Recreational XC Hardtail
A reliable, efficient and trail-tough hardtail that packs a ton of performance into a light and easy-to-love package. Maybe you're just rediscovering riding, or perhaps just discovering the unbeatable joy of exploring long, fast, sweet trails. With nearly 25 years of continual refinement and race-bred performance trickled down from our Stumpjumper line, the Rockhopper is a reliable, efficient and trail-tough hardtail that packs a whole lot of performance into one easy package. The Rockhopper's entirely redesigned frame is lighter than ever and classically tuned for trail riding, with just the right blend of quickness and composure.
Submitted by
Bodie6
a Cross Country Rider
from Fredonia, NY Date Reviewed: October 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Eastside Overland Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$699.00
Purchased At:
Hollyloft Ski and Bi
Strengths:
Frame
Disc Brakes
Suspension
Weaknesses:
Tires
Shifters
Similar Products Used:
Haro V-1
Bike Setup:
Stock (for now)
Bottom Line:
The 2010 Rockhopper Comp Disc is an excellent hardtail bike. I took it out on some extremely wet and muddy trails, and it performed beautifully. Although the stock components are not top of the line, I have no real complaints. Since my previous bike had V-brakes, the disc brakes are a major upgrade (they worked wonders in the sloppy trail conditions). My only real complaint is that the tires are not the best for climbing. However, after you put on a more aggressive set of tires, this bike is a total beast. There was minimal chain slap, and the suspension made the ride smooth and comfortable. If you're looking to buy a sturdy xc hardtail bike, then you could do a lot worse than the rockhopper comp disc. I am extremely happy that I bought this bike, and I am looking forward to taking it out on many more adventures in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fiendbear
a Cross Country Rider
from San Mateo County, California USA Date Reviewed: May 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere at Skeggs
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
San Mateo County, CA
Strengths:
Light weight 25.5 pounds, 2Bliss ready, superb handling, predictable, super fast, great climber
Weaknesses:
Juicy 3s are just OK.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
I have the 2008 Rockhopper Pro. The 2008 color is fantastic. The M4 frame is one of the finest I've ever ridden - not too aggressive, not too relaxed, but it finds just the right balance. A good selection of parts compliments the frame. Some folks complain about the tires, but these low knob tires are made for flying thru the hardpack and hitting the tops of bumps, not for grinding thru sand, mud or soft pack conditions. Always a tradeoff with tires - I prefer kick arse speed and don't mind giving up some traction in return.
The Rockhopper Pro makes me want to climb, climb, climb. This lightweight hard tail puts just about any full sus bike to shame when it comes to climbing. I tried several hard tails and the Pro was just so much better than anything else I demo'd. I run the tires at minimum psi and it just seems to fly downhill too, with no pinch punctures yet.
Definitely 5 chilis all around for the RH Pro. This bike just feels full of life - it is impossible to sit quietly and move slowly. This bike encourages speed. The only real down side is the confidence it gives you, sometimes outstrips the skill and experience of the rider!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Metal Matrix
a Weekend Warrior
from Stuttgart, Germany Date Reviewed: November 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Black Forest
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1590.00
Purchased At:
Bikesport, Stuttgart
Strengths:
I bougth the int. version (Germany; 1250 €)
lightweight frame worth upgrading, good geometry
Weaknesses:
none, yout get more "bling-parts" from other companys though...
Similar Products Used:
Rockhopper Comp 2001
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to full XT 770, Stylo Cranks, DT SWISS 340 hubs, Syntace P6 seatpost
Bottom Line:
The Rockhopper is everything but specialized. I don´t see it so much as the cheap Stumpjumper, but more as Specialized´s offer for people that want a true "do it all" hardtail. Geometry is a good compromise between relaxed but still stretched. Long frame with short stem! The bike is quiet light and with a few changes you might get well under 11 kg. Reba fork and Juicy breaks are faultless. With bigger tires (FastTraks are useless) and OEM bar it´s ready for agressive trailriding. With a straight bar, light tires and maybe a longer (100mm) stem it could make a reasonably good xc-racer. Perfect bike for starters and hardtail-fans.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
texaspromtb
a Downhiller
from San Antonio, Texas USA Date Reviewed: July 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Kelly Creek Ranch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Helotes Bicycle
Strengths:
Absolutely love this frame! Had the 2004 Hardrock Sport in a 19" and bombed the local trails on it, until I cracked it...damn hardtails! Built this 2003 Rockhopper Pro up from parts off the old bike and some new.
