The Hardrock model from Specialized has been around for a long time, so in this cases, we have the Specialized Hardrock from 1999.
It seems that the Hardrock model has been discontinued in the most recent years, but we still have the ones from the 80s, 90s and the ones between 2000 – 2014.
If you are a Specialized fan, probably getting a Hardrock from the 90s is a great idea.
What is important about the 1999 model is that it has modern V-Brakes with normal clamps, the old-school style with steel frame, rigid fork.
What is not great is that it still has the old school quill stem.
Other than that, let’s see the specs.
Specialized Hardrock 1999 specs
– Normal v-brakes.
– Specialized tires on 26 inches wheels.
– Quill stem, 2 bolts.
– Narrow handlebar, flat, probably 620 or 640mm.
– SRAM grip shifters.
– Shimano Acera front and rear derailleurs.
– Steel frame.
– Plastic pedals.
– Pretty big and comfortable saddle.
– Rigid fork.
This bicycle can be found on craigslist or other local ads websites for about 50-100$, depending on the condition.
If you can find a good model in an very good state, it is a great deal to buy it. But if it is a a poor state, it is not because it will not be easy to restore it since you will not be able to find replacement parts everywhere.
Unless you plan to update it with modern parts, maybe make it a single-speed or 1×9 or 1×10 even though overall these bicycles should remain how they are, how they have been designed, with the old-school mechanics.
If you start to modify it too much, it will feel different.
Probably the best way to improve a bicycle like this is to clean it, grease it, change the pedals with some high quality ones and enjoy it.
Things to be careful when buying this bicycle
Be very careful if the seatpost is not stuck. Usually it is for these old bicycles.
The wheels need to be true.
The bicycle should not make any weird noises when being used.
There should be no play on the bottom bracket and on the wheel hubs.
Scratches are normal for such an old bike. But they should not be bothering.