specialized rockhopper

I got an '05 recently at an end of year sale price. Beautiful bike and fairly light. The rock hard and narrow saddle had to go (replaced with a Specialized Milano Gel), but otherwise needed no other changes. I haven't had much riding time on it due to winter; but in several quick rides it's been responsive and fun. I would say from its level of components- good but not great- that it is not a bike for real heavy duty mtn. biking with big drops, etc. For the easy going stuff that I do, it's fine.

I recently purchased a Rockhopper. Over-all I am extremely pleased. It has great balance and certainly it is more forgiving than my old bike. I like the versatile frame and the fact that it has so many options for upgrading. I don't put a lot of air under my bike, but I'm not sure I agree with the previous post with regard to jumps. I've not seen or read anything to indicate the Rockhopper is anything but a solid performer.
On the negative side, the Manitou Axel fork is very basic, not bad for the money, but not as smooth as a high end fork. I am considering replacing it. The only real drawback is the Alivio front deraileur, controlled by a rapid fire, index control. When placed in certain extreme gear combinations, (low one end high gear on the other) the chain will rub the front derailuer and it can not be adjusted out with the index control. If I had it to do over, I would definetly buy the Rockhopper again, but I would consider a higher end version, like the comp. I would not consider any other mid-priced hard-tail frame from any other manufacturer.
When I started out looking at new bikes, the Rockhopper was not on my list that included Gary Fisher Tassajara, Trek 4900 & 6500, Ironhorse Warrior, and Raleigh M-50. But after my third demo ride, I was sold. Good luck with your decision.

river_runner21 said:

i was wondering if anyone has had experience with this bike- any info good and bad would be awesome thanks!!!

I've been riding a 2000 Rockhopper from new for the last five years. Of all the hard tails I've ridden, the Specialized has the most comfortable frame. For some reason, the resilient back end almost feels like riding a full susser at times - especially compared to my harsh old GT Backwoods. Its a good all rounder, is very fast on single track routes and I've been very pleased with it. My friend has just bought a 2005 Rockhopper to replace his 2000 model. He tells me it rocks - and that the handling is noticeably tighter.

Get disc brakes if you can.