Weaknesses:
I moved to a 17" to hopefully get a little more control over the bike in the fast singletrack....seems like the lateral strength of the frame is slightly compromised when you are riding at a decent speed...I've slid out the rear of the bike more than enough times to know that it takes a delicate touch to guide this rocket!
Similar Products Used:
2004 hardrock sport (with some upgrades), test-rode 2008 enduro sl, stumpy fsr, felt virtue team, and cannondale prophet.
Bike Setup:
A1 frame (silver anodized), rock shox judy sl, shimano spd clipless pedals, avid bb-7 mechanical discs, mavic ex325 disc rims, and geax barromarathoner tires...also running all XT...
Bottom Line:
This bike weighs in at a remarably light weight... 25.7 lbs. I am very impressed with the handling on the frame and love the acceleration potential: this bike will get up and go! The main point is that this is a pro bike at an unbelievably cheap price....awesome!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cagastineau
a Weekend Warrior
from Somerville, MA Date Reviewed: June 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Source - Overla
Strengths:
This is my first upper line bike since coming back to biking from childhood. This is a lightweight, fairly well fit factory bike. I haven't needed any upgrades or major services yet, but that might change soon.
Weaknesses:
The front shifter takes a bit too much push for my taste in gaining the top gear. My disc brakes (first ever), after two years, still have a bit of squeal when braking hard and the saddle is definitely one of the most uncomfortable ones I've ever ridden. Recently my bike has developed a squeaking and clicking sound when rotating the left crank. I need to take it in to the bike shop and have it checked out. The crank and pedal are tight, so perhaps the BB is soon to be in BB heaven.
FRONT HUB Specialized Hi Lo disc, 32h, CNC flange and disc mount, polished races, alloy QR
REAR HUB Shimano FH-M475L, cassette, disc, 32h, QR
SPOKES 1.8mm (15g) stainless, black
FRONT TIRE Specialized Fast Trak, 26x2.0", 60TPI, aramid bead
REAR TIRE Specialized Fast Trak, 26x2.0", 60TPI, aramid bead
TUBES Specialized schraeder valve
SADDLE Specialized Body Geometry, MTB
SEAT POST Specialized MTB butted 6061, two bolt micro adjust, 30.9mm
Bottom Line:
So far I've used it on both road and off-road. Rides well with both. Great bike to start off with, but has some room for improvement in most areas of components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
darren
a Cross Country Rider
from hertfordshire, england Date Reviewed: May 25, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
marshalls,welwyn
Strengths:
frame weight and geometry.reba sl forks and avid 5 disc brakes.price for wholeround spec good.nice colour very stealthy
Weaknesses:
front mech /crank and tyres,but when broken will upgrade to full xt anyway
standard 2007 spec,reba sl,avid 5's,xt rear,deore front mech/shifters/crank.specialized hubs and tyres with mavic rims
Bottom Line:
for a sub £950 bike the rockhopper takes a lot to beat.with the m4 light weight frame and bang on geometry it makes this bike a nimble and responsive ride (specialy at high speed)so much that it carves up the trail spot on.i have found this bike is so easy to throw around its almost like a jump bike aswell as a xc hardtail.i wouldn't say its as comfortable on long rides as my p7 pro but its defitnatly a much easyer bike to ride specialy uphill.if you can pick up a 2007 rockhopper pro then grab it as the 2008 is not as nice colour wise and comes with the cheaper avid 3's not the 5's like the 2007.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy H
a Weekend Warrior
from Hampshire, UK Date Reviewed: May 16, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
lightweight, strong, sound drivetrain, good brakes
Weaknesses:
Tyres prone to puncture (light but thin), detailed styling fussy, poor standard pedals. Paint finish nice but not sure of how hard wearing it is (anodised blue/grey). Would be nice to have a brighter choice of colour!
Similar Products Used:
GT Aggressor, Trek 6700, Marin Nail Trail
Bike Setup:
2008 UK version, Thomson elite seatpost, Slim Jim mags, Charge Spoon saddle
Bottom Line:
Tried a few bikes before settling on this one and very happy with the decision. The bike is light & fast enough that my transition from an old Diamondback meant I had trouble steering into corners (always going fast & wide). I love the feel of it and use it on XC & orienteering races as well as commutes. Detailed styling is a little fussy for me but as I replaced the seat & post anyway (persoanl preference only), it's a little more toned down now. Contrary to others I love the Avid brakes and after 2000 miles they're still going strong on the original pads. The best bike I've had and still look forward to riding it. Replaced the tyres after having multiple thorn punctures and now use Schwalbe Big Apples for the commute & Bonty Mud X's for the crap. Stock tyres used ocassionally but willl be replaced with something for the summer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakville, WA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Capitol Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Used... Online purchase
Strengths:
Super strong and good looking red frame with nice graphics. Handles technical single track better than I can! 2 inch tires are super grippy, even in mud. Specialized is good at building bikes. Marzzochi fork is supreme! Avid BB5's are pretty good introduction to the disc brake market.
