What upgrades can my bike handle?

sammyb304
sammyb304 Posts: 18
edited January 2008 in MTB general
Hi

I recently bought a '08 Spesh Rockhopper Comp. Im absolutely loving it (except for the standard SPD pedals which suck as i dont wear ceats-i bought a set of Azonic Pookie at christmas but have yet to ride them). I am just wondering what its potential is and what sort of things are possible as regards upgrades?

Im not planning any major upgrades soon, however the fork is one thing that I imagine upgrading eventually. What is the longest travel I could put on this frame? Im confused by geometry etc.

One persistent problem I am having is breaking the rear mech hanger/bending the rear mech hanger or in the last crash breaking both the rear mech and hanger! These are problems common in the sport I know but the last time has left my bike unrideable for 3 weeks as the hanger is so rare and hard to track down. This is very frustrating. Is there anything i could do to reduce this incident occuring? Are there stronger alternatives for example?

Also, regardless of how much tension i put on my chain (usually middle or largest front cog) when going downhill on rough terrain, my chain skips off and I end up literally 'powerless' hurtling down a rooty/rocky/slippy/steep slope heading straight for a tree! Is there anything i could do to reduce this problem?

Are these 'problems' things that become less frequent with better technique or can i mechanically alter the bike to prevent/minimise these things?

Any help on these topics would be great as I love the sport and want to continue improving my skill without frustrating delays because of repairs.

Thanks

Comments

  • supersonic
    supersonic Posts: 82,708
    The frame is designed for 100mm of travel - I'd stick to that. Any more may invalidate the warranty.

    Sounds like the mech hanger is doing its job! Its just one of those things, a sacrificial part to save the frame. There is a device called a 'hanger banger' but I am not convinced by it.

    You could use some sort of chain device to help keep the chain on.

    TBH it sounds like the bike is not enough for your riding - you may need something a bit heavier duty!
  • Thanks for your help on the fork etc.

    I have heard of the hanger banger and i wasn't convinced myself-cheap and i didn't like how it attaches via the QR skewer either.

    Are there any chain devices you would recommend?

    LOL currently I am a student and don't ride enough to justify another bike-let alone one over and above the 1K mark! ill just have to do the best I can with my RH in the mean time-break it/fix it/break it again. Its just frustrating have to repair almost every ride.
  • GT Destroyer
    GT Destroyer Posts: 1,719
    Hangers do just break. I had the same problem, smashed 3 in a row on different rides. It doesn't help now but I'd recommend buying 2 next time, or even 3, and take them with you when you're out.