Specialized Riprock 24 Review
- Price: $700
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: Ground Control Sport 24×2.35″
- Gear: 1 x 9
What we like about it: The 130mm saddle, narrower Q-factor, and shorter cranks help children align their hips, knees, and ankles, reducing the risk of injury.
What we didn’t like about it: No quick-release clamp for easy height adjustments.
Rating: (4.6/5)
The Specialized Riprock 24 boasts exceptional value, providing your child with outstanding performance for their most joyful experience. It also contributes to better interaction and physical activity, making your family relationships more enjoyable. It’s a low-cost, high-impact choice, and every family deserves to have one.
Below, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Specialized Riprock 24, and explore other versions. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also make comparisons with a few other bicycles. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow our content.
Riding Experience
Off-Roading
I bought tickets, reserved a hotel through IHG, and came to Camp Fortune with my son. Here, I chose the National trail. This trail is 929 meters long with a 119-meter elevation drop, making it a downhill route. It’s not very challenging and is perfect for kids.
On the rugged mountain trails, I watched my son riding the Specialized Riprock 24. I followed on my bike, embracing the morning breeze, and embarking on an exciting and challenging ride.
At the start, my son told me he felt very comfortable. The wide wheels provided stability and comfort. The wheels gripped the uneven gravel surface, making this bike look sturdy.
My son adjusted the handlebars continually, pedaling away. During turns, the bike was steady and agile, making each turn a confident, joyful, and proud experience for him. On the narrow trails, my son weaved through them, feeling the interplay of speed and wind.
Continuing On
As the terrain gradually steepened, my son adjusted his breathing and threw himself into the climb. The efficient microSHIFT Advent of this bike allowed him to easily tackle the climb, testing his endurance and determination with each ascent. I saw my son gaze ahead, summoning courage, and striving to climb uphill.
The condition of the mountain trails was sometimes rough, sometimes muddy and slippery, requiring my son to navigate them with caution. The powerful C-STAR Hydraulic Disc Brake of the Specialized Riprock 24 provided both my son and me with a sense of security, enabling him to handle various challenging terrains.
Time passed unnoticed as he immersed himself in the off-road riding experience and unknowingly arrived at the finish line. Watching my son, soaked in sweat, I could feel his passion for cycling, his enthusiasm, and his eagerness for the next ride.
Specifications
The Specialized Riprock 24 is an exceptional youth mountain bike. It features an A1 Premium Butted Alloy frame, which is both sturdy and lightweight. Its A1 Premium Butted Alloy fork is also very durable and easily repairable even if damaged. Its microSHIFT Advent rear derailleur delivers outstanding performance, providing smooth gear shifting for a smoother ride.
Additionally, this bike comes equipped with C-STAR Hydraulic Disc Brakes, offering excellent braking performance to ensure the child’s safety. It also features Ground Control Sport 24×2.35″ tires with a versatile tread pattern, allowing for fast rolling speed, excellent grip, and traction, providing extra speed, support, and stable handling.
Video
Other Versions
After numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this outstanding youth mountain bike. However, many riders have their own performance and component requirements, so we conducted further research on similar bikes.
Specialized Riprock Expert 24
The Specialized Riprock Expert 24 features a hardtail suspension with 100mm front travel, providing excellent shock absorption for a smoother ride. Moreover, this bike has a 1×11 drivetrain, which offers a wider gear range and smoother shifting compared to the 1×9 drivetrain of the Riprock 24. Notably, the Riprock Expert 24 is equipped with a Manitou Machete JUNIT fork, which is highly suitable for young riders due to its lightweight, high-quality chassis, and easily adjustable Expert Air spring system, offering strong control.
The Specialized Riprock Expert 24 is more comfortable than the Specialized Riprock 24, with a 1.47 stack/reach ratio. This geometry allows riders to open up their chest, making breathing easier during long rides. Additionally, it has a lower head tube angle for a very stable ride.
What do we like about it?
