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Specialized
Hardrock Bike
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Submitted by
Mattia76
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Louis, MO
Date Reviewed: October 13, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | EBAY | | Strengths: | Can't beat the sheer strength of the frame, or the value. I'm a stout dude rocking 220 and my 17-inch frame doesn't skip a beat or strain under the pressure. And I know this shouldn't matter, but this bike just looks SWEET. Electric blue and chrome are a great combo. | | Weaknesses: | Of course the components could be better. Specifically, I'm going to replace the pedals soon and get some slicks for riding in the cit-ay. Also the cantilever brakes will need an upgrade (any suggestions would be welcome). | | Similar Products Used: | I bought one of these new with the aluminum frame and front suspension back in 1998, after owning a black 96 Hardrock. Rode the crap out of those bikes and sold the aluminum to a buddy (who's still riding it) 5 years back to buy a Stumpjumper. Worst bike mistake I ever made. I live in the middle of St. Louis City. I ride around Forest Park. After an EXHAUSTING 10 mile street ride to grad school one day on the StumpJumper, I realized I had been much happier on the Hardrock. It took me 4 years to get back on a bike, but I couldn't be happier now. | | Bike Setup: | 1997 Hardrock GX. Blue. NO suspension. A sight to behold. Shiny and almost new. Stock components. In a year or so I'll add a child's seat for my boy. Great fun to ride. | | Bottom Line: | I was looking for a hybrid bike once I realized that bikes really bred for the trail weren't really my friend on the paved paths at Forest Park. After checking a couple of shops, I found that I was looking at a minimum of $420 to find something even close to my old Hardrock. So I had to find a new old one. I can't recommend it enough. If you're looking for a solid commuter, this bike hits the sweet spot!! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jleake
a Cross Country Rider
from UK
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$500.00 | | Purchased At: | Condor Cycles | | Strengths: | Strong frame, comfortable riding position | | Weaknesses: | Gear set is too clunky and wheels are not strong enough. Mine collapsed. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockhopper Comp | | Bike Setup: | Mountain bike kitted with smooth road tyres for daily commuting | | Bottom Line: | Has something happened to Specialized's wheel makers? I used to have a 2000 Hardrock and used it for commuting around London for 7 years. The wheels just kept on turning - till the rims wore out simply from braking. That was OK - I'd got more than 10,000 miles out of them. My son also has an older Hardrock and hammers it round a mountain bike course every weekend, again without any problems.
Recently I got a new Hardrock - the 09 pro disk model with Alex Rims. Within four months the rear wheel has collapsed with three broken spokes. I have only used it for commuting in London. Looking at the spokes I can see why - they are much thinner and flimsier than the old ones.
What's more, this is the second Specialized bike I've had to have suffered a rear wheel collapse. The last one was a Rockhopper comp. I keep it for mountain biking but it too was less than a year old and had hardly been used. And I'd kept checking spoke tension.
I think Specialized have either skimped on the wheels or chosen a bad supplier. Either way it could be that you'd be risking a lot of hassle and cash if you go for the current Hardrock and Rockhopper models.
Jonathan, London | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Essex
Date Reviewed: February 6, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | the cycle store | | Strengths: | The frame is great to ride and is feels solid and it handles jumps and drop offs really well! | | Weaknesses: | the oly thing i could possibly think of is the gearing, this is because when changing from 2nd to the 1st chainring on the front derailliuer the chain persisted on dismounting. The only other thing i coyuld say is that my trousers kept getting stuck it he front derailliur and now i have a foot ong rip up my favourite biking trousers, so quick hint do not wear very baggy trousers! | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | ?????????????????????? | | Bottom Line: | its a great bike that alot of people will enjoy riding i would recomend it to people who mainly ride cross country the brakes i thing are pretty good and are not to abrupt and have worked very well so far. the front FSR have taken a while to soften up but once they did they really cane into their own and soak up the bumps and roots a treat. the tyres sre great and provide great grip on most surfaces and the puncture resistant ness is a ausome extra. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zach West
a Cross Country Rider
from B. L CA
Date Reviewed: December 27, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Pogonip | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | friend | | Strengths: | The frame is very sturdy and can handle a beating. It feels very comfortable for riding in the mountains. | | Weaknesses: | The fork, V-Brakes, shifters, derailleurs, almost all the components. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Hayes solo brakes w/ 8" rotors, Shimano LX shifters, LX front and rear derailleur, Marzocchi Dirt Jam comp fork, etc. | | Bottom Line: | I think the frame is a good starter bike, but some of the components are really weak. If you pick up the bike used a few hundred dollars in upgrades goes along way as far a beginner bike. It is worth the money for a starter and it is tough as hell. Because if you are like me and other beginners, you will fall a few times. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dylan Heck
a Cross Country Rider
from Silverthorne
Date Reviewed: November 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | colorado | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$390.00 | | Purchased At: | mso | | Strengths: | great storng good for every thing you would use it for good paint and very good for wheelies
| | Weaknesses: | tires suck and a little heavy | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock with kenda k rad tires and avid bb7 disk brakes | | Bottom Line: | 2006 hard rick is the best and looks sick to | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Barton
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose
Date Reviewed: December 31, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Tough as nails. Has not broken in 4 years of mostly xc stuff.
Paint is really sturdy and has not scratched at all. With the longer travel fork it handles alot better. Great for all rider levels. | | Weaknesses: | Bottom bracket creaks no matter what I do. Have changed it out twice and still the same old noise. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn hardtail, Raleigh M7000, Dirt Works Piranha(still have). | | Bike Setup: | 1999 Specialized Hard Rock A-1 comp hardtail frame. Rock Shox Psylo SL. XT shifters, brakes, bottom bracket, cranks, head set, hubs. XTR derailleurs, cassette. White Bros. ti bars. Spcialized stem. Post modern seat post and Bontrager ceramic rims and seat. | | Bottom Line: | Paid $100 for the frame and stock post and Deore crankset and bottom bracket. This is a very tough bike and smoothes out the bumps with the seat post and forks. I am thinking about getting another full suspension bike because I'm getting older and the big bangs now get me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rj smiley
a
from canada
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | urban riding | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | martin bike shop southampton | | Strengths: | (03) ligh wieght, good for starting, can handle bigger things with upgrades | | Weaknesses: | crank set and bottum bracket arn't strong enough( i've gone through about 3 crank sets before finally getting new bottum brackey) forks need more travel i moved to an EXR seat is too hardm, better brakes needed | | Similar Products Used: | havn't bothered | | Bike Setup: | truvative hussilfelt cranks, bomber EXR forks, roller pro tires | | Bottom Line: | i like the bike, it lasted about 2 months before i dicided to upgrade, it's a great starting bike and is good for trail riding, smaller drops, and would be good for urban riding if it had better brakes | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Aarhus, DK
Date Reviewed: August 2, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | coopers rock, West Virginia | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | co-worker | | Strengths: | unbelievably solid, great feel for the weekend warrior and someone who wants a solid bike that wont break down. On the trail it feels like a tank, but goes like one too. Never been on high-speed trails/offroad but for west virginia logging roads you cant beat it. | | Weaknesses: | front forks. Not a huge fan of front shocks but my hardrock would make your wrist sore in the first couple miles. | | Similar Products Used: | Taarnby Wild Creek. | | Bike Setup: | All stock except new crank to replace the aluminum original crank which finally gave out on it's 5th year. It was a treeclimber before, now it's a bit too extreme and lacking top end i like having on the road with the new gearing. | | Bottom Line: | Moved to europe and that's the one thing i wish i still had. Not doing any downhill or major offroad action here, yet that old hardrock was as good on the nice flat roads here as any out there.
