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 XL-29 places the top of the head tube 32 mm higher and 35 mm further forward, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 61 mm longer, which can contribute to stability at speed.

Frame stack

+32 mm

Higher front end

Frame reach

+35 mm

Longer frame reach

Wheelbase

+61 mm

Longer: steadier at speed

Head angle

±0.0°

About the same head angle

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 XL-29 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.