- 130mm saddle, narrower Q-factor, and shorter cranks to help children align their hips, knees, and ankles, reducing the risk of injury.
- Currently on sale for only $649.99, offering great value.
- Lightweight components and a modern geometry tailored for children make the bike perfect.
- Narrower handlebars and the latest geometry shape provide excellent bike control, making riders enjoy cycling on this bike.
What don’t we like about it?
- No quick-release clamp for easy height adjustments.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- What age of children is this bike suitable for?
It is suitable for riders around 10 years old with an average height of 4’7″–5’6″.
- What color options are available for this bike?
It comes in four colors: Gloss Blaze / Black; Gloss Sage / White; Gloss Sky / Black; and Satin Cast Black / Smoke.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are just general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size the best way is to go for a test ride.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’7″ – 5’6″ | 119cm-142cm |
Specs
Build
| Frame | A1 Premium Butted Alloy, unisex frame, internal cable routing, 148mm thru-axle, 30.9mm dropper post ready, replaceable derailleur hanger compatible Colors: Gloss Blaze / Black; Gloss Sage / White; Gloss Sky / Black; Satin Cast Black / Smoke |
| Fork | A1 Premium Butted Alloy, Alloy steerer, 15×110 mm, W/Mini Fender |
| Bottom Bracket | Square-tapered, 68mm |
| Stem | Stout 3D-forged alloy, 31.8mm, 6-degree rise |
| Handlebar | Double-butted alloy, 9-degree backsweep, 31.8mm |
| Saddle | Kids Bridge Saddle, 130mm |
| Seatpost | Specialized, 6061 alloy, 2-bolt clamp, 0mm setback, 30.9mm |
| Pedals | Nylon platform w/ reflectors |
| Grips | Specialized Trail Grips, lock-on |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | microSHIFT Advent, 1×9 w/ clutch |
| Crank | Forged Alloy, 140mm length, narrow Q-factor, w/ chainguard, 30T, chainguard |
| Shifters | microSHIFT Advent SL-M6190, 9-speed , short reach triggers for easy operation |
| Cassette | microSHIFT Advent, 9-speed, 11-42t |
| Chain | KMC X9EPT, 9-speed, anti-corrosion coating w/ reusable Missing Link™ |
| Brakes | C-STAR Hydraulic Disc Brake, 160mm rotor, adjustable reach |
Wheels
| Rims | Alloy, 16mm depth, 25mm internal width, 28H |
| Spokes | Stainless, 14g |
| Front Hub | Alloy, 6-Bolt, 28H, 15×110 Boost |
| Rear Hub | Alloy, 6-Bolt, 28H, 12×148 Boost, 11-speed compatiable |
| Tires | Front: Ground Control Sport, 24×2.35″, Rear: Ground Control Sport, 24×2.35″ |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Giant XTC Jr 24 Lite | Click View | Giant Junior Sport, 24×2.1″ | 1 x 7 | Aluminum | Shimano Tourney |
| Co-op REV 24 | Click View | Slant Six Sport, 24 x 2.6 in. | 1 x 7 | Aluminum | Shimano Tourney |
| Scott Scale RC 400 | Click View | Schwalbe Rocket Ron Evolution 24×2.25″ | 1 x 11 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| BMC Twostroke AL 24 | Click View | Kenda Booster 24×2.4″ | 1 x 8 | Aluminum | SRAM X4 |
Specialized Riprock 24 vs. Giant XTC Jr 24 Lite
The Giant XTC Jr 24 Lite features a steel fork, while the Specialized Riprock 24 comes with an aluminum fork. A steel fork offers greater rigidity and durability but is heavier. On the other hand, an aluminum fork is lighter but may exhibit poorer metal fatigue resistance. Additionally, the Specialized Riprock 24 is equipped with a 1×9 drivetrain, whereas the Giant XTC Jr 24 Lite has a 1×7 drivetrain. The 1×9 drivetrain offers a broader gear range and smoother shifting.