New taarnby is nice, front disk breaks, acera all around, omni sfront shock. But already experiencing problems i've not had thought the life of my specialized (rear wheel slip on a hard pull, unfixable derailer grind in certain gears).
it's sitting in a box back in the states, next flight in and i'm packing it in the plane with me, NO EXCEPTIONS hehe.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris lowery
a Cross Country Rider
from western new york
Date Reviewed: November 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | snowmobile trails around here | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | local bike shop | | Strengths: | This bike climbs like a goat. i dont have any problem climbing the steepest hills around here. The frame is pretty durable,i've done some 5-6 ft. drops with it and it handled them like a beast. | | Weaknesses: | The stock fork is a rigid,so if your going to be wanting to do a lot of cross-country and want to have fun,you should probably upgrade forks. all the other parts on it get the job done. | | Similar Products Used: | nothing,this thing rocks | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shock Quadra 21,ritchey logic headset,stock | | Bottom Line: | If your going to start doing cross country,and are on a budget,find one of these. for about 500$'s total i have made this bike a blast to ride,sure its not the newest one out there,but they are definatley worth the money | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jun salaya
a Weekend Warrior
from san jose , ca
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | saratoga gap trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$330.00 | | Strengths: | durable frame | | Weaknesses: | heavy, cheap components, not a mountain bike | | Bike Setup: | upgraded now to shimano lx and now it's a real mountain bike | | Bottom Line: | I purchase this bike in 1994 for going around the block. A friend invited me at joseph grant and realized it is not a mountain bike.In 99, i purchased a santa cruz heckler, upon upgrading the heckler components, i transferred it to the hardrock, and now it has mostly LX and avid components with 9 speed, oh, man, this bike is a bonafide mountain bike, all components had been replaced, only framed was untouched,wow it now performs, its like a wolf in sheeps clothing. Hats-off to Specialize bike, what a frame, it is really taking a lot of beating. I take good care of this now, yes it is a lttle bit heavy, is fully restored. Friend or relatives who wants to start mountain biking, i loan this they always loved it. I know it sounds crazy, but one of this days, it will have a chris king headset. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Neale
a Cross Country Rider
from Chirstchurch, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Rapaki, Fringe Hill, Wharfedale | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikeline Riccarton | | Strengths: | Great hillclimber. Good handling. | | Weaknesses: | Crappy bottom bracket, GX (rigid) model doesn't fit standard shocks. | | Similar Products Used: | Avanti Hurricane | | Bike Setup: | Bauer "I-Beam" alloy stem, LX bottom bracket, Weinmann Alloy rims, DT spokes, Specialized Team Master and Team Control Tires, Grip Shift, Kool-Stop carbon/ceramic brake pads. | | Bottom Line: | I take the bike out about 3 times a week, mainly uphill and single track. The Wharfedale track is known for being pretty brutal on any bike, although I've only suffered from a couple of bent wheels and a cracked fork. (The original rigid Cr-Mo one.)
I've had the HardRock longer than any of my previous bikes (4 years - my previous bike was an Avanti Hurricane which lasted about 6 months.) and it's still going, despite being abused well beyond what the owners manual says it should.
The bottom bracket broke after about 400Km so I put an LX one in, and have had no probs since.
Excellent value, I've had my moneys worth, I have yet to find a better handling hardtail, and, despite the Cr-Mo frame being a tad heavy, this puppy climbs with the best.
I'd reccomend this for intermediate riders on a student budget. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Abec
a Weekend Warrior
from xfthzxdgh
Date Reviewed: June 18, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Strengths: | gagag | | Weaknesses: | sgasfg | | Similar Products Used: | gsefgsergaaegae | | Bike Setup: | fgsdfgsfgsegsdf | | Bottom Line: | Alright bike, some dsdof the stuff on it isnt the best. but overall its okxcvbzdfgzdfgm nsdjdfjwdfhawuioefuiawefhashjvashd fadfhauwhafwefawuuia wefhaifawufh uiafh uawiehrawuirfhawefyawuiaiwfh aivhiawrufh auilcbuilwerbvyaetagu wgfzsjkzvn iact uilty 7i byygacyiwbaaerhin aasafilqefhiabgidsya iawerhfaifawuifh wruihawgyeh ytibylwfhb aihg ss | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
hand-rail
a Cross Country Rider
from st. louis, MO, USA
Date Reviewed: May 15, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$315.00 | | Purchased At: | bike shop | | Strengths: | The hardrock AX, alum frame, is fairly light and strong. I purchased my 1997 in early 98 on close out, so i got a good deal. The gripshifters, although not top of the line, have never given my troubles. | | Weaknesses: | Having problems stabilizing steer tube after upgrade to syncros stem, fork will not sit still. Weak brakes, replaced the rear canti with a V brake, works great now. The components were shimano A, not the best, replaced rear derail with STX. Also bent the weak ass inner major ring the first time i took it on a trail. The tires are a bit on the cheap side, but do the trick for moderate to heavy use. | | Bottom Line: | Not a bad bike for the money. Came with cheap comps. If buying used, check for component upgrades before purchasing. I am shying away from specialized bikes in the future after hearing many horror stories in regards to customer service. The Hardrock AX is worth the cash, but beware of the required upgrades. Good bike for beginners looking for a aluminum frame set-up. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robyn A
a Weekend Warrior
from Nova Scotia, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 31, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Three jump trail | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$220.00 | | Purchased At: | Found it in my driveway. | | Strengths: | Good bike for beginers. Cheap and pretty light. | | Weaknesses: | Bottom bracket makes cracking noises. | | Similar Products Used: | Supercycle and CCM rigid bikes | | Bike Setup: | Zac19 rim on the back. Acrea derailers. Sweet $35 tires that I don't know the name of. A crank off of a Leader bike. | | Bottom Line: | This bike isn't really worth the money unless you put shocks on it. To repair this bike cost more than it does. Unless you stay on the road and don't do any jumps or drops. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mountain maniac
a Weekend Warrior
from new zealand
Date Reviewed: August 29, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Good value, good beginners bike ok hillclimber | | Weaknesses: | the crap standard specialized tyres, noisy bottom bracket(does anyone else have this problem) the gripshifters have cracked my model cant fit standard shocks | | Bike Setup: | acera x components no shocks basically standard | | Bottom Line: | This is an okay beginners bike but it lacks the real handling of a more expensive machine.
Value its great i picked mine up for NZ$ 250 and it has lasted me well.
The only thing thats the problem is when my crap rear derailleur busted taking a pee wee jump. Costing me about $100 to fix (nearly half the price).
Apart from the crappy bottom bracket arrangment I think this is a fine bike | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Maverick
a Downhiller
from Uniontown,Ohio,USA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Killington , Vermont | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Well, let's face it. the damn thing was a tank. Cro-Mo has to be about the most burly of all the fames I've ever ridden, but it came with nice fat mud kickers both front and rear. I have never gotten a flat with the tires, and I would try to bend the stock Arya rims and couldn't seem to do it. I would have to also say that as much as I hated climbing with that ride, it climbed like no other hardtail I have ever ridden. On her last ride, I took her up to Killington, VT, for some sick downhill and I was really planning on leaving it up there in pieces; but she actually made it and is in the hands of my buddy making it her 6th year. | | Weaknesses: | Well, the first thing has to be the OEM shock, I think that it worked for about 3 days of the 6 years that I have had it. It was tough, but it was way too damn heavy.