Weaknesses:
DX rear derailleur skips on occasion when it is full of mud.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000, Rockhopper A1FS
Bike Setup:
Stock 2005 Pro Disc, all stock except upgraded crankset from previous owner.
Bottom Line:
I spent a month steadily researching the $500 used bike market and kept coming back to the Rockhopper. I found the comp disc on line and bought it quickly 'cause it was such a good deal. I would recommend this bike to any singletrack/urban sport rider or weeked warrior. The geometry provides for a sweet ride. Minus one chili for the derailleur.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Cohen
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn, NY USA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Point, Wahwayanda St. Park, Stillwell loop
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Forest Hills, Queens
Strengths:
Frame Geometry, Light Weight, Braking,
Weaknesses:
Gears and derailuers
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche
Bike Setup:
Stock, rear light (for city night riding)
Bottom Line:
Love this bike. This was a big upgrade from my 1997 GT. Hits and lands jumps much better than my last bike. I had problems with chain suck from day one!!! It never got fixed with three trips to the bike store. Specialized would not replace the gears though it started on my first ride. I took good care the gears, making sure to clean and lube the chain. Anyway, the store finally swapped out the rear cog for a new one and now she climbs awesome. Very stable bike. I recommend it for single track as well as urban riding. I usually don't drop anything over 3-4 feet (i'm not a pro). No complaints about the tires, though i have gotten many flats. My ability to ride and handle challenging terrain has greatly improved with this bike, and I'm not in the shape i used to be in, so I owe it all to the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tanner
a Weekend Warrior
from Gallatin, Tennessee, USA Date Reviewed: November 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
lock 4
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Biker Choice
Strengths:
alot!the brakes, forks are of good quality for the price,light 26 pounds, light rims and stought cranks.shifts pretty good too
Weaknesses:
the tires arnt real good.my first ride i put a big split in the tire.replaced it with a flakjacket tire from specialized.not good traction if you ride on wet ground.but, go ahead and ride them until they wear out.(wont be long)
Similar Products Used:
hardrock pro
Bike Setup:
stock.except for i put some clippless pedals on the thing.
Bottom Line:
this bike rules.ive done anything from small dirtjumps to cyclocross races.by the way i won the 18 and under class in the nashville cyclocross series on this baby.haha.feeel free to ride it hard and expect it to keep up.buy it, have fun and ride.by the way i have the 08 version
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad
a Weekend Warrior
from Milwaukee Date Reviewed: September 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Strengths:
The frame is sweet for the price and the shock is not that bad for the price, it actually has a decent lock out
Weaknesses:
The Juicy 3's that come with it are horrible. I went through 2 sets of brakes in 3 months, each replaced by SRAM. SRAM finally upgraded me to Juicy 7s, which are definately a lot better. The paint on the bike chips easily too, but that is not a big deal. The rims are weak, I have had to true them twice already and will upgrade them this winter
Similar Products Used:
Hardrock 04, Stumpjumper 02, Trek 6700 disc
Bike Setup:
Stock + Juicy 7s, Shimano M-540 pedals
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike for the price. Since I ride in the Midwest, I have no need for a full suspension. Compared to Trek and Giant for bikes at this price line, the Pro Disc has the best parts that come stock with bike and the bike is the lightest. I give it a 4 becaues of the stock brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Valdepenas
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbia, SC USA Date Reviewed: August 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Harbison Trails (proximity)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Bike To Nature in Lexington, SC
Strengths:
Lightweight frame; the bike has a good "feel" to it. Also, the color gives it character. One determining factor for my purchase was the fit and feel of the ride- great upright position that I was looking for. Juicy 3's brake smoothly and front forks are great; No squeaks. About 26-27 pounds.
Weaknesses:
1) Shimano Deore M-530 Front derailleur is "sticky", need to push lever a little harder than expected to shift to larger cog. 2) some front fork rub on brake apparatus initially due to alignment; problem was fixed by bike shop. There is still an occasional intermittent noise, but rarely now.
