Mountain Biking - What year is my bike?

I have decided to knock the dust off my Specialized Rockhopper, but I was wondering if there was any way to find out the model year that it is? I can't exactly remember when I bought but my best guess would be 7-8 years ago.

Is there any code like a VIN?

TIA

-Dennis

BTW: Great forum here, tons of information!

why would you want to know?

Whats the difference if it is a 97 or 96 frame?

Is there any code like a VIN?

There's a serial number. It's usually stamped on the underside of the BB shell. Call up Specialized and read that off to them. They should be able to tell you what year your bike is from. Also, if most of your components are stock, you can post a description of them (pictures also help) and someone here might be able to tell you.

Yeah, that's pretty helpful, not. edit-the first reply.

There should be a serial number (bottom of BB) on it and with a little help from the mfr. you should be able to figure it out.

Best of luck with it.
Cheers

why would you want to know?

Whats the difference if it is a 97 or 96 frame?

There are plenty of reasons why someone might want to know. The most obvious that comes to mind is that the owner wants to sell the bike and would like to accurately report its age.

Actually I wanted to know because IIRC when I bought the bike from Bike Source in Overland Park, KS they told me it would be lifetime free adjustments etc. So I was thinking about taking by there if it's free, and since it's been sitting for 3+ years, have them check it out adjust the brakes, shifter, and fix this little problem i have with my crank bolt coming loose. I just wanted to be able to tell them the bike is X year model, and just general knowledge of when it was made.

Thanks again,

-Dennis

Well I believe the method of finding out would have worked nicely, but tonight while digging around trying to see if I could find the owners manual, I did :D I even have the sales reciept.

So I thought I'd post it up for you guys:

Purchased 6-14-97, Specialized Rockhopper 1997 model blue 19 frame, wheel size 26 total cost $464.89.

It seems the price hasn't gone up that much on the RH in 8 years.

I do have another question however, in your guys opinion is this bike too small for me at 6'2 245 (the most i've ever weighed, thus getting the bike out)? I've always wanted another opinion if that bike frame is ok for me. I just feel that I'm not totally comfortable on it. Can I raise the handelbars typically?

Thanks again, I'm sure I'll end up having a few more questions as I dig into this :)

-Dennis

Kinda' hard to say about the fit exactly as some at 6'2 would be fine on some 19" frames (especially certain manufacturers w/ more stretched out geometry...ie, longer top tube) while others would be cramped. It depends a lot on your body type like long/short legs and log/short torso. If you feel cramped on that size you might want to try a longer or more vertical stem that would position you more straight up...giving you a little more room. Also might want to try a different bar if you have a straight bar. Hope this helps but your best bet would be to go to your local LBS and let them examine you on the bike. Good luck.