning on getting a set of Sun Mammoth Rims and a Rock Shox Psylo XC front suspension fork.
Bottom Line:
A really good bike for the money. People who are just starting mountain biking should by this bike! Advanced mountain bikers could purchase this bike, but would have to spend some exrta moola for better rims, suspension fork,shifters,ect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Downhiller
from James Madison University, Virginia Date Reviewed: January 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mud Pond Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
Mole Hill Bikes
Strengths:
The Frame is solid!
Weaknesses:
Grip Shifts, Specialized Factory Tires, Rear Deraileur locks up in mud, etc.
Similar Products Used:
GT Aggressor, Specilized Stumpjumper FS-1, Gary Fisher Wahoo
Bike Setup:
First purchase: a pair of Panaracer Firecracker tires; Upgraded to Shimano Rapid Fire shifters within 2 months of initial purchase, all else stock, including the all to often under-rated Rock Shox JETT!
Bottom Line:
My 2000 HardRock is the ultimate bang for your buck, folks! I plan on replacing that rear deraileur in the near future. I will ABSOLUTELY be hanging on to that JETT front suspension. -My friends have spent more time criticising the thing, but I have been nothing but completely pleased with its performance overall. I will not replace it until it blows out. The frame is super strong and fairly light weight. It is however, heavy enough to maintain adequate stability on the downhill. This bike is fast, Fast, FAST! I gaurentee if you purchase one, you will be completely, and perhaps surprisingly satisfied. I love it and would recommend it to any beginers or intermediate level riders. It is a great bike that you can upgrade when you have the time or money! The factory components will stand up to all your abuse. Specialized, by far, makes the finest entry-level, front suspension bikes available for under $500.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ben brady
a
from Ames, IA,, US Date Reviewed: January 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Bike World
Strengths:
Almost indestructable cromo frame, reliable ride, best bike for the price I have ever come across
Weaknesses:
Shimano A rear derailler works until it gets the least bit dirty then the problems start. Stock Rock Shox Jett C is junk
Similar Products Used:
trek 7000
Bike Setup:
Avid SD 25 brakes, Manitou SXr, body geometry comp. saddle
Bottom Line:
You won't find a better entry level bike for the money, and you can grow with the bike as far as your $$ for component upgrades can take you. Specialized makes quality frames, so you pay a little in shoddy components, but put nice ones on and you can make this an amazing bike. A good idea for mostly beginners, but anyone can appreciate the value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bernardo Marino
a Cross Country Rider
from Monterrey, N.L., MEXICO Date Reviewed: January 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Chipinque
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Tekno Bike
Strengths:
Very, very strong and resistant frame. Great frame colors (mine is red and black) Most of this bike's components are Specialized, so obviously they work really good, such as the aluminum stem and handlebar, and the seatpost. Brake levers and brakes work fine, if you give them the right maintenance. Not heavy; actually, if you're fit, you won't even think about weight. If you AREN'T fit, then you will complain about the bike, and say that it's heavy. Do you think that if you had an aluminum or titanium bike, it would be a lot easier climbing a steep hill, if you aren't fit?
Weaknesses:
Obviously you can't expect the derailleurs and other components to work like stuff that is on racing bikes.
Similar Products Used:
None. (This is my first REAL mountainbike)
Bike Setup:
Diamondback barends.
Bottom Line:
I suppose this bike is meant for "occasional mountainbikers", or "weekend warriors". I don't consider myself an "average mountainbiker". I ride everyday. I use this bike as if it were a competition bike. I ride it everyday, and not only on a paved street or an easy trail; I've ridden it MANY times (almost always) on real technical stuff, gravel, sand, loose terrain, mud, wet conditions, downhill, real steep climbs. Most of all, this is a great bike for adventuring and exploring the mountains; you can go to distant places, and trust that it will handle almost anything. Buy it if you want a good bike, but don't want a competition rig of about $900.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gustavo Gutiérrez
a Weekend Warrior
from Colima, Colima, Mexico Date Reviewed: November 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Sun Bike
Strengths:
The weight is even better than some aluminium bikes here in Mexico; the brakes are kool; its geometry (it's a 15) is just the best for on/off-road.