Similar Products Used:
Test rode and researched many bikes in various price ranges and purposes: 2007 Cannondale F4, F5 2007 Rockhopper base model 2007 Trek 6000 2006 Trek 4500 2007 Specialized Epic Expert 2006 Specialized Stumpy FSR Expert
Bike Setup:
Stock. Added Lizardskins chainstay protector and fork boots. Kept reflectors on (!) due to some night rides in the neighborhood. Will upgrade eventually, and front derailleur will be the first to go, but for now all is adequate. Seat is comfortable, so it will stay.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! I am even contemplating buying another exact model for family to ride with when they visit, or to keep at work if there are more 2007s. Definitely more $$$ for a hardtail, but this bike was perfect for a beginner mountain biker who was willing to spend more, but paid less than for a full-suspension (don't need all that). No buyer's remorse here, definitely recommend for quality (5/5), value due to cost(4/5).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
george lai
a Weekend Warrior
from flushing, ny Date Reviewed: July 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
stewart airport
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
bicycle habitat
Strengths:
Frame, light and responsive, you can feel the road "talk" to you. Forgiving when riding aggressively. Brakes, disc brakes feels nice and confident, though rear needs to be adjusted (not gripping till pressed 3/4 way in), but still brakes hard. I just prefer brakes to start responding about 1/3 of the way when activated. Love the color, juicy mango, yummy...
Weaknesses:
Pedals, originals that came with bike, what a joke, they're gone. Tires, knobs too small, not grippy enough on tough dirt. There is some noise coming from the front, whenever I finish riding hard, like hissing or the sound of air coming out of a small puncture, but they go away, so I don't know what it is.
Bike Setup:
rockhopper pro disc, stock specilized lo pro mag 2 pedals, purchased from the bike zoo, Knoxville, TN, of all places.
Bottom Line:
I was going to wait a little longer to give it a review, but I know the longer I ride, the better it will feel. Coming back to MTB after a 12 year break, I am begining to build up strength and agility, and this bike does respond to the way you ride. Its light frame and good geometry will match what you put into it. A little more $$$ than I wanted to spend, but I just had to have the M4 frame and the disk brakes. All the other components, although not top of the line, they do their job, and if needed, they can be replaced.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Weekend Warrior
from Broad Brook, CT Date Reviewed: June 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
favorite trail is my girl's tail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1049.00
Purchased At:
Landry's
Strengths:
This is the best climbing bike that I've ever rode. I'm not saying it's the best, just the best I've rode. I came from a Home Grown via a 1997 Moab. Haven't rode since I gave up the Home Grown about two years ago. I don't care about weight, the mind takes care of that, but I don't think it's heavy. The color rocks and the Recon shocks are great to me. Everything is relative. There will always be something newer and better, but considering the market, I got what I paid for.
Weaknesses:
I'm not going to complain too much about the components. The sales guy didn't sneak them on at the last moment. I have the Stumpjumper frame and if I wanted better components, I should have bought the SJ. The breaks are awesome, superbly better than the regular RH with the mechanicals. And the shocks are much, much better than the Dart 3. Way better. Incomparable. The lockout is a feature new to me and that's great too -- aside to the shoks being far superior. The Dart 3 felt like they were filled with foam instead of a coil.
The front derailer is inferior. Terrible. It will need replacement very soon. I've had it adjusted by the LBS and it still does not go to the top ring very easily. I don't prefer clipless, but the pedals will probably need replacing as well. Not sure to what yet, but they just don't fit me.
Other than that, I'm going to leave everything else for a while and see what happens. This bike would be something from NASA 20 years ago. Maybe ten. Like I say, I'm not chasing every new product and marketing agenda. This bike is great!!!
Similar Products Used:
I like this much better than my 1999 Home Grown. My 1999 Home Grown had better components than my 2007 RH Pro (aside from disk breaks), but I like this bike better already. I get a lot of heckling, but I loved my 1997 chrome Moab, better than my Home Grown. That got stolen though. I still have my unbroken U-bolt to prove it!!! If only it was on at the time --LOL!!
Bike Setup:
Reflectors off. Tail & headlight. Putting on a gel seat tomorrow. I am keeping it stock until stuff breaks. Then I'll upgrade.
Bottom Line:
I'm gonna rock this bike like it is. The grass is always greener. I'm not a racer, so I'll just wait until stuff breaks or until something really bothers me (like the front DR). I was even gonna get new pedals, but I'm gonna keep these until I break the bike and myself in. Haven't rode for about three years so I'm just getting back into it.
