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How expensive does biking fun have to be?

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 02.04.2017

How expensive does biking fun have to be?Photo: Wolfgang Watzke
How expensive does biking fun have to be?
High-end bike companies in particular are outdoing each other with high-tech machines at record prices. Favourable price regions are under the rule of the mail order companies. What can the Specialized Rockhopper do for 799 euros?
13.35 kilos, 2x9 gears, 29 inches, butted head tube. The Specialized Rockhopper Comp offers a strikingly sporty package for 799.Photo: Florentin Vesenbeckh 13.35 kilos, 2x9 gears, 29 inches, butted head tube. The Specialized Rockhopper Comp offers a strikingly sporty package for 799.

At what price does biking fun begin? This question is not so easy to answer. If you spend a lot of time researching the latest developments in MTB technology, you will quickly end up with a dizzyingly high answer, because manufacturers pay dearly for high-tech. The good thing is that in most cases, the extra price is also accompanied by noticeably more performance, comfort or riding fun. In a direct comparison, thru axles, lightweight carbon frames and top suspension forks offer a clear advantage. During the test of 11 affordable hardtails under 800 euros, it was refreshing to realise once again that these mountain bikes are also good fun and put a grin on the face of even spoilt BIKE testers.

The moderate trails in the Vinschgau Valley demanded sporty characteristics from the bikes. The chance to find out whether an ice-cream parlour bomber or a sporty mountain bike is behind the concept. Many test candidates mastered the challenge with flying colours.Photo: Wolfgang Watzke The moderate trails in the Vinschgau Valley demanded sporty characteristics from the bikes. The chance to find out whether an ice-cream parlour bomber or a sporty mountain bike is behind the concept. Many test candidates mastered the challenge with flying colours.

In terms of technology, the bikes in this class are the same as they were a good ten years ago: Quick-release axles on the front and rear wheels, weak suspension forks, front derailleurs with clamp mounts, in some cases nine-speed drivetrains and 1 1/8-inch head tubes. In many cases, however, you only notice the difference in direct comparison with current high-end bikes. On the Specialised Rockhopper Comp you take a sporty, stretched-out seat, no sign of an ice-cream parlour bomber. Good rolling tyres, a comparatively low weight and the long top tube ensure good climbing characteristics and plenty of propulsion. With these prerequisites, the bike is also equipped for longer tours.

You won't find thru axles in this price range. In direct comparison, the loss of stiffness is noticeable - but beginners and occasional riders will also be happy with quick-releases.Photo: Florentin Vesenbeckh You won't find thru axles in this price range. In direct comparison, the loss of stiffness is noticeable - but beginners and occasional riders will also be happy with quick-releases. Triple cranks are common in this price range. Specialized relies on the sportier double version, combined with a nine-speed cassette.Photo: Florentin Vesenbeckh Triple cranks are common in this price range. Specialized relies on the sportier double version, combined with a nine-speed cassette.
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The SR Suntour XCR Air air suspension fork can be optimally adjusted to the rider's weight and offers adjustable rebound - both of which are not a given in this price range. Nevertheless, the fork remains one of the most striking shortcomings compared to more expensive bikes. The response behaviour is mediocre and the front wheel tends to bounce. The lockout, which can be activated from the handlebars, emphasises the uphill ambitions of the red 29-inch bike. The steep steering angle (70.8°) makes the bike agile, but also a little tippy in tight corners. On the other hand, the well-designed cockpit with short stem (70 mm) and wide handlebars (750 mm) brings a lot of composure to trail rides. The hard rubber compound of the 2.1 Specialized tyres somewhat limits the urge to hit the trails.

Pleasing: The affordable Shimano disc brakes work hydraulically and provide sufficient bite for gentle terrain. That's all you need in this class! However, the long levers take some getting used to.Photo: Florentin Vesenbeckh Pleasing: The affordable Shimano disc brakes work hydraulically and provide sufficient bite for gentle terrain. That's all you need in this class! However, the long levers take some getting used to. Savers have to do without internal cable routing - but on the Rockhopper the cables run cleanly along the down tube and are closed throughout. No loss of function whatsoever!Photo: Florentin Vesenbeckh Savers have to do without internal cable routing - but on the Rockhopper the cables run cleanly along the down tube and are closed throughout. No loss of function whatsoever! The hallmark of a budget hardtail: multifunctional dropouts that allow mudguards to be fitted. Even the sporty Specialized hardtail can keep up.Photo: Florentin Vesenbeckh The hallmark of a budget hardtail: multifunctional dropouts that allow mudguards to be fitted. Even the sporty Specialized hardtail can keep up.

Read on to find out how the price-conscious Specialized compares to the competition between 699 and 800 euros in the big beginners' test in BIKE 5/2017 - on newsstands from 4 April. Eleven bikes compared: Bergamont Revox 6.0, Felt Nine 60, Kona Fire Mountain, Kreidler Dice 27.5 5.0, KTM Ultra Fire 29, Radon ZR Team 29, Rocket Bikes Race Sport 27.5, Silverback Sola 4, Specialised Rockhopper Comp, Superior XC 879, Univega Summit 6.0.

BIKE 5/2017 - available from 4 April at newsagents, in the BIKE app and as a digital edition.Photo: BIKE Magazin BIKE 5/2017 - available from 4 April at newsagents, in the BIKE app and as a digital edition.
Florentin Vesenbeckh

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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