Weaknesses:
The tires are fine for an urban assault, but they don't work as top-line tires in sand or mud; the seat starts making noises after 1/2 a year, and it's not comfortable.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose, a Magistroni (not good mexican bike, it really sucks compared to this one)
Bike Setup:
Prima Titanium seat, Tranz-X handlebar extensions.
Bottom Line:
Although I haven't ride lots of top-line bikes, some freinds have lend me their bikes and I can say that this one is one of the best ones of all the bikes around here. It's a state-of-the-art bike for uphills, and it works great on downhills.
Buy it if you want the best initial bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
don
a Cross Country Rider
from n.a., mass., u.s.a. Date Reviewed: November 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
from a friend
Strengths:
strong frame, componets after brokin in
Weaknesses:
stock shocks suck
Similar Products Used:
to many
Bike Setup:
azonic double wall pyrimad riser bar, kore headset, primo pedals, gt bmx seat, ati grips, new shox on the way.
Bottom Line:
is a awsome bike after brokin in alot of tuning when new. it climbs o.k. could be a/ot better on that note though other than that i love the bike. i would suggest buying it if you are a beginner or slihtly advanced (chane the shocks and you'll love it)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gerry
a Racer
from San Jose Date Reviewed: November 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Walt's Cycles
Strengths:
Frame
Weaknesses:
Shifters, derailers, seat
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale, Trek
Bike Setup:
Wellgo MTB pedals, Specialized BodyGeometry Seat, everthing else is stock.
Bottom Line:
I've had mine since 1997 and it looks like nothing has changed. For the price it has an excellent chro-moly frame. upgrading a little from stock is the way to go. It's a great little thrasher bike for commuting or if you want to get a little mud between the ears. I've enjoyed it tremendously. Now, I'm a roadie and only use this bike for running errands. I give this bike high marks for value, but it gets the low marks for all the junkie components which still has some problems. Shifters and derailers don't shift properly into the gears (you gotta play with it a little to get it right which really isn't good if your racing a buddy). The stock seat gave me "numb nuts". Overall, if you'd like a great low prices bike that you can upgrade some of it's components this is the one to get. If you want a mountain/billy goat, look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, Oregon Date Reviewed: September 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$410.00
Strengths:
Easy handling, smooth riding steel frame. I am a grip shift fan. Beautiful mirror blue finish. Reliable once broken in.
Weaknesses:
Required numerous mechanical adjustments when new. Chain needs to be lubed before almost every ride to maintain easy shifting. Uncomfortable stock seat.
Bike Setup:
Stock with body geometry saddle upgrade.
Bottom Line:
An excellent inexpensive mountain bike. Does everything well. The standard Hardrockr tires ride smoothly on pavement. At the time of purchase was one of the few bikes in it's price category that had grip shift and adjustable shocks. Very smooth riding steel frame. Buy one from a dealer that offers free adjustments-you will probably need them. This is a great bike for anyone who wants to get into mountain biking on the cheap! I have ridden mine everywhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Micah
a Weekend Warrior
from Westboro, MA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Loon Mtn. XC trails and Vineyard
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great grip shifters, smooth ride compared to no shocks, great looks, color matches my fiancee's bike (Stump XC FSR)
Weaknesses:
Could use a better shock. I weigh 125, so I am not sure how smooth the ride would be with a heavy weight.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is my first bike and I am having fun. I will probably upgrade next year after I get the hang of more technical riding. I think it is great for a beginner and I only paid $299 :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Kennedy
a Cross Country Rider
from Worcester, MA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Inexpensive, Solid components all around, great frame. The no-name V brakes are incredible! Great forged aluminum stem and handlebars.
Weaknesses:
None of the components are wonderful either (but what do you expect for <$400). Can't replace chain rings, crankset is rivited together.
