Mountain Biking - Need Help Choosing right bike

Hi,
I have a mongoose whose RST shock broke on a black diamond trail. Going to put the $90 manitou magnum R on it. But anyways, I need your advice on purchasing a bike. One is a 2002 Specialized Hardrock A1 Fs hardtail bike for $320 it has Alum. frame, Sr-mg 7800 Suntour front shock 63mm travel and all Shimano Acera components ...or a 2001 Specialized Rockhopper A1 FS Comp Hardtail with Shimano Deore components, clipless pedals and Manitou Magnum R front shock for $400.......... Which bike would be better for me? I'm an intermediate rider with a small wallet. I do trail riding, some downhilling and single black diamond trails. I want a bike that won't fail on me, stupid mongoose...can you help me? Thanks

I'm not an expert on Specialized by any means, but the Rockhopper looks like the better bike to me.

Originally posted by Dirtgrinder
I'm not an expert on Specialized by any means, but the Rockhopper looks like the better bike to me.

Ditto.

Richard

Rockhopper is a better frame, has a much better fork and the next level higher in components for only $80 more! If you buy the Hardrock and then try to upgrade the fork, that'll cost you more than the $80 and the Manitou fork is definately worth the $$. I'm not sure what you mean by black diamond trails, I'm assuming that means "hardest" If this is the case, go with the Rockhopper.

The Rockhopper is put together as an entry level mountainbike, the Hardrock is more of a neighborhood bike with the mountainbike appearance.

Just my two Lincolns.

My first MTB was a Rockhopper! :love: I loved that thing and rode it to death.

get that! :thumbup:

Rockhopper. There's no comparing the two. The Hardrock is, in effect, a mountain-type-bike or, at best, a very entry-level MTB. The 'Hopper is something you can actually take on trails.

My second MTB was a 1992 Rockhopper Sport. I still have it. I still ride it.

Welcome to the Forums Joshe. I think the results of the poll speak for themselves.

yea, that's true! Thanks you all!!!!!!!

Frankly, I'd get neither. I'd save my money for a decent road bike.

Originally posted by D*Alex
Frankly, I'd get neither. I'd save my money for a decent road bike.
Apply this advice only if you've lost your mind completely.

Originally posted by Dirtgrinder

Apply this advice only if you've lost your mind completely.


Agreed.


I'll just reinforce what everybody else has said, get the Rockhopper. The HardRock is a campus/beach type bike, not really and "off road" bike.

I have been abusively riding a 96 rockhopper frame for the last 6 years until I finaly developed a small crack in the headtube last fall. Even at the end, this frame was always stiff, light and responsive. I took the frame back to the shop I bought it from years ago, and even though Specialized changed from an unlimited lifetime warrantee to a 5-year one, they swapped it out for a brand new 2002 frame no questions asked. I think you will be very happy with the rockhopper a1 fs.

As far as the parts go, for an extra $80, your getting a steal. Always buy a bike you will grow into, not what you van afford.

theres just so many to choose from I dont know what to tell ya....:(