Specialized Hard Rock.. Upgrade components or bike

Noel PT

Hi Guys,

I got a Spec Hard Rock. Its getting to the stage where I need to either upgrade, shocks and derallier or buy the Rock Hopper or something simalar.

What are the opinions.... ditch the bike or upgrade?

I will appreciate any ideas.

_Mike

If you are happy with the frame geometry and generally how it rides then upgrade it, however don't upgrade it if you are trying to change what the bike is meant to do.

For example, if most of the riding you do is xc, then buy the rockhopper as no matter what you do to the hardrock, although it might improve its xc capabilities slightly, it won't be the same as buying a specifically designed xc bike as the hardrock is more of a fun, all round bike. I made this mistake by trying to turn my xc bike to be more suited to freeride and eventually, after spending lots of money on it, bought a freeride hardtail and all the money I spent on the xc bike was virtually wasted.

Noel PT

yeh that what I was thinking....
I do mainly XC, so yes I am now looking for a good XC hardtail. Thanks mate

ddoogie

Not really true. I use my Hardrock as a rigid XC bike and it works really well. I upgraded to SRAM X9 gearing and some better Vees. Its a fun bike to ride and, if you're not planning on racing, then it will provide an excellent basis upon which to upgrade.

A decent fork and a good set of gears really will transform it into a perfect trail/XC bike.

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Noel PT

Ddoggie.... what are you doing to me... I had almost made up my mind...hahaha

I must admit I am in two minds, cause I really enjoy my hard rock. but when considering the money that its gonna cost to upgrade would it not be better to just upgrade to the Rock Hopper? Or do you think that the Rock Hopper accesories are going to need to be upgraded aswell.

My apoligies if I sound a little clueless .... but I my product knowledge needs a little work.

Thanks

Noel PT

My apoligies, I meant Ddoogie not ddogie.

R1D3R

just edit it next time!

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Flurry

My hardrock is in my sig (click on the worm head). They're a versatile bike, and with the right components will do quite a lot.

what is your budget?

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Noel PT

I dont have a budget cause i want to do it right and I am prepared to do it over the next few months. Do you have anything in mind. As long as its strong and quality I am open to suggestions.

Flurry

forks are the first thing i'd change regardless of intended riding style. That's if your gonna upgrade

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ddoogie

I'd advice spending œ600 on it as that is about the same price as a new Rockhopper. It will also get you so much in terms of upgrades.

You could pick up a Marzocchi MX Comp for about œ150 and a full XT groupset from Merlincycles (drivetrain, brakes, wheels) for œ450. That will pretty much take the bike down to about 27lbs or so which will make it perfect for XC.

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Noel PT

Agreed, I seem to bottom them out cause I am heavier than most. But what shock do you recon are worth going for I wouldnt like to spend more than 250 pounds on shocks. What have to put on yours

Noel PT

Thanks ddoogie, thats sounds like a plan, I am busy checking merlincycles now.