Looking at the Specialized Hardrock MTB. Is it worth it to shell out the extra $$ for the Rockhopper instead?

Question

I test rode both of them, and l like them both the same.

Answer 1

If everything feels the same on the bikes then it really comes down to the components and their reliability. The largest difference that exists between them is probably their use of different forks. The hardrock uses a cheaper RST fork that's probably not extremely safe to take on tougher trail rides. The rockhopper has a slightly better RockShox fork that would be more reliable.

If the difference between the bikes is less than $75 then it might make more sense to get the better bike rather than replacing the fork of the cheaper one which will cost you more in the long run.