What do you think of my mountain bike build?

Question

I have an 03 Specialized Rockhopper Comp Disc FSR XC full suspension frame(basically the previous year Stumpjumper's frame) with a Fox Float R shock and Manitou Axel Super 100mm fork. The parts for this build i have are DT Swiss XR 1540 wheelset with Maxxis Larsen MiMo Exceptional series tires, Cane Creek S6 headset, Thomson Elite stem and seat post, Easton Monkeylite XC carbon rise handlebars, Specialized Toupe team saddle, 08 Shimano XT 770 crankset and 08 XT cassette 11-34t, XTR front and rear derailleurs, XTR chain, WTB Mototech lock on grips, XT shifter brake lever combo, XT hydraulic 160mm disc brakes. 87g titanium quick release skewers, Wellgo superlite platform pedals 208g. This bike is not built yet but i have been buying these parts for a while(almost all new) and have finally finished and will be getting it built by a local bike shop. I weigh 185 pounds and I'm 5'10. The frame is med 17 or 18. I would like some feedback on the build cause i never had a bike built for me by parts i personally chose, nor have i ever had a full suspension bike, My Specialized hardtail has made me very happy but i use that for fitness and have had fun and wanted to build a higher end bike to have some serious fun. Would this be a good bike for XC riding for my weight and height? I could always buy a newer or different sized frame and fork but this frame is what i happen to get a good deal on a while back and its in mint condition. feedback and constructive critizism is very much appreciated. THANKS

Answer 1

It's a pretty sweet setup and I think you'll be very happy with it when you get it built!  The frame size should be spot-on for you.  

The fork and shock are ok, but yeah, you could upgrade those (at least the fork) to something nicer.  The rear shock is good quality, but you might really appreciate one with a platform damping valve like the Manitou Swinger 3-way, Fox RP23, or Rockshox Monarch (or an older MC3 if you find one of those for a good price).  

If it were me, I'd swap the cassette for an 11-32T.....you'll save a little weight, gain a useful gear, and probably never miss that ultra-low 22x34T bailout gear.   I'd get a Sram chain (or another normal-rivet chain) instead of those PITA Shimano chains with their irritating and expensive special rivet pins.  Really, though, you have a really nice setup.  Ride it!   :o)

Answer 2

pretty sweet set-up! you should be fine size wise..

Answer 3

Height-wise, the frame would fit you fine, but I have a slender, tall build, so I'm not sure if you would want to go for a large frame for your weight. The components you listed made me drool, so those are good to go, lol. Ask someone in your local bike shop about frame size and body weight.

Answer 4

I think that you maybe should have built the bike up with sram X.0 . its way better quality and then you could have saved enough money to put better suspension on the bike such as a fox float Rp2 or 3 because those other features are very useful and the Manitou fork....a Fox Float would be a great fork for an xc bike. But if you were set on the xt/r build thats fine to...but your suspension is your contact with the ground.

As for sizing the rockhopper is a decent frame I think it is a great size for you...I am about 5'10 and I have ridden a medium rockhopper and it is a great bike!