Plastic components made replacing them an inevitable, just alot sooner than I had anticipated. The bottom braket is about as watertight as a screen door in a sub, which also made replacing the bearings a pretty regular thing. I also broke my first frame in a bout a week, and was down from riding for about a week. | | Similar Products Used: | Comparable Treks, and Giants that for the same amount of bread; were not nearly as sturdy and rugged. | | Bike Setup: | Alivio components,RST front shock,Araya rims with the Specialized "More Control" up front, and the "More Extreme" in the rear to put all that weight to work just the way it came from the factory. | | Bottom Line: | It rode like a tank, and was heavy as hell; but; it all came together to make one hell of a mountain bike. For being six years old, it was pretty tough for it's time. That bike was like a lady, just the right words and the right touch; and she would get you to the top or bottom as long as you didn't mind the stiff ride. Since my last trip to VT, I invested in a K2 1000 Full Suspension, and if it weren't for that, I'd still be riding her to this day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brandon
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Cheap, and light compare to other bikes at the same price. Nice and stiff (or maybe I'm light) | | Weaknesses: | Heavy, Heavy, Heavy. Cheap components. Horrible breaks. Heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rock Hopper | | Bike Setup: | '95 Judy XC.. thats about the only thing worth mentioning. | | Bottom Line: | The stock parts break pretty fast. Plastic pedals broke, deuraillers broke, headset proke, untrued wheel, worn out rim, horrible tires, horrible brakes... any way, my bike needs some tuning.
Not a bad bike for the price, definetly better then the bikes at the same price in Wal-mart or alike.
..
I can't make it any lighter! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Troy
a Weekend Warrior
from Holyoke, MA
Date Reviewed: March 21, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Solid Frame
Nice looking bike
| | Weaknesses: | Fell apart on me | | Bike Setup: | All Alivio components | | Bottom Line: | The guy who built my bike was on crack. In the first month I lost my rear derrailleur twice, the front and back brakes twice each, and the bike was totally out of true when I brought it home the first day. After getting those problems sorted out, my left crank FELL OFF riding on the street. I had nothing but problems with this bike and from the looks of the last couple of reviews, I wouldn't recommend this bike to anyone. I was told it was a great beginner's bike, but I saw no evidence of this. Traded in for a Rock Hopper and I am the happiest guy alive.
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from StCatharines ON
Date Reviewed: December 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Provincial Parks | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
inexpensive
solid
good starter | | Weaknesses: |
kinda heavy
no fork (for me anyways) | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
everything stock so far
AceraX all around
with some really heavy wheels | | Bottom Line: | Good starting bike, but if you catch onto to moutain biking you'll quickly want to upgrade.
(as I'm going to do soon)
one hell of a lot better than anything from Wal-Mart or Canadian Tire. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Telly
a Weekend Warrior
from Manchester
Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Snowdonia area, North Wales | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
The colour. | | Weaknesses: |
Poor Components. Gears are awful, brakes are worse. A bit expensive for this sort of bike. | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialised rock hopper - way better. | | Bottom Line: | My bike was like one of those things from a bargin basement shop, everything went wrong, but the moral of the story is get a better job, don't be a skin-flint and buy a better bike. Maybe I got a particulaly wonky one, I'm usually lucky like that. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan Judd
a Cross-Country Rider
from Tracy, CA
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Clark's Fork Service Road | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Frame geometry, frame strength, components | | Weaknesses: |
Would like a little better selection of front chain wheels available. | | Similar Products Used: |
Owned a Hardrock FS for about 1 1/2 yrs. | | Bike Setup: |
New, Hardrock Comp FS A1. Added Gyro Fixi;k seat and lighter mavic rims. also, I got a smaller frame this time. | | Bottom Line: | Very impressed with the handling of this bike. Very quick. Way lighter than my Hardrock FS (Cro-mo). The frame geometry in aluminum and the few added components I've made. made a quick light bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
michael
a Weekend Warrior
from belmont
Date Reviewed: June 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
bear brook state park,nh,usa | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
quality of frame, ease of use for novice, ride quality | | Weaknesses: |
seats were bad | | Bottom Line: | have had 2 hardrocks for 1 year now, one is an a1 and other is a sport. after 1 year of pretty good use i have had no problems. both bikes are working great. had to replace seats for more comfort. no repair work needed as of this time. i run around 22o lbs and drive pretty hard, my a1 has done nothing but ask for more. great bikes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Speed Demon
a Cross-Country Rider
from Baltimore
Date Reviewed: June 13, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Vineland | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Good starter bike, fairly light with ok components for its time
frame is bombproof and stiff | | Weaknesses: |
Heavy compared to now's stuff
fork sucked (on the '97 AX FS model)
brakes sucked | | Similar Products Used: |
'99 Giant XTC SE-2 | | Bike Setup: |
Many upgrades-XT rear deraillur, new wheels, seat, pedals, etc. (don't use anymore-converting it to a trash-at-ski-resort-bike) | | Bottom Line: | This was a pretty good bike for the money for its time. One thing was was that I bought it right before v-brakes were popular and cheep. shocks I thought were pretty ok, but them the elastomers stopped being able to be compressed, after them being set up to hard for me already. The bike became a rigid.
ratings:
4 flamers for the deal then
4 flamers for the bike them
4 Flamers for how I upgraded it
1 flamer for it stock to anything now
average: 3 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rob
a Cross-Country Rider
from san bruno,ca.
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
purisma OSP | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Bike Setup: |
RST 381R fork
Ritchey Aheadset
Ritchey stem
Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires (26 x 2.0)
GT saddle
Kore Lite bar
Serfas grips | | Bottom Line: | I found this bike near our dumpster sans front wheel. Dusty, a little bit of rust but a little TLC helped bring it back to life. Took it on some hard trails for the first couple of months. It did pretty good considering it's only a cro-mo and hardtail. Then I upgraded to an RST 381r with Ritchey steering components and a pair of Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires.. Much much ipmroved. Don't even know what year this bike is. If anyone can help my, here is the description : 17 frame, Hardrock Sport, old Specialized logo on toptube, came with someDia-Compe 21-speed rapids , cantis, Araya rim and Sugino 5-arm crank | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA
Date Reviewed: March 27, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Bottom Line: | This bike is great! I love it. Specialized sure knows how to build a cheap bike. I had a Trek 800 sport before it, but the Hardrock Sport is twice the bike. Also it came with great tires. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Barnesy
a weekend warrior
from Geneva, NY
Date Reviewed: March 10, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is a hunk of shit best left to beginners. I got it when I was a beginner, way back in 96. Mine was equipped OEM with a suntour shock and Acera X components. It wasn 't bad, the shock just plain didn't work. I crashed once and somehow bent the crap OEM stem. I gutted the derailleur on a stick on the trail. I did ride it all over hell and gone though. Overall, a fair to poor beginners bike. Go buy a C'Dale, but just the frame, not their overpriced schwag-assed components. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruce
a weekend warrior
from Burnaby BC Canada
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
PS; When I wrote the review below I had not yet gone to the Specialized web site to see the host of models they have. For the record I got the Hardrock Sport model. This is Cro-Mol frame version with the butted Ritchey tube set and hard forks. I bought this because the TREK 970 is my road commuter and I wanted a second bike for trail riding so I don't have to change the tires (a set of LX whells is about $280 up here and I got the bike for $380). As I said before buy this package for cheap and upgrade to your heart's content. The frame is much better than the price would indicate. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruce
a weekend warrior
from Burnaby BC Canada
Date Reviewed: January 4, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my 3rd mountain bike. The other two a former TREK 830 shx and a current TREK 970. The old 830 at the same price range does not hold a candle to the new Hardrock. Lighter frame and super light accurate steering for those technical sections. It feels a lot closer to my 970 which is a real good thing (read the reviews of the 970, it KICKS and it's all true). Yes the acera is weak but when new it is just fine. Buy this bike for the frame and wear out the parts and change them for STX, eyeleted rims and maybe a better fork but LOVE THE FRAME! This is the way an entry level or fun bike should be. Get the buyer hooked with good handling in a medium weight package and keep the components cheap to avoid the initial sticker shock and let them upgrade to suit there wallet and desires. Nice work Specialized! As a bike the components should reduce the rating but for such a fun frame at this price point I gotta go with a full pull. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jesus Levy
