Old Rockhoppers
05-23-14, 09:33 AM
#76
Still learning
The chain is an easy fix, and if the seat adjustment is ok for you, then it is only academic. 
However, value on that bike because of condition is not very much. At 1.5 miles, you can always walk in a pinch, but if you are looking for dependability, I would be concerned about whether the BB and headset may be partly corroded due to the fact that the chain and rear cluster look as if they have been exposed to the elements, and the seat post could indicate the same... Possibly not stored real well.
I would personally keep looking.
However, value on that bike because of condition is not very much. At 1.5 miles, you can always walk in a pinch, but if you are looking for dependability, I would be concerned about whether the BB and headset may be partly corroded due to the fact that the chain and rear cluster look as if they have been exposed to the elements, and the seat post could indicate the same... Possibly not stored real well.I would personally keep looking.
Having just been in NYC in April, that Rockhopper qualifies as pristine by local standards! If your friend is letting it go for a portrait of Ulysses Grant, buy it.
05-23-14, 09:43 AM
#77
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I didn't notice it was NYC... Sometimes I forget to look, and I know that markets differ. Even though I am only 2 hours from NYC, the CL bikes here are a lot cheaper.
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05-23-14, 09:47 AM
#78
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05-23-14, 10:08 AM
#79
Still learning
05-23-14, 01:51 PM
#80
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Bikes: Bikes: 2015 Volagi Viaje XL, 85 Specialized Rockhopper w/drops, 81 Miyata 912, gone but not forgotten late 60s Coast To Coast Sting-Ray(J38 knockoff), Schwinn Typhoon, 75 Sekine GS, 81 Trek 412, 85 Trek 720 Touring.
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I may have one of the oldest ones here I have already posted it on MTN/Drop/Conversions.
I believe it’s an 85 I acquired it in 87 the owner said he bought it two years prior. I did find this 85 Specialized catalog that shows the Rockhopper. It is specked. differently than mine if the original owner had made any upgrades I think he would have told me so to sweeten the buy.
12 | Specialized Catalogue 1985 | Retrobike
I have the Deore derailleurs and shifters but BR-AT 50 brakeset and Shimano 14-30 Freewheel I see this specs. Suntour for the derailleurs and freewheel.
Here’s a shot of what’s left of the serial number for you mystery buffs
I believe it’s an 85 I acquired it in 87 the owner said he bought it two years prior. I did find this 85 Specialized catalog that shows the Rockhopper. It is specked. differently than mine if the original owner had made any upgrades I think he would have told me so to sweeten the buy.
12 | Specialized Catalogue 1985 | Retrobike
I have the Deore derailleurs and shifters but BR-AT 50 brakeset and Shimano 14-30 Freewheel I see this specs. Suntour for the derailleurs and freewheel.
Here’s a shot of what’s left of the serial number for you mystery buffs
Last edited by KAH; 05-23-14 at 03:11 PM.
05-23-14, 02:00 PM
#81
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I was going to say no more than a Double Andy.
05-23-14, 09:21 PM
#82
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11-18-14, 05:06 PM
#83
Junior Member
I'll post pics as soon as I get it back this week.
11-18-14, 07:42 PM
#85
Senior Member
Here is a Rockhopper Comp that I picked up at Goodwill. I got it all cleaned up, lubricated and tuned and then flipped it.
11-24-14, 09:07 AM
#87
Junior Member
Here it is, in all of its pie plate / wheel reflector glory
Paid $130, which isn't a screaming deal, but not too bad either considering the condition.
Old Suntour Mountech RD:
It was listed on CL as a Specialized "Hybrid" bike, but as soon as I saw the bullmoose bars I knew better.
Paint's in pretty good shape other than some chips and spots where the cable routing wore through the paint.
I've since covered those spots with gaffer's tape, may do the clear nail polish thing later, but then I'll still have the same problems with cable rub. Welds aren't the nicest, but I really like the geometry of the bike; it feels much quicker than my similar vintage Mongoose ATB, though the Mongoose feels like it has a faster top speed (that may be due to gearing/tires more than anything). I'm going to replace those terrible plastic grips (which are likely original) with some cheap foam Ritchey grips, and replace the tires with some budget-friendly Kendas since they're starting to dry rot, but other than that I think I'll keep it as is. I initially picked it up for a drop bar conversion, but I'm pretty enamored with the bullmoose bars. I think this will be a fun bike.