When buying I was comparing this to a Caffeine 3 and the F4, Fisher 6700. If I had not gotten out of the sport, I might have jumped up to the SJ, but I needed to buy a helmet, tool, bag, carrier for car, lights, speedometer -- with all of that, I had to get the RH Pro. I am not disappointed. For $1049, it is worth it. The other RHs don't even touch the Pro. I called over 25 stores finding one. Increasing my driving radius with each call. It ended up that I had to travel 80 mi.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle Rich
a Racer
from Oakdale, Minnesota, USA Date Reviewed: April 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
single, fast and ful of terrain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$990.00
Purchased At:
Erik's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Frame is awesome, light, strong and very responsive. I'm 6'3 and went with the 21" frame and it fits me great. I also really like the Recon Fork. Brakes are great too.
Weaknesses:
saddle is not the best and the pedals absolutly suck, I put on my old S&M platforms on right away. unsealed headset.
Similar Products Used:
Pro Concept XXL, Robinson Pro XL, S&M Holmes. This is actually my first Mountain Bike. Ive been dirt jumping and racing BMX for years and got tired of being cramped on a 20" bike.
Bike Setup:
S&M platform chromolly pedals with replaceable pins, KING headset, otherwise its stock. Great bike for someone who wants to get into XC.
Bottom Line:
I absolutly love this bike, I can rock it just like my 20" Racing bikes. The handling is great at any speed, i feel very comfortable off roading. It lands jumps with ease, is very easy to manual with and is defiinitly worth the price. great components. This is a great bike to build up. this bike is very easy to climb with too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Julian Wiegmann
a Weekend Warrior
from London,UK Date Reviewed: April 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
In Germany heheh
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Evans Czcles UK
Strengths:
everything for the price.
Weaknesses:
the tires seem a bit crap
Similar Products Used:
Kona Pahoehoe, Kona Kula
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I also went to the local store to buy a Kona kula. Have been a Kona rider for some Years and love them. I was worried that its a 17inch frame cause my Konas have always been 18 inch frames. Well tried it, loved it. Better specs then the Kula. Exellent bike and I love the all black. Great bike, good frame, good riding position
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anders
a Cross Country Rider
from Stockholm Date Reviewed: March 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Fun to ride
Weaknesses:
Not really, you get what You pay for see components
Went to the local store to buy a Kona kula. Have been a Kona rider for some Years and love(loved) the Kula but after trying the Rockhopper pro......I`m now a happy rider of a Rockhopper. The balance of the bike is so much better and a lot more fun in the tecnical stuff. I can go on so long just to say how good and fun this bike is to ride. I love the Reba sl and the brakes and most of all the bike. I can now do stuff which I could not do with the Kula. My new bike makes me a better rider in technical stuff. Did I say that I love this bike ?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bhaltair MacIntyre
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham, Washington USA Date Reviewed: February 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Chuckanut Mountain (so far)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
Fairhaven Bike and Mountain Sports
Strengths:
M4 strong, light frame. Brakes stop you on a dime. The geometry seems a bit small and I've learned that it is a benefit when I get off the interurban trails and into some hardcore hiking trails
Weaknesses:
The bike is still needing adjustments after 1 month of use and there's a squeak from the rear end.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8500
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The M4 frame is light! Stock with pump, pack with tools and extra tube etc. only weighs 30 lbs. I've ridden up steep hiking trails in deep mud and it was easier than walking up them. I also ride this on the pavement. The geometry seems a bit small and I've learned that it is a benefit when getting off the interurban trails and into some hardcore hiking trails. Great quality for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Chapin, SC USA Date Reviewed: January 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Bike To Nature
Strengths:
Now comes with the M4 frame making it a great bike to upgrade.
Weaknesses:
I didn't care for the unbranded bars and stem coming on a bike of this price range.
Similar Products Used:
Closest thing would've been my 2006 Gary Fisher Wahoo disc.
Bike Setup:
2007 USA model Rockhopper Pro. Stock other then a Thomson Elite setback seat post, Thomson X4 stem, WTB Rocket V SLT saddle, Race Face Deus XC bars, Shimano PD-M324 pedals, Shimano Deore LX crankset, Hope QR seat post clamp and a Cane Creek S-8 headset.
Bottom Line:
I've really enjoyed riding this bike a lot. It just feels like it was made to whizz down the trails at full speed. The Mango orange paint really stands out as well. Anyone looking for a great platform to build upon without having to spend a fortune would do well to check this one out. I believe with the addition of the M4 frame it has really elevated this bike to a new level. I know I'll be keeping this one around for a while.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jared
a Downhiller
from medicine hat alberta canada Date Reviewed: May 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
clay pits
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
cyclepath
Strengths:
tight fame single tac rims are wiked bb5 brakes also wiked
Weaknesses:
stok cranks are weak i bent them in like a week after buying the bike.