a weekend warrior
from Mexico City, Mexico
Date Reviewed: November 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned a Hardrock since 1988. All I have to say is that for the price, it is indeed a very nice bike. It is quite durable. Mine has over 12,000 miles on it, and I still use it to train regularly, taking it for 40+ miles rides.The Suntour original group did a good job, but the bike really took a quantum leap when I decided to install a Shimano Allivio group. The bike is somewhat heavy, but when you train on it and then ride some other fancier bike, you can really tell the difference.This is not a fancy machine or a light bike. This is a bike for budget conscious people in mind who would not care carrying a few additional pounds, but wants overall durability.Original price was $250. After more than 10 years of faithfull service, I think 4 flaming carrots is just fair. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a cross-country rider
from St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
Date Reviewed: November 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 93 Hard Rock Sport that I bought in early 95 from a triathelete who was trying out MTBing and realized he didn't like it. With 120 kms on it (!) it was still in brand new condition. The Crossroads tires still had the little rubber nibs on them. Anyway, in the almost four years I've owned it, I've really enjoyed it. I've had to replace the drivetrain, but that's to be expected after a couple of years of hard riding (it's actually good for such low end parts - a guy at the LBS only gets one season out of his higher end stuff!) Anyway, the stock deraileurs aren't great, but have lasted fairly well (Altus C-10, about the same level in '93 as STX is now). Both deraileurs need to be replaced now, but for fairly cheap stuff, I'm pleased with how long they've lasted.Recently picked up some XT cantis from CBO with LX shifter levers really cheap, seem to be much nicer stuff than the old stuff. I've never had to touch the Bottom bracket. Never. I've never taken it apart to clean or anything, and it's still really nice. Headset's worn out, but again, it's almost six years old!I bought a Marzocchi XCR fork on closeout a couple years ago, and contrary to what the guy said below about forks, it hasn't affected the handling in a negative manner. Quite the opposite. I run it with a little bit of sag and thus the front end of the bike is no higher than it was before.I'm a powerful rider, and the bike has held up well underneath me. The pedals were good, but I junked them. It's like any lower end bike - those nylon pedals just don't hold up. Now have 535s on.I did wear out the seatpost this year, but I do weigh ~190 lbs ;-) That's lots of weight to be carrying around.Finally, the only real criticism I have is the seat that came with the bike. Specialized Air/Gel. What a piece of junk. Really uncomfy. I replaced it with a Vetta TT trishock with Manganese side rails. Quite nice.Like a guy mentioned earlier, no problems keeping up with people on much more expensive and fancier (read: lighter) bikes. Of course, it's not all the bike...In summary: I've been really pleased with the performance of the bike. Sure, I've had to replace stuff, but I'm an aggressive rider, and the stuff is old. The frame is great, and Specialized has a customer for a long time.Cheers,
Andrew | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom P
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: November 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
First of all I have to say this bike is lousy. It comes with poor components and wheels and the frame is quite heavy. I bought my Hardrock about 2 1/2 years ago. It was the first real(non Huffy) mountain bike I ever bought. At first I loved it. I rode it everywhere; to school, to work, on trails, even on road rides(30mi+). Unfortunatly, after about eight months, I couldn't even take it on short commutes anymore. Everything was wacked; shifters, deraillurs, wheels, etc.. It was unrideable so it sat in the garage for a year and a half while I spent my time on a road bike. After a while I decided I wanted to do some mountain biking again. Ibought new wheels, shifters, derailleurs, and a crank. I still did most of my riding on the road. After about six months I was cleaning my frame after a ride and discovered a crack in one of the dropouts. I couldn't believe it. This frame is so heavy, it should never brake! Especially because it's hardly been used. Specialized replaced the frame for free, but the new frame they sent doesn't work with non-vbrakes, a one inch steerer, my seatpost or my front der. Now I'm very disapointed, I hoped this bike would last a very long time, but I feel I've only gotten one year of real riding out of it. Therefore I give it One Chili. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim the =-T-O-O-L-= fan.
a weekend warrior
from melbourne!
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Overall, i am pretty happy with my Hardrock FS A1. Although I have abused the absolute crap out of it with my own style of riding, it is holding up well. I got a pair of JUDY XC's for the front (they were new and $325 aussie dollars), then about a month later I had a monumental crash that bent the crown and the headset on the forks and mangled the front end, but the frame was fine, and the bike shop fixed everything up! I managed to get a new crown for AUD $80, and now everythings happy again....i dont care what you people say about it having crappy breaks, they rock, sure, you have to squeez abit more than if it had XT, but when they stop, they stop. LX is fine!!!! my only anoyance is the cranks which come loose all the time, but thats minor!..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher James Barratt
a downhiller
from Warwickshire,UK
Date Reviewed: October 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Now let me see. I first got my beloved Hardrock back in the golden age of mountain biking in 1992, when I paid a mere £250 pounds for a bike with a high calibre chromium-molydenum alloy of steel frame. This bike has served me well over the years with the original Crossroads tyres still in use as they offer all the traction that I ever need on my local trails. I have made some upgrades to the bike after careful deliberation, and I opted to replace the ageing 200GS chainset with something a little more becoming to a bike of this calibre, a Shimano 1998 Alivio to be exact which I fitted. I didn't even need to adjust the gear mechanisms for it worked perfectly for my needs, and it is only occasionally when I am unable to select the appropriate ratio of my choice. I am now no longer embarrassed to let people see my crankset. I have also upgraded the brakes to 1995 STX-RC cantilevers which have not been fettled with at all. I find that the springyness of the lively ride of this quality steel frame really puts a smile on my face as I cruise the local highways and byways. I have resisted the temptation to add telescopic suspension forks to the bike as I feel it would detract somewhat from the ride characteristics that first inspired me to purchase this steed. I am sure it will serve me well in years and decades to come, though recently I have been thinking about the aquisition of a rigid chromium-molybdenum alloy of steel Kona to extend my current plethora of steel beasts which adorn the inside of my shed. However I am not sure whether I will be able to afford the excruciatingly long periods of time that will be required in order to maintain its pristine condition, as I already spend far too long on trivial matters of this nature at the current moment. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
hardcore
a weekend warrior
from canada
Date Reviewed: October 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i got my hard rock bout 3 years ago, and absolutely rode the shi-t out of it.. and well im sad to say, it showed very much..this year i had to drop at least 250 bucks into the damn thing! i havent been impressed at all. i foiled my original rim extremely fast, had to put a new rear derailer on it, a new cog set, and all that good stuff. the only thing that i can say good about this bike is that even though ive taken a few spills, the heavy as-s frame hasent bent. i personally was extremely disapointed in this bike, and have been totally turned off of specilaized... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ROBERT RICO
a cross-country rider
from SAN ANTONIO,TX
Date Reviewed: October 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a hardrock sport and a hardrock comp fs. Theses bike are made very well.
The A1 frame is excellent. I ride hard and I am a big guy but even thouth the A1
has taken every thing I throw had it So far. The only problem I have had is with the rear rim. it can't seem to stop benting. Also when I first got the bike the crack arm came loose and damaged the arm. A new one was in order and the place(SUN AND SKI) where I got bike ordered me a new one with out a problem. The SPORT is also a great bike. I only rode this bike two times. This is a great entry level bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
peter mazzei
a weekend warrior
from hendersonville,nc
Date Reviewed: October 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Hardrock GX[its a 98] for 489 dollars and its a godd@mn tank !!
The only things ive replace are numerous tubes and one new chain.
I have beaten up my hardrock up pretty bad and its still in good condition.
Ihave taken this bike through every imaginable conditon known toman.
