Well, at least help me decide. Im torn on wether to upgrade the HardRock frame now or save up and get a new frame.

Ive got all the parts I need not including the fork and total cost will be $211. This includes:

SRAM X.9 shifters, rear der, Powerglide II cassette and chain.
AVID SD7 brake levers with Arch Rival brakes.

The fork Im getting is a '04 Manitou Skared Elite for $70. Great deal from a great friend.

So, what should I do? I bought the bike in 2003 for $299 out the door. Its been great to me thus far and there is nothing wrong with it now except for the crappy shifting and braking components.

Do you think the HardRock frame is worth upgrading parts on or should I save up and get a Banshee Scirocco frame?

Ide save up for a nicer frame. I wouldnt bother with the x.9, just go for the x.7. Theres no difference toward performance and its cheaper

Why?

Save up for the Banshee Scirocco frame, it looks pretty bad ass. It could probably hold up to more punishment than the Hardrock frame plus its geometry is better than the hardrock.

what madbiker said

I'm not sure why you can't do both. Upgrade the HardRock now, keep saving for the new frame and when you get the new frame, transfer the parts. The only issue might be the fork since you might have to cut the steerer and then it might not be long enough for the new frame. However, there may be spacer games you can play to get around that.

Thats what I was thinking of doing. Ill be buying just the Scirocco frame anyway so why not buy the parts for it now, enjoy them then transfer to the new frame when I get it. Brilliant.

It sounds like you are happy with the Hardrock frame, so there is no reason to get rid of it right now.

My hardrock is getting upgraded like all hell. Z1 FR, Ringle 20mm hub, wheelsmith spokes, hayes mags, kenda stick e tires, odi lock on grips, bontrager seat.

Future upgrades are Holzfeller cranks and MRP chainguide. When the rest of the drivetrain wears out I will replace with Sram X7.

With what money? :D I cant think of a decent bike Id want out there that suits me best except for the Scirocco. Maybe a Cove Stiffee FR but no US dealers carry them and Jenson doesnt sell them anymore.

I seriously dont know what to do. I think Ill just save my money for a down payment on a house. That way both me and my girlfriend will be happy.

I'd keep the frame and upgrade.

crappy braking and crappy shifting

Sounds like you know what to replace...