Similar Products Used:
2004 kona stuff
Bike Setup:
2006 drop off triples dmr dirt sadle s-type front rim 8 inch bb5 front and rear travative hollvafeller dh carnks diabolis short stem
Bottom Line:
just spend a few extra bux on this bike and u have a wiked bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Styxman b
a Weekend Warrior
from OKOTOKS Date Reviewed: May 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
the gimp_Nelson BC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
thebikestore
Strengths:
Great bike for what you pay for... the frame is awesome and if you want a killer bike just spend a couple of bucks on it here and there.
Weaknesses:
some of the stock stuff you get with it
Similar Products Used:
Rcky Mnt. hammer, banshee morphine
Bike Setup:
Easton EA70 monkeybars, EA70 Seatpost, Vice Stem; ODI Rogue lock ons; Avid Speed Dial SL, Avid BB7 8 inch Front and Back, Flax Jackets; Marzocchi "ride your ass off saddle", Expedo pedals; Holly Rollers Semi Slicks(Maxxis); Marzocchi Drop off (150mm); the rest is stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike... If you want a bike to take to the park, this is it. Really light frame and great for manuals. I have done some insane things to it and it has not let me down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Long
a
from Ottawa, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: April 15, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1120.00
Strengths:
Nice, solid frame. bike handles well, is very stable and comfortable. Good component package in 06 with all sram drivetrain and shifters. Good hayes sole brakes too
Weaknesses:
Nice shock, although the drop off sl that mine came with had only internal rebound adjustment. Tires aren't the best. Kind of heavy
Bottom Line:
An excellent buy for what you get. Great components and all around, all mountain, versatile bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ezweave
a Downhiller
from Colorado Date Reviewed: April 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Jones DH
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$830.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Village
Strengths:
This is actually the All Mountain Pro Disc model... I see a few others reviewed it here as well.
It's fairly light (I am used to 40lb DH/FR bikes) and comes with a resepctible build (for the price). I like the geometry and the ICGS tabs (although without a guide my chain has gotten hung up on the bolts). The fork has a slacker angle, which works better for trail riding. It seems fairly stout, but time will tell (I usually only break forks). The wheel set is really nice! I run single track rims on my big bikes and they get lots o action.
Weaknesses:
The pedals are weak sauce, not sealed. The headset is not sealed either, but that can be fixed. Grips are always lame unless they are ODI Ruffian lock-ons and of course, you need end caps for your bars.
Feels weird to have a front Derailler. The cassette could be geared a pinch higher (I like to go fast).
It seems a little short... I am not tall, so I like the stand over, but it could be a pinch longer (top tube). It seems a bit squirrely when I try to drop stuff off camber, but some of that is what I am used to.
Stock except for: Marz fender on the Drop-Off (it was laying around), Tioga DH pedals, grips (see above), etc. Nothing major. I'm about to pop an e13 DRS on there.
Bottom Line:
I missed just riding the local Singletrack trails like I did eight years ago. DH/FR is still my bag, so I wanted a bike that would be ready for "fun" (jumping around). I haven't DJ'd with it, the fork has a bit too much travel and the head tube is kinda slack, plus the "shortness" thing; but I think I will try it. That is the main diff between the P series and this (durability too). It has ICGS tabs, which I will use soon.
One downside that I knew would happen: got to be smoother on the HT. Even on little drops and launches (2-3', say waist to chest high, in terms of air) it is kinda rough. You get used to gobs of travel. I wouldn't do "big" riding with it, it's just a fun bike. HTs are suicide for serious stuff, unless you are uber smooth. Like supernaturally smooth.
I got a good deal on it (20% off) and am happy. It should last for a couple of years and that is all I ask. It feels good just to ride stuff that doesn't have you thinking about physical therapy (of "teh suck"). Plus I think I ride smoother after time on the HT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Denis
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: January 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
private frame only
Strengths:
bought the frame only, amazingkly strong and has long top tube length for us tall people and i bought a 15 inch which is great because i have short legs, long trunk
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Rm Flow, Iron Horse Warrior, specialized hardrock
Bike Setup:
05 rockhopper pro frame, wtb wheels, exr pro air fork, lx groupo
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is i am writing this review because of specialiozed's constant reputatiuon of good bikes. Some have complained about the components should have been better for the money. If they wanted better, buy the stumpjumper, don't buy a bike if you're going to whine with a review that it needs to be better. deal with it. 5 flamin coilers for this puppy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johnathan bartisch
a Downhiller
from Okotoks, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Polly pissy pants - the vein
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
thebikeshop.com
Strengths:
the frame is incredable... light and responsive. Marzocchi drop-off 130mm/150mm shocks that are stock oem. People say the sun ringle singletracks are sucky but i've hit some huge gaps and drops without a worry.