I've been riding this beat for over 3 months now and I beat the hell out of it. I take 3 foot drops all the time, have taken it down some really steep and rocky stuff (and ridden up it). This bike really can handle anything and I ONLY PAID $350 FOR IT!!! It's obviously not the lightest thing out there but its by no means heavy! This bike is a good climber. I have had only two minor problems with the bike since I've owned it. The Saddle rails bent 2 month into it. Also after a month and a half of riding I started getting puncture flats every 3 seconds in my rear tire. So I took it to the shop and had them velox tape the rim. Problem solved... and that's IT!! No cheap plastic parts on this bike like some of the competitors sub $450 offerings. I bought a new crankset because I bent the stock big ring to hell attempting to hop onto stuff made of concrete and brick. It wasn't happy when I mashed and landed on the big ring many times. So now I have a Chain God to protect my new crankset. (Like I mentioned earlier, you can't replace the rings on the stock cranks, they were heavy anyway.) I've heard many people complain about the rims (Weinmann 519) and how they suck. I must be lucky because I gaurentee that I beat them as hard or harder than you and they're still true and haven't cracked yet. They *will* be my next upgrade but they've served me well so far.
BOTTOM LINE: Incredible bike, a great entry level bike that will let you do serious mountain biking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
B. H.
a Cross Country Rider
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: July 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Grouse Moutain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Looks good, feels good between the legs...you can throw it around quite easy. Best off the rack bike you can get.
Weaknesses:
Rims are junk!!! I wasted mine within two weeks.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Fire Mountain
Bike Setup:
Factory/ but switched two Mavic wheels and RockShox Jett XC
Bottom Line:
Can't find anything like it, within its price range. I will buy specialized again!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Wibben
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, California, USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Los Gatos Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The looks are fabulous. I have the blue and silver. You can not beat the price for all the options and appearance. Fun and stable.
Weaknesses:
Little to heavy, but I'm 6'4" @ 280 lbs, I need something strong to hold me up. Grip shifting is a "Catch 22" , good for around the paved park trails, but terrible when going up and down hills and having to shift and hang on all at the sametime.
Similar Products Used:
First bike since my K-Mart special Huffy back in 7th grade, 11 years ago.
Bike Setup:
Factory set up except, for new extra padded seat to protect the long term effect on mens private parts.
Bottom Line:
For the money I love it. If I did not have to buy a $300 Burley Kids Trailer for my adorable little girl,Nataschia, I would have bought the Rock Hopper, instead. But the Hard Rock is a fun, good deal, with awesome looks and dependability. All I do is tow my daughter around on local paved trails to get some exercise. If you want to look good, but not spend a fortune, I recommend the Hard Rock. This is a great all around bike. I give lots of respect to something that can carry 280lbs around @ 15-30mph. Good luck shopping around, but definetly give this bike a ride around the block.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ra
a Cross Country Rider
from NYCity, NY USA Date Reviewed: June 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
affordability coupled with good components. great steel frame (nothing beats steel in all around performance). I've added a cargo rack and used it will a kiddy trailer.
Weaknesses:
weight, weight, weight. don't care much 'cuz I don't bunny hop on busy streets but hell on climbs. The flip side is that the weight actually keeps the bike very stable in low and high speeds.
Similar Products Used:
Dirt ReSearch K-versions.
Bike Setup:
factory/store specifications
Bottom Line:
if you're mainly a hardcore commuter get this bike. Thieves don't like it don't much. And it'll do what you'll tell it to do. You might have to change the stem or all a suspension but that's all there is. Out of the store the chain needs some major lube job (mainly because it's been sitting in the store for some time). If you want something not too high tech, have little $ to spare and just need something to get around town on (quick) without worrying about it ... get this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aleks
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago IL Date Reviewed: June 5, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Price and handling
Weaknesses:
Shocks, Derailers, rims, tires, wieght
Similar Products Used:
1st Real bike I've gotten my dad's hand me down bianchi(heavy as hell)
Bike Setup:
I'm gettin new LX shimano derailers and a jett race fork soon =)
Bottom Line:
Good bike 4 the money you HAVE to get new derailers and new shocks if you wanna do ANYTHING off road with it. TIRES POPED ON ME THE 3rd DAY I HAD THEN MUST CHANGE!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mac
a Weekend Warrior
from oakland,ca Date Reviewed: March 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
MT. Tam
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
frame, components, looks
Weaknesses:
lots of initial adjustments
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
I ride lots of light trails and pavement and that's what this bike was made to do. I've put approx 2000mi on this puppy in 9mos. and am quite pleased. I'm a big guy and this bike feels real sturdy underneath me. It can even handle some of the rougher trails I've banged around on--- from time to time :-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Skembo
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas, TX, USA Date Reviewed: March 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Rowlett Creek Preserve
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame Good component base Handlebar Cranks (Can you say Son Of A Strongarm?) Tires
Weaknesses:
Hubs BB Pedals Grips
Similar Products Used:
Trek Schwinn
Bike Setup:
'99 Hardrock '97 Judy XC (with White Bros. air) Race Face Taperlock BB Icon Bar Ends Specialized S-Works Stem Specialized Dirt Rodz Dual Rib Cages Cane Creek C-2 head set Shimano XTR V-Brakes
Bottom Line:
OK, I admit it I paid more for the upgrades then I paid for this bike. Fortunately I bought it for less than you think. I'm a true mad man, I love steel frames, and can't afford to buy a true "Custom Steel" frame those things cost more than my whole bike.
