What To Look For
Specialized has long been a leading name in mountain bikes. It offers a full range of bikes including cross country, competitive cross country, all mountain and freeride/downhill. It also offers several progressive hardtail and dirt jumper models. Expect to get anywhere from 6 to 8 inches of travel with its freeride bikes, 5 to 6 on its all mountain and just under 4 to 5 on its cross country models. Specialized bikes are outfitted with a full range of quality components including pieces from SRAM, Rock Shox, Fox, DT Swiss and Shimano. In addition to standard third-party components, many Specialized bikes include Specialized-built components like the AFR Brain Shock and S-works crank set. Specialized frames incorporate a variety of materials including 6600-series alloy, M5 alloy and carbon. Some Specialized Stumpjumper hardtails are under 20 pounds, making them some of the lightest cross country rides on the market.
Common Pitfalls
One great thing about Specialized is that they offer quality bikes over a range of styles. Don't get sold on any one model until you're sure that it's the right bike for you. Determine your riding style by analyzing the types of trails and features you actually intend to ride. Don't just run into the shop and buy the bike that looks the coolest within your price range. A killer freeride bike with 8 inches of travel will always look cool, but it's not going to serve you well if you intend to bike a lot of cross country trails with long climbs. Specialized is bound to have a bike that suits you perfectly; it's just a matter of finding it.
Where To Buy
A bike is one purchase that you should make at your local Specialized dealer. Open up your phone book and look for Specialized logo under local bike shops in your area, or use the "Find Dealer" feature on Specialized's website (linked below under Resources). Shopping at a local bike store will give you access to knowledgeable staff, allow you to get fitted in person and enable you to test ride the bike--all important factors when making the right decision.
Cost
Like any mountain bikes, Specialized bikes range widely in price. Each model offers several different price points such as Comp, Expert and Pro, each of which features slightly different components and technical specs that make for the different prices. In some cases, different frames such as carbon and alloy are available within the same Specialized bike model. For hardtails, expect to pay anywhere from $400, for very low-end Hardrock models that are good for recreational riding, but not for technical, advanced mountain biking to $6600 for the top-of-the-line Stumpjumper S-Works Carbon HT Disc. For full suspension models, prices range between $1450 and $8800. Many higher-end models are available as frame-only, for those who want to build their own bikes.
Accessories
When bike shopping, it always pays to consider any accessories that you may need. Some basics include a light for night riding, water bottle holder if you don't intend to use a hydration pack, tool kit and pump for your trail repairs and saddle bag to carry your tools and gear. Also analyze the bike for anything that could make your ride more comfortable, including different grips, different saddle and clipless vs. platform pedals.