Weaknesses:
I find that there could have been better handlebars and stems. OEM truvativ XR, and truvativ XR stem. the crank as well is lower end truvativ blaze. could have been upgraded there
Similar Products Used:
Banshee Morphine
Bike Setup:
2005 specialized frame, drop-off 150mm, easton ea 70 oversized, easton vice stem, rest is all stock till i break stuff
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price, and light enough to make anyone think there a pro. climbs a little weak with the stock tires if your shocks are in freeride mode, in XC mode it does not to bad... i only find my tires slip on everything(don't grab}. Either then that i reaally like my bike, i just wish i had more cash for the specialized demo 9 or big hit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Wraggett
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Ontario Date Reviewed: October 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
ravenshoe/ any good urban riding spots
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
bike depot for 1500 cdn
Strengths:
awesome frame insanel plush 05 drop-off 3 comp
Weaknesses:
pedals and tire tread.... bothi im hopping to get replaced
Similar Products Used:
norco ignite, norco manik, stumpy pro
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is amazing, lower the seat for some intense dirt jumping... raise it back up for superior xc
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Aberdeen, Scotland Date Reviewed: March 11, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Xt rear mech, clipless peddals, saddle, low stand-over height, fork is sweet & very tuneable
Weaknesses:
front mech - deore, seizes up after every ride after 6 months of use. have to strip down on weekly basis. have tried various lubes etc even tried to protect with section of old inner tube, obviously shimano don't get the same crap weather we get here - local bike shop said that it was a common complaint with this part.
Similar Products Used:
'95 Marin Palisades Trail with '00 groupset
Bike Setup:
Hope Mono Minis, other than that its as it came out of the box
Bottom Line:
would recomend an upgrade to XT front mech for next winter, i use this bike every day to commute as well as at weekends for fun/race, never let me down apart from f/mech. just have to try to keep on top of maintanence
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Fairfax Station, Virginia, USA Date Reviewed: August 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Fountainhead
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$780.00
Purchased At:
Spokes Etc. Bicycles
Strengths:
Great bang for the buck! The frame is very light, but strong, the red paint job attracts a lot of attention, the Manitou Axel Elite fork is excellent, the mechanical disk brakes work really well, and as to be expected the shimano components are great.
Weaknesses:
Other than the grips I really can't complain, unless your one of theose guys who needs clipless pedals.
Similar Products Used:
2004 Kona Cindercone, 2004 Gt Avalanche 0.5
Bike Setup:
Stock except for red Yeti hardcore grips.
Bottom Line:
Great bang for the buck! Specialized is a great company. I absolutely love riding this bike. This bike doesn't require that much maintence either because it is just so sturdy. Simply one of the best bikes out on the market for under $1,000.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from salt lake city Date Reviewed: August 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Slick Rock
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$760.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Peddlar
Strengths:
Great frame for the money. Mine wasnt the least bit warped and the red paint job is excellent. Mech disk brakes are a great add on, though they arent the best. The bike is fairly light weight and the Manitou Axel shock isnt a bad fork for the money.
Weaknesses:
Tires suck. Cant hold on to loose terrain and tend to skid very easily. Brakes are a pain to get used too. Strap pedals are always a pain. Could have gone with XT for the price. Always adjusting the brakes and deraileurs, but big deal who doesnt?
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra, Stump Jumper FSR, Rockhopper.
Bike Setup:
Stock for now.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. One of the best hard tail bikes I have ridden. Specialized could have added some better components for the price. Overall I am very satisfied, dont let the weaknesses fool you. Nothing serious wrong with the bike. I am very happy with the purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from London Ont. Canada Date Reviewed: July 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1125.00
Purchased At:
All Season Sports
Strengths:
First new bike in 9 years !! Very impressed with the frame,Disc brakes ( I am 205 pounds) and the weight of the bike. The Team Red Paint is Awesome !!
Weaknesses:
Seat. Remember I weigh 205 !