I was generaly impressed by the quality of the frame. Good welds, and very sturdy. I got kind of a special deal, I bought this bike from an online site (www.bikesale.com). I bought the bike with the '97 Judy XC for $359. It was perfect for me, I wasn't willing to settle for a Jett.
Sure its cost me something like $700 now, but it is exactly the way I like it. Replace the Chain Rings first and Casette second, and move on from there.
If you are a beginner, or a casual rider this bike will be fine stock. If you want to raise some HELL then do what I did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
darcy bouffard
a Cross Country Rider
from sudbury, ontario Date Reviewed: March 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
centenial trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
well it has very nice colours the tires perform well.
Weaknesses:
the rock shoc indy s don't perform well at all the grip shift are garbage and so are the rims, crank, hubs,cassette...
Bike Setup:
easton monkey lite handlebars, xt rear deraleur and lx front, k525 velosity rims, cyote cross country tires,xt rear cassette,lx crank, lx rapidfire, avid 2.0 v-brakes, and front and rear lx hubs.
Bottom Line:
the bike preformed like s@#t before i made all of these upgrades some were not nessasary but i want a good bike. i picked this bike because it looked good and i find it preforms well in muddy situation and the price was right.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lazarus
a Downhiller
from Wichita,ks Date Reviewed: March 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
in KS?
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Looks good, decent components, can be quick on downhills
Weaknesses:
heavy, tends to bottom out, grip shifts
Similar Products Used:
specialized m2, trek 4500, stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
factory except: shimano 545 pedals, specialized Ti groove seat
Bottom Line:
Good bike for weekends or to have for a spare. Great for a first timer, as long as they are eating their Wheaties.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ethan
a Cross Country Rider
from Ashland Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
no trials (at least not with this thing) :)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
-strong body
Weaknesses:
-Duo Track (unajustable susp.) out right stinks! -bad grip shifts, and Tires are not great!
Similar Products Used:
none other.
Bike Setup:
Duo Track Susp. grip shift 6.0's (upgraded) bar ends(upgrade) cliped pedals(add on)
Bottom Line:
I do not care for this bike at all! I am plannung to go get A 1999 Specialized Rockhopper A1 Fs, for $549.99, now thats a bike. The Hardrock, has crap for suspension and bad grip shifters(upgrade those for the sake of all! If you are planning on just starting out or doing city riding then its not to bad, but stay on the road, please, this thing slips and sliddes of road!! and the brakes are not great either...but you'll live if you keeep them!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter bloch
a Weekend Warrior
from berlin Date Reviewed: December 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
good handling,look,cheap
Weaknesses:
grip shift,saddle
Bike Setup:
shimano lx,brooks saddle,bar ends
Bottom Line:
nice city bike,good handling
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Nashville Date Reviewed: November 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
LOCK 4
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Strong Cheap
Weaknesses:
Heavy Slow handling Indy S too firm not enough travel
Similar Products Used:
TREK GT
Bike Setup:
Grip Shift 4.0 Indy S internals upgraded to Indy C
Bottom Line:
Great bike for anyone just getting into MT. biking. No problems after 2 years other than crash damage to shifters. Still ride sometimes after I park my STUMPJUMPER FSR XC. Like an old friend.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
REO
a Cross-Country Rider
from GEORGIA Date Reviewed: October 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
CHICAPEE
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
LOW COST, LOOKS, GOOD FACTORY TIRES AND SEAT.
