Staff Bikes; Levi's Specialized Rockhopper
Words: Braden Govoni Photographs: Phil Bones
To the truth that we all face, Nothing lasts forever, Our efforts can go to waste, But you haven’t left me empty, Even if it was just a taste.
- Ian Mackaye
The impermanent nature of all things does not exempt the humble bicycle. Someday, all that came from stardust will return to the same.
But maybe the closest thing that one of these human-powered machines of grace will come to immortality is in the form of the steel 90’s mountain bike.
All those years ago, something special happened. While bicycle companies were trying to figure out exactly what a “mountain bike” was, they accidentally produced one of the bicycle’s most stalwart archetypes.
Geometry, tire clearances, and ride feel that were once used to conquer early mountain bike trails have ended up somehow working out perfectly for the JRA lifestyle, even as “mountain bikes” have evolved far from this moment in time.
How many owners has this frame had?
How many parts have been broken, replaced, or just upgraded along the way?
As Levi’s Rockhopper approaches “bike of Theseus” territory, it’s probably living its best life. Commuter, errand runner, casual tourist, party animal. A true jack of all trades.
Specs.
Frame: Specialized Rockhopper
Stem: Nitto Technomic
Bars: Crust X Crumbworks KT Bar
Seatpost: Daija Cycleworks
Saddle: Berthod
Shifter: Microshift thumbie
Derailleur: Shimano Deore
Crankset: Sugino arms, Wolf Tooth chainring
Cassette: 11-42 10 speed
Chain: Shimano
Brakes: Tektro Oryx calipers with Tektro levers
Wheels: Outpost 26 aint dead tubeless
Tires: Panaracer Gravel King
Grips: Ergon
Pedals: Sim Works Taco
Front rack: Jack Rack
Rear bag: Swift Industries Catalyst