Paid $130, which isn't a screaming deal, but not too bad either considering the condition.
Old Suntour Mountech RD:
It was listed on CL as a Specialized "Hybrid" bike, but as soon as I saw the bullmoose bars I knew better.
Paint's in pretty good shape other than some chips and spots where the cable routing wore through the paint.
I've since covered those spots with gaffer's tape, may do the clear nail polish thing later, but then I'll still have the same problems with cable rub. Welds aren't the nicest, but I really like the geometry of the bike; it feels much quicker than my similar vintage Mongoose ATB, though the Mongoose feels like it has a faster top speed (that may be due to gearing/tires more than anything). I'm going to replace those terrible plastic grips (which are likely original) with some cheap foam Ritchey grips, and replace the tires with some budget-friendly Kendas since they're starting to dry rot, but other than that I think I'll keep it as is. I initially picked it up for a drop bar conversion, but I'm pretty enamored with the bullmoose bars. I think this will be a fun bike.
Last edited by nikku; 11-24-14 at 09:07 AM. Reason: grammar
11-24-14, 09:32 AM
#88
Senior Member
Here it is, in all of its pie plate / wheel reflector glory
Paid $130, which isn't a screaming deal, but not too bad either considering the condition.
Old Suntour Mountech RD:
It was listed on CL as a Specialized "Hybrid" bike, but as soon as I saw the bullmoose bars I knew better.
Paint's in pretty good shape other than some chips and spots where the cable routing wore through the paint.
I've since covered those spots with gaffer's tape, may do the clear nail polish thing later, but then I'll still have the same problems with cable rub. Welds aren't the nicest, but I really like the geometry of the bike; it feels much quicker than my similar vintage Mongoose ATB, though the Mongoose feels like it has a faster top speed (that may be due to gearing/tires more than anything). I'm going to replace those terrible plastic grips (which are likely original) with some cheap foam Ritchey grips, and replace the tires with some budget-friendly Kendas since they're starting to dry rot, but other than that I think I'll keep it as is. I initially picked it up for a drop bar conversion, but I'm pretty enamored with the bullmoose bars. I think this will be a fun bike.
Paid $130, which isn't a screaming deal, but not too bad either considering the condition.
Old Suntour Mountech RD:
It was listed on CL as a Specialized "Hybrid" bike, but as soon as I saw the bullmoose bars I knew better.
Paint's in pretty good shape other than some chips and spots where the cable routing wore through the paint.
I've since covered those spots with gaffer's tape, may do the clear nail polish thing later, but then I'll still have the same problems with cable rub. Welds aren't the nicest, but I really like the geometry of the bike; it feels much quicker than my similar vintage Mongoose ATB, though the Mongoose feels like it has a faster top speed (that may be due to gearing/tires more than anything). I'm going to replace those terrible plastic grips (which are likely original) with some cheap foam Ritchey grips, and replace the tires with some budget-friendly Kendas since they're starting to dry rot, but other than that I think I'll keep it as is. I initially picked it up for a drop bar conversion, but I'm pretty enamored with the bullmoose bars. I think this will be a fun bike.
11-24-14, 09:38 AM
#89
Junior Member
You did a fantastic job. I had those Suntour thumb shifters on my '85 Sekai Bigfoot and now they're on my Motobecane. I really like these shifters. They look and behave very simply and, for me, there is beauty in simplicity. Your rear Derailleur looks like it might be a Suntour Cycline Mark II or an ARX. Either way should shift wonderfully. Clear fingernail polish works or clear enamel from a craft or hobby store.
11-24-14, 09:46 AM
#91
Senior Member
11-24-14, 10:17 AM
#92
Senior Member
I think it was a low-end hybrid produced around 1987. There is very little info out there. Someone on this board did a drop bar conversion with the on-one midge rando bars and it looks great- i'd like to get it there some day.