Weaknesses:
BOTTOM BRACKET, CRANKS, SHOCKS, GRIP SHIFT, AND WEAK RIMS.
Similar Products Used:
NONE. THIS WAS MY FIRST REAL BIKE.
Bike Setup:
ROCK SHOKS JETT C.
Bottom Line:
THE BIKE WOULD BE OK IF YOU BABIED IT. THIS BIKE WOULD BE A GREAT SMOOTH TRAIL BIKE, BUT IF YOU LIKE THE HARD CORE MOUNTAIN BIKING YOU NEED TO SPEND MORE CASH AND GET A BETTER BIKE WITH BETTER COMPONENTS.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross-Country Rider
from Germantown, MD Date Reviewed: August 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Schaeffer Farm
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light enough for price range and the fork has decent travel if not thrashing too hard. Decent components for the price.
Weaknesses:
Needed quite a bit of adjustment to derailleurs in the begining.. mostly just stretch.
Bike Setup:
1999 Hardrock FS Jett C fork
Bottom Line:
I would highly reccomend this bike. The price range is great and the whole thing is very solid. Handles a lot of punishment. Really is sweet to ride and handles like a dream on switchbacks and smokes up steep hills with ease. I'm in love.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thraken
a Weekend Warrior
from MN Date Reviewed: August 12, 1999
Sure, the fork sucks, the shifters suck and the frame sucks but for $370 is'a still a heck of a deal. I have turned the preload all the way down on the fork but it's still not responsive enough. Oh well. The stem is bothersome too. This bike is great for beginners (me) and a good deal too
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett
a Weekend Warrior
from NC Date Reviewed: August 10, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good setup, looks, price
Weaknesses:
shocks, cro-mo frame
Bike Setup:
standard
Bottom Line:
A good bike for the money except for the jett c shocks and crappy gripshifts. I would still reccomendt it though.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hicksville, NY Date Reviewed: August 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Stillwell Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
good looks, excellent crank set, able bike overall for the money
Weaknesses:
shock is comparable to riding no suspension
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
stock: cro-mo frame, rock shox jett c, good mix of Shimano Alivio and Grip Shift MRX
Bottom Line:
this bike is very able for the money, i ride intermediate to advanced terrain every week or so and have had no problems as of yet, though i do hope to upgrade my fork to a 2000 Manitou when thy come out
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter mccann
a Racer
from houston tx Date Reviewed: August 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
ho chi mihn
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
reliable
Weaknesses:
none @ price point
Similar Products Used:
c-dale
Bike Setup:
replace as needed
Bottom Line:
Just wanted riders to know that Specialized delivers what they advertise. They recently sent me a new cro-mo frame under their lifetime steel policy on a 15 year old hardrock frame with a cracked drop out. This bike survived stresses well beyond what 90% of riders will exert. My hat is off to Specialized for delivering what they promise.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Waterloo Date Reviewed: August 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
From here to there, down.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Cheap
Weaknesses:
You get what you pay for...
Similar Products Used:
Raleigh Inferno w/Rock Shox
Bike Setup:
Stanadard FS with Jett XC Long Travel
Bottom Line:
Started with the original bike. Switched grip shift to rapid fire. Changed the rims, they got bent from little bumps. Switched the stem; had too much rise. Switched the grips. One of the cranks got rounded out after about three months of riding (I ride about 10-15k/day). The left pedal developed a nasty squeak and the right one broke. Had metal ones put in place instead. Luckily, the warranty is good enough that I didn't have to pay a cent for it. It's a decent bike, but it's not made for anything harsh. That's why I got a Rocky Mountain Spice...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benjamin Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from Flagstaff, Arizona Date Reviewed: July 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Little Bear on Mt. Elden
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Shock is pretty good
Weaknesses:
Componenets and Frame too easily damaged
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Standard Setup
Bottom Line:
Not that great, mud collects in all the cheap parts. Don't get it if you ride more than once a week.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Radovan Treci
a Cross-Country Rider
from Chicago, Il Date Reviewed: June 22, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Nice geometry, bar, stem, RS jett fork.
