Spec rockhopper or Marin Hawk Hill

logs

Just been told to give up football and running after my third knee op and decided to get back into bikes (been 16 years since had Specialized Milano).
Have been to two local shops. 1 stocking Specialized and the other Marin and Diamondbacks (didn't like them)

Going to start with going to be doing some longish runs with a bit of xc, jumps maybe to come later. However knowing my competative spirit I will want to start building up my bike so need a bike/frame to get best out of long term. Had a œ500 limit to start with but that has crept upto œ600ish

Left both shop after quick test rides convinced on that particular bike.

Dilemma is Rockhopper Disc vs Marin Hawk Hill, so any advice sought.
But try not to throw any more bikes into the equation or I'll be sat here at christmas a fat lard and no bike.

Unknown

You need to test them out, but I have to say the Hawkhill has one of the worst specs I have ever seen for a bike of this price. I have seen ones 200 quid cheaper that are better. Firstly it doesn't even get a damped fork, and is also 8spd while most others are 9spd. I don't usually have a problem with this if the money has been put elsewhere (like better fork) but it hasn't. Even the hydro brakes are single piston units.

The Hopper Disc is 50 quid more, but every component is a step up, including the beautiful frame. Superb fork, great discs, 27 spd set up - I am sure you'll feel the difference (given the bike fits)

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Seagull

Have you demo'd them? Finding a comfortable bike is the most important thing, no point having the best spec if the bike wrecks your back.

Spec wise they both have very nice frames, but the rest of the spec on the Marin is rubbish and is bettered by the spec on the Rockhopper. The forks are particulary bad on the Marin, and this aspect alone would stop me from buying one if it was my money. The fork on the rockhopper is a reliable solid unit that should give good performance for years.

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logs

Thanks Supersonic. Question have at back of mind is the Comp disc worth the extra œ100. Again post test of course

Seagull

The comp disc is worth an extra œ100, but you are suffering from budget creep[:)]. For œ100 you get a very good fork, nicer crank set and XT derailuer. These are all worthwhile upgrades and will reduce weight and increase longevity.

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Unknown

You do get better components, but where do you draw the line?! Only thing that lets the hopper comp down (both) are the wheels which are basic and slightly heavy. I would say the standard spec has better wheels!

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