11-24-14, 10:21 AM
#93
Senior Member
Here we go:
They're pretty nice! Stock is a 6-speed Light Action SIS drivetrain with Sugino triple crank. The difference between this frame and the Stumpjumper was the steel: The StreetStomper is not butted. Post a picture of yours so we can compare. Here's mine:
As bought for $50. Completely stock and with very little use:
After adding On One Mary Bars:
After conversion:
As bought for $50. Completely stock and with very little use:
After adding On One Mary Bars:
After conversion:
11-24-14, 11:37 AM
#94
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While it hasn't clouded up or destroyed the ink on the screen- I haven't actually used either derailleur, so I don't know how well it'll protect that screen.
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11-24-14, 07:53 PM
#95
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My '85 RockHopper looked like this one. Maybe it was an '86? Anyway, I found one to replace it with a few years ago.
Also had the next year model. A yellow one with chainstay U brake.
Have one of these now also. Which is just like the yellow RH, only Dinucci Green.
And one of these, with 24" wheels but in gray/silver, waiting to be cleaned up/built up.
Had a Magenta/DGreen SJ and a Green/white RockCombo that same decade. Was working at a multi sport shop (cycle, ski, hike, camp, canoe/kayak, fly fishing) that sold Specs, Treks, C'Dales, Centurions (have an '85 Ironman) and Euro frames. Most fun job I ever had.
Also had the next year model. A yellow one with chainstay U brake.
Have one of these now also. Which is just like the yellow RH, only Dinucci Green.
And one of these, with 24" wheels but in gray/silver, waiting to be cleaned up/built up.
Had a Magenta/DGreen SJ and a Green/white RockCombo that same decade. Was working at a multi sport shop (cycle, ski, hike, camp, canoe/kayak, fly fishing) that sold Specs, Treks, C'Dales, Centurions (have an '85 Ironman) and Euro frames. Most fun job I ever had.
Last edited by ofgit; 11-25-14 at 01:54 AM.
11-25-14, 01:04 AM
#96
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I didn't hear mention of the fact that the RockHopper took the place of the StumpJumper Sport model in the lineup in 1985, so price-wise seems to have actually been a re-designed StumpJumper Sport, with extensive yearly updating (Unicrown fork, Specialized crankset, Saturae rims and a return to the lugless <<mostly TIG>> construction of the very first StumpJumpers) that occurred going into 1985.
My first MTB was a 1984 StumpJumper Sport that was lugged and had Mountech Derailers and Shimano MC70 brakes.
I bought an all-original 1986 RockHopper the other day, a red one (just like ofgit's, above) with deer-head mech's and Shimano MC70 brakes. I wanted it for the parts that I could use to build up my 1981 StumpJumper frame, 95th one ever built, but now have decided that this RockHopper needs to remain stone-stock as it is in very good condition overall. I payed $70 for it at Salvation Army. It sold for 30% off of $100 because of the color of the price tag.
My first MTB was a 1984 StumpJumper Sport that was lugged and had Mountech Derailers and Shimano MC70 brakes.
I bought an all-original 1986 RockHopper the other day, a red one (just like ofgit's, above) with deer-head mech's and Shimano MC70 brakes. I wanted it for the parts that I could use to build up my 1981 StumpJumper frame, 95th one ever built, but now have decided that this RockHopper needs to remain stone-stock as it is in very good condition overall. I payed $70 for it at Salvation Army. It sold for 30% off of $100 because of the color of the price tag.
11-25-14, 08:55 AM
#98
Junior Member
I didn't hear mention of the fact that the RockHopper took the place of the StumpJumper Sport model in the lineup in 1985, so price-wise seems to have actually been a re-designed StumpJumper Sport, with extensive yearly updating (Unicrown fork, Specialized crankset, Saturae rims and a return to the lugless <<mostly TIG>> construction of the very first StumpJumpers) that occurred going into 1985.
My first MTB was a 1984 StumpJumper Sport that was lugged and had Mountech Derailers and Shimano MC70 brakes.
I bought an all-original 1986 RockHopper the other day, a red one (just like ofgit's, above) with deer-head mech's and Shimano MC70 brakes. I wanted it for the parts that I could use to build up my 1981 StumpJumper frame, 95th one ever built, but now have decided that this RockHopper needs to remain stone-stock as it is in very good condition overall. I payed $70 for it at Salvation Army. It sold for 30% off of $100 because of the color of the price tag.
