I'm new to the forum and new to biking (haven't done it since I was a kid). Right now, I'm just using this a s a commuter, but I plan to take it on some local trails. I got it basically for free and I plan on replacing the tires with some 2.3's (cause I'm fat), so for the price of tires, I have a bike. Everything works and is in good working order, but I'd like to know what year it is in case I want to do an accurate restoration. Enough of the talking on with the pics.

well, the best i can tell you is to locate the serial number, it should be stamped on the bottom of the bottom bracket shell. from there, you may be able to locate a site that will give you a date according to the sn, or you could probably email or call specialized with the number, they should be able to tell you when your bike was made.
by the way, you got yourself an awesome bike that will ride great. i have always kept my eyes open for an older hardrock or rockhopper for cheap to have as a backup trail bike.

It won't exactly be easy, because the components are still affixed to the frame, but if you can get in position to see the reverse side of the front dérailleur cage or rear dérailleur body, wipe it clean, and you will find a two letter code. Not VIA, that's a Japanese standards code for bike parts like UL is to our electrical appliances. Not the model number, like FD-350 or RD-250, etc. A two letter code. Then go here and determine the dates of the components: https://www.vintage-trek.com/component_dates.htm#shimano

That will roughly give you an idea of the model year, assuming the components are original, which I think they are. If the components were manufactured in the last several months of the year, they may have been used on the next model year.

Then, if it is 1993 or later, go here: https://www.airfreetires.com/specs/St...nd=Specialized

You'll find most of the original specs there. If it's older than 1993 I have no idea where you would find original specs, unless you can get that year's Specialized catalogue.

What does the decal say? Hard Rock GX? That might be a clue, too.

Honestly, I wouldn't bother trying to restore it to spec, unless it occupies a special place in your heart. Those components are entry level stuff, and the frame is likely entry level as well. That doesn't mean it won't ride well, it just means it might not be worth the investment. I'd just ride it as is. If stuff starts failing, upgrade those parts with something better, and keep riding. You can't beat free. Some might suggest not spending too much money on that frame (if you can positively identify it), because it may only have chromoly main tubes with high tensile steel forks and stays. What does that mean? It just means it might be a little heavier than it's more expensive contemporaries. Some might think the more expensive bikes ride better, but that's all subjective. If you like it, ride it, upgrade it with modestly priced parts as needed, and enjoy!

VERY nice bike for free, cleaned and tuned I can usually get around $150-$180 for one of those! The 2.3's might not fit. It's not so much the front fork that is a problem, as the frame. Try it and see, you can return the tires as long as it's clean I imagine. Looks like early to mid nineties, but I'm no expert. I have a similar one, with less edgy graphics that looks a little older. Tune it up, get some new 2.1 tires, and maybe some grips, etc.....,,,,BD

I got the sn# off the frame today and I think I'll call specialized. If that doesn't work, it was purchased at a LBS (still has their sticker on it), so I might try them. Good to know that info about the tires, I was more worried about the brakes fitting. Thanks for the quick help and advice!

This page might help you ID the year based on components:
https://www.firstflightbikes.com/specialized_specs.htm