2025 Specialized Epic Hardtail Comp vs 2026 Specialized Rockhopper Sport

What changes on the Specialized Rockhopper Sport

Compared with the Specialized Epic Hardtail Comp in M, the Specialized Rockhopper Sport in S-27.5 places the top of the head tube 35 mm lower and 35 mm further back, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 25 mm shorter, which can contribute to quicker direction changes.

Frame stack

−35 mm

Lower front end

Frame reach

−35 mm

Shorter frame reach

Wheelbase

−25 mm

Shorter: quicker to change direction

Head angle

−0.5°

Slacker: calmer steering

Chainstays

n/a

One of the bikes has no number for this

The two frames

Only the Specialized Epic Hardtail Comp is drawn. The Specialized Rockhopper Sport numbers we have for size S-27.5 are missing the chainstay length.

Geometry side by side

Differences are the Specialized Rockhopper Sport minus the Specialized Epic Hardtail Comp. Full charts: 2025 Specialized Epic Hardtail Comp, 2026 Specialized Rockhopper Sport.

Where each sits in its class

Specialized Epic Hardtail CompSpecialized Rockhopper Sport

Each bike is ranked against the other XC bikes on Quiver, on frame geometry alone. Not your hand position or ride feel.

What each ships with

The stock build of each bike's first listed trim. Parts that match are dimmed.