FIVE FLAMING CHILIS | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
William Smith
a cross-country rider
from Santa Maria, CA
Date Reviewed: October 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my 99 Hardrock about a in September of '98. I have taken it to Figueroa Mountain, Caliente' Mountain, Islay Creek, Montana de Oro, and Red Rock Canyon. I upgraded the front fork to the 1998 Manitou Pro, and I have to say with a few other minor upgrades (clipless pedals, bar-ends, ect.) this bike performs like a high-end pro-bike. With my 6'6 250lb frame, the 23 frame bike handles my weight, the trails, and challenges I throw at it like a champ! The only thing that keeps this bike from getting 5 stars from me is the stock componentry (derailluers, shifters, cranks, forks) that come standard with the Hardrock. This is a personal feeling, and not indicative of the overall performance of the stock bike. I am a well toned, large rider who requires a bike with stronger, stiffer components. A 44 or 46 tooth Big gear would be nice. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a cross-country rider
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Have had my Hardrock for just over a year now, with no hassles AT ALL, did upgrade the budgo tyres it came with to Specialized Team Control and Team Master (Kevlar beaded of course). Don't like the gripshift much or the Acera-X shit, this is an awesome handling frame looking for better componentry. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a weekend warrior
from Calgary Canada
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the Hardrock sport Fs 5 months ago and it is awesome. For the money
I have gone pretty much everywhere in the Rocky mountains my buddies and their pro bikes have gone .This bike is seriousley as tough as they get I even competed in a race with this bike.I have just bought an ultra light Marin. I am keeping this bike as a trainer chances are this bike will outlast my new one :~)
Well done specialised | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bernard
a weekend warrior
from Fremont, CA
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Hardrock FS 99 about a month ago and I'm in love with it! It was a steal for $380. I don't know if the RockShox Jett C in the front is going to keep me happy for too long cause I've been hearing elastomer shocks suck, but I have yet to try anything else on the rough stuff. One thing that is not too great about the bike is the rim strength of the Weinmann 519. I bent the rear after a landed weird from a little bunny hop. being 162lbs is not too bad right.?... Well besides the rim thing, I love the bike. I'd suffer 4 burning poo attacks for the Hardrock FS 99. ( from eating them peppers ) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
GREG
a weekend warrior
from Western AustrALIA
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Background- I am reasonably fit and have done quite a bit of road riding in the past. I am 199cm (6'5) and weigh around 90 kilo's, i.e. not a light weight. I was looking for an entry level bike that would give both performance and value. My new Hardrock A1 FS delivers the goods! I have hammered this bike but I'm afraid I have come of second best. I upgraded the bars to Azonic 1.5 riser bars which give the riding position I need (21 frame). This upgrade made all the difference and has made this a very comfortable ride. Everything on this bike does the its job admirably and looks as though it will for some time to come. I thoroughly recomend this bike as an entry level machine. I spent $790 on this bike (rrp. $1100 AUS.) and don't regret a cent of it. Thankyou Specialised! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a weekend warrior
from Texas
Date Reviewed: September 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a Hardrock AX FS (aluminum & f.suspension) last spring. I wasn't sure how I would take to MTB but I wanted to give it a try on a decent bike. I looked at several bikes in my price range and went with the Specialized. It was last years model and I got a good deal. I rode most of the summer on the street and a few alleys and then ventured onto the local trails. I found out that the stock Hardrocker tires were not any good on our hardpack. Maybe they work better in loamy soil? I upgraded to the Smoke/Dart combo with great results. The RS Indy is a lower end shock but it works very well for me. I have bottomed it out a time or two, but was glad to have what travel it gave me. The truest test that I have put it through was a 12 mile desert canyon trail with some narly rocks, lots of ruts, and nasty pokey things. I hooked up with an experienced rider that rides the trail regularly and was glad to let him lead. I'm glad to say that I kept up with his fancier ($) Cannondale. While I may have been younger and maybe(?) in a little better shape, the bike did most of the work the way I rode. I didn't always take the best line, blazed a trail or two through the mesquite, and just didn't always see that Wow! That was a big rock. The bike worked with only a slight adjustment for ghost shifting once. The Cannodale's derailler clattered the whole way (not neccasarily its fault). The bike worked when I goofed. I will work on upgrading the components over time. I am not displeased with any at this time but things wear out or break with time. There are more expensive bikes and I may own one someday and there are cheaper bikes that perform just as well I'm sure. I am very pleased with this bike. A good starter bike that has a strong frame that will allow endless upgrades. I had a great time, went as fast or faster as I wanted (or needed) to, climbed, rode over, or bashed through terrain and vegatation, and still had a bike with all the pieces in the right place (and all my pieces in the right place also). Four flamers for a good, solid, reliable, and reasonably priced bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
julius n. lisk
a weekend warrior
from dayton oh.
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I LIKED the looks of this spec. hardrock, i have road other
specialized bikes in the past and have liked them also.ihave road other mtn. bikes also but i like bikes that are made in america at least the frame is this is a very good entry level bike to start out with. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Colin Camacho
a cross-country rider
from Kentucky
Date Reviewed: August 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike rocks! This is a great entry-level bike. My '98 Hardrock Sport has been great so far--especially for the price. At only 500 bucks it is definitely worth it. Most of these that come with a shock are low-class Indy's or something. But somehow the shop where I got it, it came with a Manitou Pro. Everything has been good. It shifts great, has a durable frame, nice braking. I've only had one problem. A few weeks ago my Weinmann rear rim got all out of wack. My friend hit it crossing my path. It has been trued the best it can be. I think I will upgrade it to a Mavic 221. I'm real tough on my bike. It has held up well on the road, and has gone through off-road torture. It is definitely worth it. I give it 4 flaming chilis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lloyd Gomez
a weekend warrior
from Gilroy, CA
Date Reviewed: August 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a 1997 Hardrock GX (our local bikestore was having a closeout sale) for only $199 and for those of you who want a no-nonsense bike and are on a VERY limited budget, this is the only one to get. The cromoly frame can take some pretty good punishment but the pedals could use some upgrading. Overall, this is a great bike for this price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy Cooper
a weekend warrior
from Front Royal ,VA
Date Reviewed: August 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 1997 Hardrock Sport FS it kicks! I have Indy s shocks on them i weigh
126 and they rarley bottom out! The bike is excellent for trail riding and that is what i use it for !!!!!! It is a cromoly frame and it is still lite! THIS BIKE KICKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darrell
a weekend warrior
from CT
Date Reviewed: August 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got the new 1999 HardRock FS for $380 and it's great for the money that I spent. The new Rock Show Jett C is also good for the price. The components work fine and I've had no problems with them for the first 25 miles. The new colors are great and the grip shifters are extremely smooth. All my friends have $500-700 bikes with similar features and I can always keep up with my HardRock. A great bike for biker that goes out once or twice a week. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a weekend warrior
from Boise, ID
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
First real bike I owned was a 92 Hardrock. Heavy and extremely rigid with smooth gripshift (I've grown to detest gripshift), but the cro-moly frame survived many hard crashes, so I can't complain too much. Went to upgrade this year and thought about a Stumpjumper, but I went with a GT Avalanche--better bargain. For weekend double and singletracks--it's a good enough bike, but if you are even half way serious about biking--get something better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Valle
a weekend warrior
from Ft Collins, CO, USA
Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've used this bike since '93 around town on weekdays and uphills on weekends.
