![]() ![]() ![]() Specialized’s own Fast Trak tires roll fast but they’re undersized by modern standards and the relatively firm T5 rubber compound prioritizes rolling resistance over grip. Both the front and rear use a traditional quick-release axle system. Keeping the Rockhopper rolling is a set of 25mm internal rims laced to smooth rolling Formula hubs. The Shimano Deore 1x11 drivetrain is a reliable performer (Image credit: Jim Bland) While the Judy itself is a component highlight it’s strange to see that different frame sizes get different amounts of fork travel – the small gets 80mm, the medium gets 90mm while large and bigger get 100mm this is a specification choice that is going to give smaller riders a compromised performance on the trail. Having an air-sprung damper means the fork can be adjusted specifically to any rider's weight, which in turn should offer an increase in composure over a more basic coil-sprung fork, similar to the sub-par option that’s fitted to the Trek Roscoe we tested alongside the Rockhopper. ComponentsĪ straight head tube requires a straight steerer, but thankfully Specialized has selected the excellent RockShox Judy Solo Air fork to provide comfort and grip up front. While smaller wheels this would add an aspect of playfulness to the Rockhopper’s ride, I do think the bike's nature and focus is best suited to bigger 29in hoops. I tested the 29er version, but Specialized also offers the Rockhopper Elite with 27.5in wheels. While I do understand that bikes in this price bracket have been hit the hardest following the global pandemic, I can’t help but feel this decision is limiting the Rockhopper’s general sustainability beyond 2023. With pretty much all of the best aftermarket forks in 2022 only being available with a tapered 1-18/1.5in steerer option, it seems odd for Specialized to make such an oversight which really limits the Rockhopper’s future upgrade potential. While lots of small details have been stressed, it's strange that several larger, fundamental parts of the design have been missed – the most obvious one being the straight non-tapered head tube. With the goal of making sure that the Rockhopper offers both the best fit and best performance for every person, no matter their measure, Specialized has paired each Rockhopper frame size with the optimal wheel size.If you like to drop your saddle on descents, the rough finishing inside the seat tube will quickly scuff up your seat post (Image credit: Jim Bland).A durable Formula freehub and SunRace 9-speed cassette keep you rolling smoothly and promise countless miles of fuss-free performance.2x MicroSHIFT shifting handles drivetrain duties while you focus on the ride.Reign in speed and dial up your confidence with powerful braking from Tektro's M275 hydraulic disc brakes.Bringing Rx Tune to Rockhopper for the very first time, the SR Suntour XCE has size-specific travel and spring rates.Reliable hubs from Formula are paired with 25mm internal diameter, hookless Stout rims for a wheelset hat-trick: strong, light and durable.Durable 1x microSHIFT drivetrain offers plenty of range along with a clutch-equipped rear derailleur that keeps your ride quiet and your chain on. ![]() SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes pack a mean bite but deliver their power with a refined, intuitive feel to make for a package that punches way above its pay grade.The lockout-equipped SR Suntour XCM with custom Multi-Circuit damping has size-specific travel and spring rates.The result is a Rockhopper to fit every rider and the assurance that every Rockhopper is rolling on the best-handling wheel for its frame size With the goal of making sure that the Rockhopper offers both the best fit and best performance for every person, no matter their measure, Specialized has paired each Rockhopper frame size with the optimal wheel size.Lightweight yet durable premium A1 aluminium frame features hydroformed top and downtubes in order to keep weight low and strength high, all while providing increased standover clearance, slick internal cable routing and dropper-post compatibility. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |