I have been thinking of converting my Schwinn Homegrown into an SS machine. I was just given an really nice offer on a 04 Specialized Hardrock SS. The reviews on MTBR don't are all conflicting about the Specialized. So, should I stick the Homegrown conversion or go for the Specialized?

After St. Patty's Day I will start to save money for a real SS, maybe a 29'er dunno yet.

If your gonna get a better bike later convert what you have now.my 2 cents---JJ

www.vailcycleworks.com

Conversions aren't (or don't have to be) permanent. Buy a BMX cog, some spacers, and a singulator. Try it on both bikes. You'll like one better geared and one better SS. It's cheap, easy and fun to play with bikes.

I think it's nice to have an older high end frame that's been converted, personally. The Homegrown frames were good stuff. And, as you've already read, an inexpensive conversion isn't permanent. Do it on the Homegrown.

I'd convert what you already have. The 04 Specialized is basically a geary Hardrock with a tensioner...something you could do yourself. and for much less money. The 05 Hardrock does away with the tensioner and goes with horizontal fork ends and discbrakes. Not bad for Specialized.