Solid performer (Specialized Hardrock)

Member Name: davomrmac

Product:	Specialized Hardrock
Date:	12/11/08 (441 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Nice build quality, awesome paint, feels good

Disadvantages: Mechnical disc brakes, shame, but OK

Christmas is a coming and I wanted something extra special for my son, so I bought this early to make sure I had it in good time. The reason I opted for this model, the Hardrock Sport Disc 2009 was for many reasons. It cost a little under £370.

The first reason I went for this was the brand. A well proven name and I was sure to get better quality than one of those off-the-shelf under a £100 options. It is finished in red, with some nice graphics on it and feel very very solid indeed. A really nicely made bike.

The second reason was that it comes in a 13-inch frame. My son is only 9 years old and is quite big, so a youth or should I say childs bike would be outgrown too quickly. This one, with the saddled down at it lowest is ideal and means there is some growing room. Think about this if you are buying for a 9,10,11 year old. Perhaps the smallest size adult bike will be more suitable.

The SR Suntour SF8-XCT-V2 suspension fork gives 80mm of travel, so is nice to soak up the bumps when you go for a woodland or track ride. I avoided full suspension, as at this price it would mean a very heavy and low specification bike. Also, kids like to go fast and a hardtail like this is more appropriate for hacking around the woods.

The Avid BB5, mechanical disc brakes are really effective. It is a shame they are not hydraulic, as the latter is better. For the price though, you cannot expect everything. Although others may say that V-Brakes are every bit as good as the mechanical discs, I have to disagree, these offer much more stopping power and are less prone to failing.

You get a nice specification bike here, that is worth upgrading as parts wear out. Perhaps when the brakes have had it I will put hydraulics on. This is a solid and well performing bike. Spend a little more if you can and avoid those cheap bikes this Christmas.

Summary: Spend a little more if you can and avoid those cheap bikes this Christmas