This is my bicycle, a Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc 2007.
It has the following features:
- Disc brakes (cable operated)
- 4″ travel RST front suspension
- Relatively lightweight frame
- 24 speed Shimano derailleur gears
I bought it for recreation, hence the choice of a mountain bike. Fortunately it’s still suitable for my commute, most of which is off road. I chose it because it has disc brakes, front suspension and because it was cheap (~£300). I’m very pleased with the brakes, but disappointed that dérailleur gears haven’t really moved on compared to my 1990 Trek 820. They are still rubbish! If I ride enough to justify it, I will get hydraulic gears.
The overall quality of the bike seems good, but the frame isn’t quite straight. The bike pulls to the left slightly, though it can still be ridden no hands with a bit of concentration. The top tube is also quite high, giving perilously little clearance between it and ones family jewels, despite my height being towards the upper end of the range suggested for the frame size. Apparently this is a common design flaw on mountain bikes with front suspension, so you have been warned!
All in all, I’m happy with the bike, though I think I’ll have a good look at some British bikes (some are listed here) next time I come to buy.
Could try using Gore-tex cables. No stretching apparently, although I’ll stress, I’ve not used them myself.