Buying my new bike soon

[Colin B]

Should be getting my new MTB soon and after much looking I decided that the 2014 specialised hard rock disc was a good bike to get as a starter bike . To start its gonna be used as a commuter and some light trail and canal path and maybe bigger stuff as I go along .
Through every review I've seen it written that its a bike screaming for better forks and I will probably get a set in the future once I've destroyed the stock ones , but my question is , is this bike worth an upgrade or two or would my money be better spent if I save for a higher spec bike should I continue riding .
Also apologies in advance if I've repeat posted but I couldn't find anything similar

 

[Big Nick]

A hybrid sounds a better bet for your needs

 

[Colin B]

I considered the hybrid route , but my plan is to go more to the MTB side of things also as I live right next to a canal and the path leads directly to my place of work I think it'll be better than hybrid

 

[Colin B]

Any recommendations at a level I won't need to sell a kidney to buy lol

 

[Cycleops]

You'll find that a hybrid would be equally good over canal towpaths. I would ditch the suspension too, the tyres give you just as much comfort over such surfaces.

 

[Cyclist33]

I would put fork upgrade top of the list on an entry level mountain bike like the hardrock, way above wheels.

 

[Cyclist33]

You'll find that a hybrid would be equally good over canal towpaths. I would ditch the suspension too, the tyres give you just as much comfort over such surfaces.

... because with a half decent fork you can start enjoying what hardtails are made for.

 

[vickster]

Look at Paul's cycles for good deals on older models

How much is the Specialized? Does it have mechanical or hydraulic discs?

 

[stevede]

Have a spesh myself built up from an older Rockhopper Pro frame and a mix of new & old components. Their frames are well regraded by many.

I know the Ashton canal very well and there's not too much on it that would require major league suspension. I can however vouch for lots & lots of mud .

My view would be to get yourself on the bike, and if you want to upgrade as bits wear out do so then. It's easy to fall into the trap of buying "better" when the reality is it may not be making much difference to your riding in the early stages.

When you do get your bike, head off towards Marple and then down the Macclesfield canal coming back via the Middlewood way. Nice ride out with virtually no cars. (dogs & ignorant walkers are another story).

If you want some company, drop me a pm

Regards

Steve

 

[Colin B]

Look at Paul's cycles for good deals on older models

How much is the Specialized? Does it have mechanical or hydraulic discs?

Its this one
http://www.harryhallcycles.co.uk/m1b0s18p3594/SPECIALIZED-Hardrock-26-Disc-2014

 

[Colin B]

Cheers Steve will take you up on that at some point because I quite fancied up Marple way

 

[vickster]

Something like this may have a better spec

http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/m1b0s2p3692/CANNONDALE-TRAIL-SL-5-2011
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/m1b0s2p3847/GT-AVALANCHE-3-0-DISC-(HYDRAULIC)-2012
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/m1b0s2p4505/GIANT-REVEL-1-LTD-2012

 

[Cyclist33]

Snap that Avalanche up! Great bikes and for £385 a bargain.

 

[Colin B]

I do like the look of that vickster as for specs well I am literally as dumb as dish water mate and don't understand any of it . My choice has literally been based on YouTube and online reviews so I'd have to take your word and knowledge that its better , but I'm a big fan of black anything so it appeals straight away

 

[vickster]

Oh cripes did I suggest something black...%£@!