Originally Posted by
LarDasse74
The hardrock was an entry level bike and almost definitely came with a freewheel.
If the rear derailleur is still functioning, there is no need to replace. A derailleur designed for 6 speed should work perfectly with an 8 speed shifter and cassette.
Every Hardrock that has come through my bike coop has had a freehub. I know for a fact that several of the older Hardrocks with the steel frames from the '90s had freehubs because I checked. I even almost bought one from 97 that had a freehub. I know that my personal 2002 Hardrock came with the freehub.
I'm not saying that all of them had freehubs, but for the most part, LBS only entry level mountain bikes seem to have freehubs. I know that most of the Giants, Treks, Diamondback, and even Schwinn LBS mountain bikes from the '90s seem to have 7 speed freehubs.