Tools for Specialized Hardrock

The Hardrock, a mountain bike made by Specialized, was introduced to the world in the early 1980s. The original offering had no suspension and looks like a relic compared to the sleek, streamlined models of today. The Hardrock now comes with front suspension and uses Shimano components for much of the bike's mechanisms. When working on a Hardrock, or any mountain bike, you need specific tools for bicycles.

  1. Drivetrain

    • The Hardrock comes with a drivetrain comprised of the chain, gears/sprockets, pedals, cranks and bottom bracket. To work on these pieces, you should have a bottom-bracket tool, chain tool/chain cracker, chain whip (for removing the gears/sprockets), pedal wrench and full selection of metric allen keys.

    Wheels, Tires and Headset

    • Your tools should include a truing stand and spoke wrench--used to keep the wheels in true or replace broken spokes. A set of plastic tire levers is needed to pry tires off rims when the inner tubes need to be changed. Have an air pump available to fill tires when changing out tubes. You also will need a headset tool/press when working on the front fork or re-greasing the headset bearings. A 3-lb. rubber mallet is useful to help tap out headsets when working on the fork.

    Derailleurs, Brakes and Shifters

    • A set of allen keys along with a ratchet-style extender allows you to remove, adjust and work on the brakes, shifters and derailleurs of the Hardrock. Also keep on hand a selection of bicycle-chain lubes and Phil Wood bicycle grease. Crimpers, needle-nose pliers and wire cutters are needed when changing out cables to the brakes and derailleurs.