Weaknesses:
Rims are just @#!$, gripshift,derailleurs.
Similar Products Used:
Fuji, Gary Fisher, Haro, Trek, Mongoose.
Bottom Line:
Well, it's a nise lower middle quality bike for reasonable price, capable of sustaining forces of nature. Good looking, some good parts, some not so good. Ride is far, far better than I suposed it would be(pure fun and joy). In MHO bike is for all people who like to enjoy ride for sake of ride and not to be a techno wizard or propaganda maker. And after all bike can stand beside much pricier bikes and it won't look cheap.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross-Country Rider
from El Paso, Texas Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
-Very nice looking -Handles well -Comes equipped with fairly well components -Not too pricey
Weaknesses:
-Bike is fairly heavy -Gripshift?
Bike Setup:
No upgrades, as of yet. -I'm planning to upgrade the derailleurs, brakes, and pedals, soon.
Bottom Line:
The Specialized HardRock FS is my first *good* bike. I used to have Huffys and Murrays as a kid..err..let's not talk about that. Anyways, the HardRock is an excellent bike, and hasn't given me any troubles, at all..damned good bike for the money. Great for beginners.- At least, it has been for me! Check it out!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James C. Herman
a Cross-Country Rider
from Eastern New Jersey Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Clayton Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Excellent handling given the price. The Jett-C works well, but remember to adjust it for the terrain. Factory tires do a nice job. A little heavy, but I've only been riding 3 months and still learning. Oh yeah, I got the shiny silver model and it looks like a million bucks (esp. specialized's crankset)!
Weaknesses:
Replaced the grips (from stock to yeti), the saddle (to serfas cosmos), and added climbing bars. All minor adjustments to a very sub-$500 package.
Similar Products Used:
Scwinn Sierra
Bike Setup:
Rock Shok 48mm Yeti grips Serfas saddle Schwinn climbing bars
Bottom Line:
Excellent overall package, period. If you're looking for a serious machine for under $500, this it!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Amir
a Cross-Country Rider
from Waterloo Ontario Date Reviewed: June 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anthills
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Cool color, nice shock, Light,nice tires, good drivetrain
Weaknesses:
Gripshipt MRX (I upgraded to STX for no extra charge)
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose S20 ~~~~~~~~ A40
Bike Setup:
STX shifters
Bottom Line:
looks looks like 800 dollar bike. Responsive, quik an excellent choice for all 13 year olds
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta, Georgia Date Reviewed: May 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Weaknesses:
A little on the heavy side
Bottom Line:
This is my first bike since I was eight. I have enjoyed every minute of riding it, whether I am on my way to classes or taking longer weekend rides. The Derailleurs will probably need to be replaced within the next few months and I made the mistake of getting clipless, spd-less pedals. The Jett-c's are great and are well worth the investment. After owning my first bike in 13 years, I can say that I feel like I made a great decision with the Hard Rock FS.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LWATCDR
a Weekend Warrior
from Port St, Lucie Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
C-25
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Price, looks, quality, and it's fun.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy. The seat.
Similar Products Used:
a cheap bike from Wall-mart
Bike Setup:
Hardrock FS
Bottom Line:
This bile is a blast. I am having a ball riding it. Handles sugar sand very well even with my massive out of shape frame on it. I do wish I had spent a little more and got the comp, but for the price it looks hard to beat..
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tara Kay Stange
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: May 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
bobs trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Color quite cool
Weaknesses:
heavy
Bottom Line:
i really like this bike, its great to get back and forth from college classes and than ride hard on the weekends.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jayhoo
a weekend warrior
from Authur ont,ca Date Reviewed: January 28, 1999
Bottom Line:
It's all good but seat post is to short for long legged riders,But it is still a good ride if you like torture Cool. Color mango is pretty hard to find and decals are hard to find after some #$%%$^ steals it (recoverd it) The hardrock is HARDCORE a deffinent 3.5 hot peppers.
Overall Rating:
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