It is my first high-end (other than Huffy) bike so it seemed very nimble and nice. After 5 years, I find it heavy, components worn down, and color poor. Average bicycle, I'd like to try out a Mongoose aluminum with front suspension. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a weekend warrior
from Belmont,NH
Date Reviewed: July 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased 2 hardrocks, 1 for myself(A1) and 1 for my fiancee(sport). we just got back from first weekend trips and both bikes ran perfectly. both felt good on and off road. We are new to mb'ing and loved our trouble free trips. Yes bikes are not top end but dollar for dollar there was no other bikes that were close in comparison. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Maurits Polak
a racer
from Netherlands
Date Reviewed: July 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm riding a Hardrock AX for about a year now. Overall a nice bike, great frame! The parts however I am less pleased about. I don't know if it is caused by my
fierce pedalling or by the poor quality, but I have to do some serious adjusting
after every ride. Takes a lot of time, which is annoying when you want to take it out for a spin... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael McKibben
a weekend warrior
from Minneapolis, MN
Date Reviewed: June 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a '97 Hardrock FS in April of '97. My initial intent was pull my toddler around in a Burley, I have fallen in love with trail riding. The Hardrock is a fairly good beginner bike, but at 6' 3 230 lbs, I'm a little hard on the bike. I only get to trail ride about 2 times, but have been know to do 26 miles in Chequamegon and Superior National Forest in one weekend. It seems that after every tough ride, my bike is back in the shop for something (thank god for free 2 yr. tune ups). The worst component on the bike is without a doubt the plastic pedals. Mine split within about 2 weeks. I have seen replaced them with Bear Claws that I really love (although hard on chins and calfs in wipeouts). The crank has a been replaced once, and I about ready for a 2nd one. It really groans and creaks on climbs. The most serious problem I have had is ghost shifting on climbs. Up Shifting on descents have help take out chain slack, and this in turn seems to help the ghost shifting, but there is nothing more disappointing that making it half way up a tough technical climb then to have a un-invited shift occur. All and all, the bike is not bad, but I can hardly wait until I seriously break the bike so I can justifiy a new (higher end)bike to my wife. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Oscar
a weekend warrior
from Sunrise, Fl
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just bought my first Hardrock A1. No complaints here at all. GREAT bike, great price, good components. It does what I need it to without fail. I shopped for weeks before deciding to go with Specialized and don't regret it for one second. Highly recommended for non-competitors (that is, not doing it for the money) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a cross-country rider
from San Diego, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently bought a '98 Hardrock A1 for $399 (no suspension) and really love it. The bike is light, comes with decent components (shimano STX and Alvio) and is a lot of fun to ride. I am planning on getting a suspension fork and then it will really kick ass. For the price, you can't beat this bike. Specialized gives you a lot more for the money than any other bike company. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JB Lind
a weekend warrior
from Train Stop Inn
Date Reviewed: May 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Specialized Hard Rock Sport FS is an awesome machine. It's super chro-moly frame andsweet tires get it through the thickest of ruts. It is also excellent for going head first over the handle bars into a ditch. I highly advise the Hard Rock!! It has good components, V-brakes, Specialized seat and pedals. The only thing I don't line is that it makes me go over the handlebarsall the time. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Bell
a cross-country rider
from Phila, pa.
Date Reviewed: May 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My AX1 is one of the best deals in the industry! Although it came with plastic peddles and cheap componites.The INDY XC fork is fine for my ridding style,I m not a racer. I paid $369 for the bike and fork. The dealer also replaced the crankset,derailuers with LX parts. I then purchased SCOTT HOTROD BAR.I now have agreat bike for under $530. I also own a Cannondale SM500, the Cannondale isnt half the bike the HARDROCK is. THANKYOU SPECIALIZED FOR A BOMBPROOF BIKE! Next one will be M2. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from USA
Date Reviewed: May 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '92 Hard Rock Ultra with (easily) over 2500 miles on it. Guess what components are new? NONE; that's right, nada. Zilch. The only changes since day one were both tubes and putting on cages - to keep my feet planted. Oh yeah - I had it tuned up after about 1500+ miles and sitting on my porch for 6 months.
This bike is BOMBPROOF. I have ridden this poor old thing into the ground, and it has yet to fail me. Went road riding it last week and smoked one guy on a Gary Fisher and another on a brand new Specialized RockHopper.
Alas, the old gal may get a rest soon. I have the early signs of New Bike Fever. I will definitely stay Specialized! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremy Peterson
a weekend warrior
from Germany
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm a beginner, so I don't know quite everything. I bought a 1998
Hard Rock A1 F2 in Dec. 97 before I came to Germany and I ride on some
pretty tough trails about 2-3 times a week. The bike is great. The
Indy C shock is perfect for my style and it is lighter than my friend's
Cannondale, so I can't complain about that. It has never let me down
and I recommend it to anyone who wants an aluminum bike with a decent
front shock for under $600. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Garbo
a cross-country rider
from Portugal Cove, Newfoundland, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
It kix. Mad in Manhatten has been smoking some bad shit! In the first few months that I had my Hardrock, it carried me to a local highschool campionship. The only problem that I had was that the fork snapped (my fault, I ran into a tree). The only thing that I would change is the fork, it is a bit choppy but quite adequate for the average weekend warrior/thrasher. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
THE MONK
a weekend warrior
from NEW YORK CITY
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Last summer I bought a Hardrock AX with a Qudra 21 on it. I don't think that you can find a better entry level bike in the $500 dollar price range.
I've put allot of miles on this bike in the past year and have no major complaints. The aluminum frame is what I really like about the bike. I know that the components suck compared to some $1000 high end bikes that you rich wanabe racers might own but i don't care. I mostly use the bike for exersise and to commute. However, I plan on doing some serious trail riding this summer and I might upgrade the drive train and throw on some V brakes.
I wish I didn't buy a bike with a threaded headset but I got a good stem for a great price. I just want to say to all of the people who write reviews and trash our low end bikes are all F*!@king A!@holes. Nobody cares if your bike is XTR'd up with a $700 fork. Unless your a REAL racer you wasted your money and would get robbed for your pretty bike in NYC anyway so shut up and get a life. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ray
a weekend warrior
from augusta, ga
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
as a student you don't get too much time to ride.....bought a hardrock gx for 299. awesome price for a awesome bike! it's not high speed like some of the racers but for some weekend riding it's fantastic! strong enough to take on the trails and light enough to cruise the street. only bad thing is plastic crap pedals and seat sucks. but all that can be taken care of by buying some clipless pedals (performance bike got good shoe/pedals deals) and a gel seat cover by velo. outstanding package for someone who loves to ride but on a tight budget | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
NeverCouldNever
a cross-country rider
from Massachusetts
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my Hardrock AX FS as a 1997 leftover last fall. It was not expensive and has done everything I've asked of it. I've been riding 3-4 times a week, and it has held up well. The stock brake pads (Shimano) need to replaced right away to get any braking at all, and while you're at it, replace the straddle cables with a decent aftermarket setup. The Alivio drivetrain, for all it's cheapness, shifts really well. I put a 14-32 cogset on in place of the 11-28, and added bar ends, and changed out the stock tires, which were pretty lame. Problems I have had are: 1) ghost shifting (need to keep the bottom-mounted rear derailleur cable clean) 2) pedals (they are made of plastic and the bearings were pretty well trashed when I put clipless on) and 3) had to replace the bottom bracket after 7 months. That may sound like a lot of stuff, but I'm weigh 220 and have ridden in a lot of bad conditions. Overall, I'd get it again in a minute -- unless I win the lottery, in which case I'll have Speedgoat build me a Tazmon! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Linda
a weekend warrior
from Berkeley, CA
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a new HardRock Sport. Bought it with a discount coupon at REI for $230! I checked out Trek and Marin bikes and for the same money, I would have gotten lesser components. This bike has v-brakes, Alivio rear. Good frame. For someone like me, getting back into biking, it's a great bike. It's not hot enough for serious cyclists maybe, but if you're at the point where you're not sure just how serious you're gonna be, it's a good starting point. If I really get into it, I'll give it to my kid, and buy something with a good set of shocks (forks and seat) when I'm sure the investment will be worthwhile. For a casual rider, this is plenty bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle
a weekend warrior
from South Carolina
Date Reviewed: May 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a Hardrock A1 a few weeks ago, and I have been very pleased. I was planning to purchase the HardRock Sport, but was able to get an aluminum frame and better components for about $75 more...Pluses:
The bike is light and solid; shifts well with the Rapid Fire system; stops quickly with the V brakes; Stong & long crankset; great color;Minuses:
Plastic pedals. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a cross-country rider
from Fredericksburg, Va.
