Bike projects often spark a unique thrill, sometimes even overshadowing the ride itself. For me, the allure of creation, of assembling a functional machine from disparate parts, is incredibly captivating. Ideas for builds are always simmering, whether actively taking shape in my workshop or just concepts floating in my mind. Parts and frames seem to multiply, filling spaces with dusty, disorganized potential. It can take years for these visions to materialize, but when they do, the satisfaction is immense. This sentiment fueled the creation of this Specialized Hardrock Bike.
A meticulously crafted Specialized Hardrock basket bike build, showcasing the transformation from vintage frame to functional art.
About three years ago, my partner Emily’s bike was unfortunately wrecked in an accident, leaving her without a ride. Coincidentally, I had just finished a single-speed project and was eager to dive into another. I had amassed a collection of vintage 90s Shimano components over fifteen years, patiently waiting for the right frame to complement them. With Emily’s somewhat reluctant agreement (she knew this project was perhaps more for my enjoyment than hers initially), I ventured onto eBay and discovered a true treasure: a 1993 Hardrock Ultra with a vibrant pink and purple fade. It was a size that suited both of us, and the color scheme instantly transported me back to my childhood in Marin County during the early 90s.
Close-up view of the Specialized Hardrock’s cockpit, highlighting the vintage Shimano XTR shifters and levers, components of this thoughtful retro bike build.
The initial assembly of this specialized hardrock bike was somewhat unconventional. I already possessed most of the necessary components, all of high quality. While some might question the logic of using premium parts on a humble Hardrock frame, I find that perspective limiting. The drivetrain largely consisted of a near-complete XTR M900/950 groupset, salvaged from my father’s long-neglected Otis Guy beam bike, which had succumbed to rust. The XT rear wheel and original Kooka cranks (since replaced) were relics from my childhood Bontrager X-lite, a bike that had traversed countless miles on Mount Tam. A 1-inch King GripNut headset, needing either a home or an eBay listing, found its place on this build. To complete the initial setup, I quickly ordered a pair of 2.2 Maxxis Rekon tires online. Everything harmonized beautifully, and the bike was ridden extensively throughout the summer of 2023.
Side profile of the Specialized Hardrock, demonstrating its classic 90s mountain bike geometry and the eye-catching pink and purple fade paint job.
Front view of the Specialized Hardrock basket bike, showcasing the Wald basket mounted on a Soma Demi Porteur rack, perfect for urban adventures.
Rear detail of the Specialized Hardrock, emphasizing the vintage XTR M900 rear derailleur and cassette, components that add both performance and nostalgic charm.
The Hardrock has remained an ongoing “project bike,” with gradual additions and refinements over time. A Paul front wheel, an incredibly lucky $50 find at the Santa Fe Bike Swap, was added. The purple and blue Cook Bro’s cranks were the result of a late-night eBay search driven by insomnia and a desire for color-matched parts. A Thompson Elite 26.6 seatpost was acquired from the late Kenny Gonzales (RIP). The front rack was rescued from a bike shop’s trash bin, salvaged despite slightly bent stays and its aluminum construction (metal fatigue is a concern, and replacement might be necessary). A pair of brand-new 2.4 Maxxis Ardent tires, generously provided by a friend, were also incorporated. (Slight modifications with a hacksaw and file to the dropouts were needed to accommodate the extra tire width).
Detailed shot of the Specialized Hardrock’s front end, highlighting the Paul front hub laced to a Mavic rim and the practical front basket setup.
Regrettably, due to unexpected health issues, Emily is currently unable to ride. Consequently, I’ve essentially adopted the Hardrock as my town bike and basket bike for urban exploration and light dirt trails. Emily will eventually return to riding, but in the meantime, I’m more than happy to keep this wonderfully resurrected Specialized Hardrock bike ready for her.
Blake Hendsch with his revitalized Specialized Hardrock basket bike, a testament to resourceful bike building and the joy of vintage components.
Action shot of the Specialized Hardrock basket bike in its element, navigating urban dirt paths with style and vintage flair.
Build Specifications:
- Frame: 1993 Specialized Hardrock Ultra
- Shifters/Levers: Shimano XTR M950
- Brakes: Shimano XTR M950
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano XTR M900
- Front Derailleur: Shimano 400cx
- Front Wheel: Paul FHUB laced to Mavic X517 rim
- Rear Wheel: Shimano XT M750 laced to a random rim
- Tires: Maxxis Ardent 2.4
- Cassette: Shimano XTR M900 8 speed
- Cranks: Cook Bro’s Dog Bones
- Chainrings: Profile Racing, Shimano, and Avitar mix
- Pedals: Omnium
- Seatpost: Thompson Elite
- Saddle: Selle Anatomica x2
- Headset: King GripNut (circa 1996)
- Stem: Nitto Technomic
- Handlebars: Random parts bin find
- Rack: Bent Soma Demi Porteur with Wald basket
We appreciate all the Readers’ Rides submissions to The Radavist. The response has been overwhelming, and we look forward to sharing many more builds in the coming months. Please feel free to submit your bike, along with details, components, and any other relevant information. Photos should be landscape orientation. Thank you!