Similar Products Used:
My old bike was a Gary Fisher Marlin. I tested a Giant Yukon , and a Norco Charger.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike was a HUGE upgrade from my old Fisher. Love the Front Fork ,Brakes,and the Team Red Paint on the Flat Black Components. My be a bit pricey for a first Hard tail ,but you only live once . Just don't wait 9 years like myself !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Turnbull
a Weekend Warrior
from Superior WI Date Reviewed: July 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Munger trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$799.00
Purchased At:
Ski Hut in Duluth MN
Strengths:
Nice and light,yet sturdy.Great components for the money.Fun to ride.Great paint job,gets lots of looks.
Weaknesses:
Stock tires
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Hoo Koo EEE Koo
Bike Setup:
Stock,exept for tires,put a Kenda Klimax light on the front and a Continental Twister on the rear,made a big improvement.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a very nice bike that won't break the bank, try this baby I test rode several bikes in this price range, Trek Fisher ect,and to me this was the clear choice. I will most likely rie this bike for a year or so then may look at upgrading to a Stumpjumper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, ON Date Reviewed: June 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Don Valley (not favorite, but only one accessible so far with this bike)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$860.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Solutions
Strengths:
Lightweight, strong frame, mech. disc brakes are fantastic. Great components for the price paid.
Weaknesses:
Fork could use a lock-out option (ie - axel super like the intl. version of the bike).
Similar Products Used:
last bike was a 96 serengeti. no suspension. okay bike for a highschool beginner. cost $600, but bikes were more back then
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
Great deal for your buck. strong bike, maneuvers well on the trails, disc brakes and fork are amazing on downhills, (mind you i'm 155 lbs). the matt black finish is awesome. I was comparing it to the cannondale f400 and the rocky mountain fusion, and this was the best ride by far. I highly recommend this bike to an intermediate rider who is looking to upgrade components as thier skills increase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoffrey Seaborn
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: June 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Gatineau Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Pecco's
Strengths:
First of all, I bought the "pro" INTERNATIONAL model (still 2004) in dream silver that comes with V-brakes, shimano clipless pedals, and a manitou axel super. I love this bike - you will want to upgrade it a bit here and there, but it's really nice stock. Comes with high end components where it counts! It does however, have cheaper ones where they can be put. I, however, don't really have a problem with that seeing as though you will probably not notice the difference anyway. Comes with pretty sweet wheels as well.
Weaknesses:
My frame was a little warped when i got it. It's around the rear chainstay and makes v-brake adjustment a royal pain. Here is a big problem: the roll-x tires are so wack!Whenever you go onto gravel, you unearth prettymuch the entire path. ANYTHING NOT FIRMLY ATTACHED TO THE GROUND WILL GET FLUNG AT YOUR NEW, SHINY FRAME! As I said earlier too, there are some parts you may well want to upgrade
Similar Products Used:
Base model rockhopper.
Bike Setup:
This thing. I substituted the bars with Easton monkeylite XC, the stem with easton EA70 welded, grips with race face good n' evil, complete brake set with avid TI's (I would reccomend these to anyone), brake cables to avid flak jacket (very nice), seat post to thomson straight elite, saddle to specialized comp gel (white one is cool), headset to chris king nothreadset, and as you may have guessed, the roll-x tires to continental semi slicks. Drivetrain is solid, so I'm leaving that alone.
Bottom Line:
I mainly bought this bike because it is the only decent XC bike that comes in a 23"...yeah...23". I would truly reccomend this bike. You CANNOT get a bike this good anywhere else for the money. It is very worth giving a few more dollars to upgrade to this. The stock fork is pretty good (it's the nicest of manitou axels), but a mid-range skareb might have been better. However, Specialized truly does make the best bikes - this is no exception.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J Steuts
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Louis Date Reviewed: February 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Steamboat, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$880.00
Purchased At:
Rassamous Bike Shop
Strengths:
Awesome frame. Agressive geo for the money. $880.00 is a sweet price, however one has to add the 50 for new pedals, and some details.
Weaknesses:
Seems heavy, I am not an expert, however. For the money, they should have added clipless and gone with some XT. The bike is sweet, they went cheap on details. Rims are cheap, however can be replaced. This is my first time riding discs, and I really like them. However, they are a trick to get used to.
Similar Products Used:
8 yr old stump jumper. Obviously a more sweet ride, but it costs an arm and a leg.
Bike Setup:
Current: Stock from Specialized. Changed rims and pedals. Added bar ends and will consider swaping out parts from old specialized Stumpjumper.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. Great bike for somebody who rides twice or three times a week. If stuff breaks, thats cause specialized tried to save you a few bucks... but thats ok cause its fun to tune your own bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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