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
So far I havn't had any promlems with my bike. It's a '98 Hardrock FS Sport.
It's a well made bike, and dollar for dollar one of the best deals out there.
I plan on up grading most of the parts to XT And XTR when money is right. But for a new rider it lives up to the name. And now for the plug of the bike shop that i bought it from. Old Town Bikes in Fredericksburg, Va are great people to work with..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
anthony
a weekend warrior
from new jersey
Date Reviewed: May 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I owne the Hardrock 98 this bike is awsome!!!!!! It rides great and I think you get a lot for the money (cro-moly frame,decent crank from specialized and all other shimano parts are all right). I paid $269 fot it at my local bike shop.I compared it to the Schwinn,Mongoose,Trek and Raleigh bikes and spec by spec and overall ride the Specialized ruled !!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stegs
a weekend warrior
from Ballarat, Australia
Date Reviewed: April 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had a Hardrock GX for about six months, and for a beginner like me who isn't exactly loaded, this bike rules. Good spec for the price, rides well. A bike that could do with a bit of an upgrade latter on however. For $650 Australian, it is great value. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam
a cross-country rider
from Calgary, Alberta
Date Reviewed: April 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is perfect for beginners. The low-end parts are pathetic and wear out fast, but I learned a lot about bikes trying to get them to work. The frame is incredibley strong and well-built. After I bailed on a steep downhill, the bike fell about 35 feet, hitting rocks and trees along the way. It suffered only a minor dent. The geometry on my '93 model is awesome and provides a very low, racy position. The Duotrack suspension fork is a joke, mine no longer gets any travel. The bike is very heavy as well. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave Maclean
a weekend warrior
from Henniker NH
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Tomarrow I will be bidding my Hard Rock good bye after 10 years (did you hear me!!!!! 10 years!) of hard riding. Before I upgrade, I must sing it's praises and clarrify it's problems...no one knows this bike better than me. As you read various other Hard Rock testimonials, I will agree with my fellow riders that this bike is tough. I have smashed this bike into a thousand trees and into a million brooks. I broke the frame once in a crash too brutal to talk about and the nice folks at Specialized fixed it free with no questions. I have fixed or replace almost every componant on this bike, including the frame, except the handle bars. Trust me, its a tough bike.
But the toughness comes at a price...it is a very heavy bike. A leaden bike. If you want a bike that climbs...do not get this bike.
Ah, but the places and single track that I have gone in this bike...many a friend has had to start the long walk out while I have peddled my hard rock over yet another log.
If you're looking for a very tough first bike that can last you a few years (or ten years) get this one...it will get you out of the woods. Maybe not before your friends but almost every time.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nicholas Tucci
a weekend warrior
from N.C.
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
For a beginner bike it is excellent. I started Mtn. Biking and loved the Hardrock. I would reccomend this bike to any beginner because of the low cost and the quality. E-Mail me!!!! I want to here all about what everybody thinks about it. I have ridden my bike every weekend and also throughout the summer. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wood
a
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: March 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Good prices. Good frame. I bought it for 250 it was orginaly 325 i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i i ii i i | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Raw Dude
a weekend warrior
from CA of USA
Date Reviewed: March 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Got a Hard Rock AX for my son's 9th birthday. The kid is an animal and the bike does everything he asks - singletrack, speed, technical, climbing. It takes gobs of abuse and hard riding. He keeps up with me & my buddy both riding CDALE F700s (CAAD3). This is a PERFECT bike for learners. His brothers have CDALE M300s (CAAD2), and I'd say this bike is as good if not better. We am switching from Cannondale to Specialized. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
elliott
a cross-country rider
from USofA
Date Reviewed: February 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I LUV THIS THING. It was given to me 4 free, cuz my other one got thrashed and my insurance payed for it.
This Bike converted me to a bike fanatic, For any 11-16 yr.old that goes 2 the store or sumthing its prfect, and you can also you use it for competition, I lov thid bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: December 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 94 hard rock which was fine for the first 2 years when I hardly ever rode it. This year I've been doing more serious riding and I can't name a component on the bike that I am happy with, besides the Indy XC forks I bought as an upgrade. I would only recommend this bike for a beginner or as a frame. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason McRoy
a weekend warrior
from England
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
As you all probably know, I thrash my bikes loads! If anybody wants to write to
me, for any questions etc. etc. I will tell you about my Specialized`s. I enjoy
my M2 Stumpjumper, more than any of my bikes, but the HardRock is pretty
Shit-Hot for the price. It`s fairy light, and if you changed some of the parts
like F&R mechs, and cants, you will be impressed | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a weekend warrior
from scotts,mi
Date Reviewed: November 28, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The bike is great. It's my first mt. bike and it does everything I want it to. The derailers have needed a bit more adjustment than my mechanic (my Dad) had in mind. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett Serkez
a weekend warrior
from MA - USA
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the low-end hardrock, purchased new in 97 for $250. Mostly intended
for street riding with some off road. This bike is so much fun to ride it got me
back into riding. It is not optimal in all situations, but good in most, providing
a feeling of confidence.It rides well on the road, althought it does get a bit twitchy at higher speeds,
probably because of its heavy and knobby tires and shorter MTB fork. It
shifts well on the road but I've noticed an occasional mis-shift off-road and
at very low speed. Given the low-end derailers, I am very impressed as to
how well they work, this is not a major complaint.The brakes did work very well, but the wheels have built up dirt and brake
residue which I have not been able to remove effectiely. The brakes are
still fine but just not as good as when they were new.For the amount of money spent and the armount of fun that I have had, I
am very happy with the bike and would recommend it to anyone getting back
into riding or new to riding as a good all around performer. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Maurits Polak
a racer
from The Netherlands
Date Reviewed: August 31, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Here in the Netherlands this bike is the best you can get in its price range. I bought my Tweety Bird HardRock AX for $600. ( Yeah, I know these are absurd prices compared to the ones in the US...). Most of the time I drive on tarmac 'cause you don't get that much terrain here in the Neds. The highest so-called mountain in my region is only 80 meters high (or low, whatever suits you best). But when I do drive some terrain this bike beats the Giant ATX840, which is in the same price range around here, by far!
Well, now you know what a Dutch 'sort-of-flat-country boy' thinks of this bike. It's a great beginners item.
See ya. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Barron
a cross-country rider
from Birmingham, AL
Date Reviewed: August 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My wife and I each bought a 1997 Specialized Hardrock GXFSin April. (His - 20 and Hers - 13.5) I was getting into MTBing again, while this is her first mountain bike. We both love these bikes with a passion. As many people have said before, you get what you pay for. They aren't light-weights, and the componentry is mediocre, but this is definitely a case where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Our typical ride is a 17 mile loop which includes nearly every possible trail surface you can imagine, including lots of climbs and steep, rocky descents. We do this ride 2 - 4 times per week depending on our schedule, and the bikes have performed flawlessly. I'd say that twisty singletrack is where the Hardrock shines. Sure, they are entry level, but if you want bang for your buck these bikes are the way to go. We paid $439 apiece incl. front suspension. Joe | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hard Core MTBer
a racer
from The Steep Side of Town
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This Bike kicks ass! I ride it every day around the paved path by the
lake by my house. It ROCKS! It has Shimano components. They're the best!
Mines black and its wicked. I have a Rock Shock on it too. Rock Shock's the BEST! It really soaks up the cracks in the sidewalk.
