Specialized Rockhopper Range Guide

Who is it for?

The budget hardtail is a staple in any brand's lineup, providing aspiring mountain bikers with their first step into the sport. The Specialized Rockhopper is arguably the best hardtail mountain bike in its category, offering unbeatable technology at a smart, wallet friendly price point. It is versatile too, with its tough build kit providing a perfect base for those riding XC, singletrack and even commuting. For an entry level model it quickly establishes itself as much, much more.

The Rockhopper is as comfortable on a day long excursion as it is on the red trail at your local trail centre. Whilst not having the most aggressive geometry available, it stays stable and efficient on technical terrain and would be a comfortable option for someone unsure of where their MTB journey will take them.

Want to hit the trails on your way to work? The Rockhopper is a sturdy, reliable choice for those with a mixed-terrain commute, able to fit a pannier rack and kickstand. Read more about how riding to work can improve your lifestyle here.

The frame

The Rockhopper name has been around almost as long as the sport itself. Initially a fully-rigid 26" wheeled, CrMo frame MTB, it has evolved to use Specialized's premium A1 aluminium frame material and a suspension fork. This offers an optimal blend of weight and comfort, ideal for its XC intentions. A threaded bottom bracket allows for fuss-free replacements and maintenance, and internal cable routing further improves longevity by keeping cables safely out of harm's way.

All models in the lineup offer dropper post compatibility, a step that many manufacturers overlook on their hardtail MTB's. Fitting a dropper is one of the best upgrades you can make to any trail hardtail, adding flow and versatility to your riding by allowing you to lower the saddle for descents and raise it for climbing, all at the push of a button. The 2021 model retains the cross country angles as seen on the Rockhopper in previous years, but with a nod towards contemporary progressive geometry. This sees the introduction of a longer top tube and improved standover clearance, giving a more confidence inspiring ride than ever.

Beyond gender

You may notice that there is no women's specific Rockhopper available, but this is by design. Specialized's Beyond Gender approach sees them create bikes for people, not genders. Their research found that there was far more difference between riders of different heights than there were riders of different sexes. Because of this, their bikes feature proportionally sized components for riders of all heights, whether male or female.

Notable on the Rockhopper is the size specific fork specification. Different sized models will receive varying amounts of suspension travel, allowing Specialized to keep the geometry consistent across the available sizes.

What size Rockhopper should you choose?

The Rockhopper has expanded into territory previously held by the Specialized Pitch, a 27.5" hardtail that served as a perfect entry level model for teens and adults alike. This means that for 2021, the Rockhopper is available in a range of sizes and wheel sizes. So which one is perfect for you?

27.5" Wheels

Perfect for shorter riders and those looking for a lively ride, 27.5" wheels are more maneuverable than their 29" counterparts. They accelerate fast and corner well, with their shorter wheelbase giving the bike a nimble feel. The 27.5" Rockhopper is only available in sizes XS-M, with it being recommended that taller riders opt for the larger 29" wheels.

29" Wheels

Ideal for taller riders and for those looking to push their XC boundaries, 29" wheels offer a higher top speed and are often seen as faster than 27.5" bikes. Their larger diameter copes better with rough terrain, offering a smoother ride and allowing you to carry increased speed over rocks and roots. This comes at the sake of maneuverability, with the larger wheels requiring a little more heft in the corners and being less responsive. The 29" Rockhopper is only available in sizes M-XXL, with shorter riders being more suited to the 27.5" version.