The Giant XTC Jr 24 Lite has rim brakes only, while the Specialized Riprock 24 features hydraulic disc brakes. Rim brakes are lighter but provide moderate braking performance. Furthermore, they tend to accumulate a lot of heat when braking, especially during extended downhill rides, which can lead to overheating of the wheel rims. In contrast, hydraulic disc brakes offer excellent braking performance, even though they are heavier, providing prompt and responsive braking.
Learn More: Is Giant XTC JR Disc 24 Worth Buying? [Giant XTC JR Disc 24 Review]
Specialized Riprock 24 vs. Co-op REV 24
From a geometry perspective, the Co-op REV 24 has a stack/reach ratio of 1.39, whereas the Specialized Riprock 24 has a stack/reach ratio of 1.28. A larger stack/reach ratio results in a more relaxed geometry, allowing riders to open up their chest and breathe better during long rides. In contrast, a smaller geometry sacrifices comfort for efficiency, providing more power when pedaling.
Additionally, the Co-op REV 24 has a head tube angle of 69 degrees, which is greater than the head tube angle of the Specialized Riprock 24 at 68 degrees. A smaller head tube angle provides a more stable and comfortable ride. Furthermore, the Co-op REV 24 features wider 2.6-inch tires, while the Specialized Riprock 24’s tires are 2.35 inches wide. Wider tires can adapt to softer road surfaces, offering stronger support in such conditions.
Learn More: Is Co-op DRT 1.1 A Perfect Selection? – [Co-op DRT 1.1 Review]
Specialized Riprock 24 vs. Scott Scale RC 400
The Scott Scale RC 400 is equipped with a 1×11 drivetrain. Compared to the Specialized Riprock 24’s 1×9 drivetrain, the 1×11 drivetrain offers a wider gear range and exceptionally smooth shifting. The Scott Scale RC 400 uses Shimano Deore, while the Specialized Riprock 24 features microSHIFT Advent. Deore is slightly lighter than Advent, but after some use, it may produce some noise.
It’s worth noting that the Scott Scale RC 400 is faster than the Specialized Riprock 24, capable of reaching speeds up to 21mph. Additionally, it has a stack/reach ratio of 1.4, which is larger than the Specialized Riprock 24’s 1.28, enhancing rider comfort. The Specialized Riprock 24 has a more aggressive geometry, emphasizing efficiency.
Furthermore, the head tube angle of the Scott Scale RC 400 is also larger than that of the Specialized Riprock 24. Therefore, the Specialized Riprock 24 provides a smoother and more stable ride.
Learn More: Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]
Specialized Riprock 24 vs. BMC Twostroke AL 24
The Specialized Riprock 24 provides riders with Nylon platform pedals with reflectors and Specialized Trail Grips. If you opt for the BMC Twostroke AL 24, you’ll need to spend more time searching for suitable pedals and grips. Additionally, the BMC Twostroke AL 24 features a 1×8 drivetrain, whereas the Specialized Riprock 24’s 1×9 drivetrain offers a wider gear range and smoother shifting.
However, the BMC Twostroke AL 24 is slightly faster than the Specialized Riprock 24, capable of reaching speeds up to 21mph. Moreover, from a geometry perspective, the BMC Twostroke AL 24’s geometry provides a more comfortable riding experience for kids. The 40mm BB drop lowers the bike’s center of gravity, resulting in a smoother ride, although it may pose some challenges when making turns and navigating obstacles. It’s worth mentioning that the BMC Twostroke AL 24 has slightly wider tires, offering better support.
Learn More: Is BMC Twostroke AL 24 Worth Buying? [BMC Twostroke AL 24 Review]
Summary
This is our review of the Specialized Riprock 24. It is an outstanding youth mountain bike that provides an excellent off-road experience for your child. Based on our evaluation, we give it a high rating of 4.6. If you’re looking for more bike information, please check out our other reviews.
Finally, if you enjoy our content, feel free to share it with your friends, and if our content has been helpful to you, you can click the email subscription button below. Thanks for your support!