If your an extreme rider like me, you need this bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MR. D
a cross-country rider
from Cornwall Ont. Canada
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've read some of the reviews below and I have to agree that stock, this bike might disappoint some riders who are looking for a rig with higher end performance. All I can say is you get what you pay for. I bought a 94 Hardrock Ultra for 450 bucks Canadian which is a pretty good deal. It was outfitted with mostly Acera-X parts which I agree are crap. But never having owned a really good bike before I thought it was the greatest thing since sliced bread at the time. I've owned the bike going on two years now and have upgraded just about everything but the handlebar, cables and those horrendous Acera-X cantilevers. The main reason I like this bike so much is primarily because of the frame. Specialized just knows what it's doing. I think they realized that people on a budget were going to do upgrades big time so they paid a lot of attention to the geometry and the workmanship of the cromoly frame which (thank God) is double butted. I have some buddies who work at the local LBS and they bitch all day long about how many GT frames keep breaking (at least 6 in the last year) but when you say Specialized they give you nothing but a smile. It's true that the frame is slightly heavier than most, but the thicker tubing makes the bike virtually bombproof. Geometry is definitely Xcountry making it less stable on long downhills but that also makes it kick butt in tight twisty stuff which, around here is all I ever ride (Canada rules!). In short, if your looking for a entry level rig that is worth upgrading later, give this bike a serious look. Specialized also makes the Hardrock with an Aluminum frame now for 97. Anybody try one out yet? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pearson
a racer
from U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: August 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a '90 Hardrock(added front suspension) and use it for everyday riding. I have had some problems with parts, but not natural problems. They break because I beat the sh*t out of my bike. The bike is heavy for a race bike, so if you what to race get a stumpy or another bike with similar parts(stumpies kick a**)
I race a stumpy and that is a great race bike. I give it 5 chilies | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SEAN SMIT
a
from FAIRLY AGRESSIVE
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a Hard Rock GX and I am very happy with it. Being
my first bike in 13 years I've been able to take it to the
trails and ride like a mad man. The bike hasn't skiped a
beat. I will be looking at other specialized products when
I upgrade. Keep cranking out the metal!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Felipe Pardo
a cross-country rider
from Lexington,Ky
Date Reviewed: August 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Poor brakes, but very solid. Good for beginners | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Langrehr
a downhiller
from Abingdon, Maryland
Date Reviewed: July 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 94 hardrock which is I think real juck after the first 2 weeks of riding. The only good that could come out of this bike is that would be good for a beginer or a frame cause the components are real crap. After 3 years I have had to replace the rear and front brakes. I put alivio on the front and deore lx on the rear. Both of them have richey red pads which are the best thing I ever did for the bike. I sugest not getting the hardrock modle in the future because it is over priced. I think that my next bike will be a Fish Big Sur or a rockhopper a1 comp fs. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Schumacher
a weekend warrior
from Buffalo, NY
Date Reviewed: July 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great intro bike. Brakes need some work as do shifters. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Travis Fowler
a cross-country rider
from USA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purchased the Hardrock AX. I was on a tight budget so value was very important to me. I rode Gary Fisher, Trek, and Diamond Back bikes that were of similar price and they didn't compare. My dealer had this bike listed at $430 and I got it for $390. What this bike lacks in stock components, it makes up for in upgradability. I would much rather upgrade my already light aluminum bike than a 30 pound cro-mo heavyweight. Thsi bike is highly recommended! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a weekend warrior
from New York
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently bought the HardRock AX FS. It seems to be rare - I have only seen it in the bike shop where I bought it. It's the aluminum frame AX, with front suspension. So far, I have been very happy with it...the frame is lighter than the GX, it has front shocks, and the price is right. I would recommend this bike for first timers or moderate riding. It certainly is a capable bike. It's not in the Specialized catalog, but see if you can get it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric Pennell
a downhiller
from Pointe Claire, Quebec, Canada
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the 1996 version of the Hardrock GX and I think it's great. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonathan
a weekend warrior
from Redmond, Washington
Date Reviewed: June 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Overall, the HardRock is a great bike. I've had my GSX for about 2 years and it's been very solid. Some of the components could be better, but they're adequate. The HardRock works great for your basic road riding. Once you get some good tires on it and add some accesories, it works well for moderate trail riding. I do wish that the frame was lighter, but I don't have many complaints. Good for beginners, but if you're getting serious, go for something a little more expensive. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from So. California
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Hard Rock Comp back in '88 and it's still getting me out and about in the city and off-road. I lived right near the ocean and the elements took a toll on the bike but it has lasted a lot longer than expected. I reccomend the bike for 1st time Mtn. bikers. I'm ready for a full suspension bike and more serious riding! Great bike! I'm satisfied. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tim
a cross-country rider
from chicago
Date Reviewed: May 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Save up your money (at least a $1000) and buy a REAL mountain bike! You only get pig iron at this price point. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JUSTIN BREWSTER
a
from WISCONSIN
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I GOT A 95 HARDROCK FS ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO. IT WAS GOOD FOR EASY RIDING, BUT IT IS HEAVY AND THE FORKS SUCK !! I RACED IT IN MUDDERS DAY AND HAD A HARD TIME. DONT BUY THIS BIKE UNLESS YOU ARE A CITY RIDER. ON THE + SIDE, IT IS DURABLE. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Larry
a weekend warrior
from Long Island, NY
Date Reviewed: May 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I don't have the FS, I have the GX. The only difference is the lacking of a front suspension, otherwise the bikes are exactly the same. I ride 100+ miles a week on the road and 30-60 on the weekends off road. I am extremely happy with the handling and the balance of the bike. I can't believe how smooth and effecient the shifting is!!I very happy that the bike came in a 23 frame too!! I checked around and not many bikes are offered in this size. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peat Bakke
a weekend warrior
from Portland, OR
Date Reviewed: May 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have an old '91 Hardrock which got me into mountain biking -- it
was an awesome bike for a beginner. No suspension, but the frame and
components held up quite well in 90% of the situations I got myself
into. It was on the heavy side, but it was a good bike. I'd give it
four as a first bike, two or a one for an experienced rider. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Staneland
a racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: May 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have an older model than the one pictured but it is still great. Mine is th e Hard Rock Ultra. I bashed my Hard Rock all over the place. Racing, trials, jumping, training it does it all. I've upgraded certain parts to make it lighter like, an STX rear derailer and shifters, a Vetta seat, Panaracer Smoke and Dart tires, and many different seat posts. I always seem to bend them even though I am only 175 lbs. It's a great bike for beginners which was what I was when I got it. It has predictable handling, decent power transfer, and dispite it's 28 lb. weight, it can be thrown around with ease. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a weekend warrior
from MA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Amazing. I bought a '94 rigid HardRock 3 years ago, and it has taken more abuse then I can shake a stick at. I've only had to replace one crankarm, the pedals, ONE tire, and a brake pad. It took all my beginner abuse, then my trick abuse, and now its taking trial abuse, from a 220 pound rider. I'm getting a '97 Hoo Koo E Koo sometime this week, but the HardRock will be the commuting bike. Get this bike if you want to get into MTB'ing!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kent
a weekend warrior
from utah
Date Reviewed: April 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This bike is awsome if you don't own one get of your butt and go buy one now | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
billy jean
a racer
from botswana
Date Reviewed: April 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
terrible bike the shox suck so do the hubs if you own this bike kill yourself! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
C.W.
a weekend warrior
from Iowa
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a 96' HardRock GS for my daughter on a close out sale for $249, the price was right but you get what you pay for. Its a solid bike, with a good frame but needs some upgrades. The bike is to small for me but still doesnt feel comfortable on trails, but is a dependable road cruiser, well worth the money. | | Overall Rating: |
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