My first MTB was a 1984 StumpJumper Sport that was lugged and had Mountech Derailers and Shimano MC70 brakes.
I bought an all-original 1986 RockHopper the other day, a red one (just like ofgit's, above) with deer-head mech's and Shimano MC70 brakes. I wanted it for the parts that I could use to build up my 1981 StumpJumper frame, 95th one ever built, but now have decided that this RockHopper needs to remain stone-stock as it is in very good condition overall. I payed $70 for it at Salvation Army. It sold for 30% off of $100 because of the color of the price tag.
And thanks for the info on where the RockHopper fell in the Specialized lineup, pretty interesting.
11-25-14, 07:02 PM
#99
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One Owner 1985 Rockhopper
18 speed.
All original components, except tires & tubes.
Frame: Double Butted CrMo Custom Gauge, Made In Taiwan.
Derailleurs: Shimano Deore.
Crank wheel decal: Computer Designed Drive System Biopace, Shimano crank arms.
Quick release on hubs & seat post "Specialized".
Saddle: Vetta Italy.
Wheels: Saturae, 26 X 1.5 Japan.
Pedals: G-5000 MKS.
Shifters: Shimano Deore Light Action SIS (system indexed shifting).
Brake levers & calipers: Shimano.
The bike has been ridden a lot, many touched-up paint chips.
It is a favorite, which is why it is still kept in the house.
These were built when Shimano & Specialized were establishing their excellent reputations.
They are dream bikes in excellence & quality.
And, most important, rideability. Sweet ride.
All original components, except tires & tubes.
Frame: Double Butted CrMo Custom Gauge, Made In Taiwan.
Derailleurs: Shimano Deore.
Crank wheel decal: Computer Designed Drive System Biopace, Shimano crank arms.
Quick release on hubs & seat post "Specialized".
Saddle: Vetta Italy.
Wheels: Saturae, 26 X 1.5 Japan.
Pedals: G-5000 MKS.
Shifters: Shimano Deore Light Action SIS (system indexed shifting).
Brake levers & calipers: Shimano.
The bike has been ridden a lot, many touched-up paint chips.
It is a favorite, which is why it is still kept in the house.
These were built when Shimano & Specialized were establishing their excellent reputations.
They are dream bikes in excellence & quality.
And, most important, rideability. Sweet ride.
Last edited by Peugeotlover; 11-25-14 at 07:13 PM.
11-25-14, 10:21 PM
#100
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18 speed.
All original components, except tires & tubes.
Frame: Double Butted CrMo Custom Gauge, Made In Taiwan.
Derailleurs: Shimano Deore.
Crank wheel decal: Computer Designed Drive System Biopace, Shimano crank arms.
Quick release on hubs & seat post "Specialized".
Saddle: Vetta Italy.
Wheels: Saturae, 26 X 1.5 Japan.
Pedals: G-5000 MKS.
Shifters: Shimano Deore Light Action SIS (system indexed shifting).
Brake levers & calipers: Shimano...
All original components, except tires & tubes.
Frame: Double Butted CrMo Custom Gauge, Made In Taiwan.
Derailleurs: Shimano Deore.
Crank wheel decal: Computer Designed Drive System Biopace, Shimano crank arms.
Quick release on hubs & seat post "Specialized".
Saddle: Vetta Italy.
Wheels: Saturae, 26 X 1.5 Japan.
Pedals: G-5000 MKS.
Shifters: Shimano Deore Light Action SIS (system indexed shifting).
Brake levers & calipers: Shimano...
The StumpJumper from around that same year seemed to have what some would consider "the worst of everything", including Suntour indexing, BioPace chainrings, delicate 6sp freewheel axle and the under-chainstay-mounted U-brakes, but the frame geometry was at least finally getting modernized.
Around 1990 was when nearly everything seemed to be in order with Shimano MTB componentry, even the Exage gruppos were excellent but perhaps for the early "push-push" Rapid-Fire shifting, and only a bad suspension fork might present itself to mess things up.
