Specialized Rockhopper 1999 sizing question

I

IMD

Retro Newbie
Hi all, I have just bought a Specialised Rockhopper A1 FS from I think, 1999. I also have an old late 90s Orange O2 that is 19inch, but the Rockhopper is smaller. I've measure from the centre crank to the top of the seat tube and it is 18 inch. I've also read that these should be measured centre to top - what does this mean? Centre to top of seat tube or somewhere else.

I'm 5'11" and I'm worried it's slightly too small....maybe it's actually a 17inch if measured another way. It seems to ride ok, but a friend said I looked big on it! Not that they have any cycling experience and I know that MTBs can be a bit smaller for off road use.

The stem seems an odd one too...any thoughts?

Any help much appreciated.

Ian
 

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You’ve measured it correctly, it is indeed an 18”. I’m 5’9 and ride an 18”, I’d say that an 18” would be too small for you to be honest.

Sure you can make it fit, but as it’s not the highest spec, is it worth it? You could always try selling and getting a bigger one.
 
Thanks for your message. I've re-measured and it's actually 19in from bottom bracket to top of seat tube.

It is odd, as when I sit on it, it looks small compared to my Orange. Maybe I'm not used to the sloping frame design. Comfortable to ride though. I'm just looking for a cheap second bike to knock about on for a while and the frame on this isn't bad as far as I know.
 

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Re:

How long is the top tube (from the centre of the seat tube to the centre of the head tube)?

Aside from that, it looks like you would benefit from raising the saddle and as for that adjustable stem . . . It looks like it's been set to about a 70 degree rise! Try adjusting it to just a shallow rise: that will increase the reach and make the bike feel less cramped. (In due course, if you keep the bike, you might want to replace the stem but, for now, it might be useful for trying to find a comfortable riding position.)
 
Hi, thanks for your suggestions.

The top tube is 23 inches from center to centre.

Yes, the saddle does need raising! I hadn't adjusted it when I took the pic :)

The stem is some quiet cheap adjustable one, which just won't adjust and is fully seized. I've just removed it.

Any thoughts on a decent replacement stem? I happy to check Ebay for a used one in keeping with the bike's age or a decent but not overly priced new one.

Cheers, Ian
 
You can pickup period correct Specialized stems quite easily on eBay, you’d need maybe a 120 to 130....but then it’s all personal preference at the end of the day.

I run a 120 on my 18” Stumpjumper
 
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