King of the mountain bike
Mike Sinyard's company, Specialized, is a top bike brand. What do you think of Specialized and its products?
From simon, melbourne australia i think Mike is doing a great job for the cycling comunity with his forward thinking approach! keep up the great work..
From Jason Leola, PA yes, but that's true of all the american brands except cannondale until you get into the high end carbons, which are all made right here.
From Jason, Leola, PA all my new bikes are specialized. I have other stuff that I got used, but when I'm spending my hard earned cash on new products it'as always specialized. why? because they come with their body geometry family of gear, which I always outfit my bikes with anyway because it's more comfortable. It saves me a couple hundred per bike to start with Specialized bikes than to have to re outfit another brand.
Dream bike?
Road… Specialized Roubaix SRAM
Mountain… Rockhopper pro disc
From MG, Dallas, TX Great article. Thanks for sharing their story. I have owned a Specialized Hard Rock Sport GX since 1997 and rarely recall having any problems with it. Absolutely outstanding bike. Rode 50 miles on it one day with knobby tires, and high top basketball shoes. Always liked this company's products but this article was quite informative in presenting their story.
From phil villa, Camarillo, Ca. HA! i have a mid 80's stumpjumper and a rockhopper. both STILL work wonderfully..albeit with a "few" component replacements. they both sit in my garage, next to my full suspension bikes, recalling glory days. fantastic bikes, great story.
From Joseph A. Hi,
Thats great!
Im waiting for my cracked frame to get replace by Specialized as well, it'll be 1 week since I dropped it off at my LBS.
How long did you wait for your replacement from Specialized?
Thanks!
Joseph
From Andrea, England, UK I have two Specialized bikes, a Myka HT Elite which is brilliant and loves getting muddy (the British climate is very giving in that respect), and needless to say, so do I! I have some great off road rides and wouldn't entertain another. Does the job and does it well….overdelivers in a subtle and unobrustive way, but I notice, oh boy do I notice! My other is a Dolce Comp 07 for the days when I don't especially want to get muddy and simply want to grow wings, oh the sheer joy!
From herman bought my 1995 specialized crossroads cruz new here in east san jose, still have it, great bike! how about moving some of the production here to the states? we could sure use the work here in the valley, if the cost would be to high how about building a factory like in new mexico, texas, kansas – DO IT! start the new BOOM!made in california! MADE IN USA!
From Jerry, Houston, Tx This is a fascinating story that is embedded in the now almost-forgotten bicycle craze of the 1970s.
It was inspiring until the year where you said you "really didn't know what you were doing." I think you did know but didn't know you knew. You knew what you wanted and didn't want the brand to be. It's interesting that the three executives you hired, with good track records in consumer products, seemed to be actually damaging your company.
Sometimes you have to have a vision and stick to it even if it seems you're a couple of steps behind the curve. The employee booklet was a good focusing point not unlike the "vision statements" and "mission statements" companies have today.
Ever thought of moving into cars? That's how Kia got started (in bicycles).
From Anonymous I bought my first Specialized Rock Hopper five months ago and totally love it. In fact, I wish it was made here in the US. Globalization kills American jobs, period.
From Jerry Birmingham, AL I am a weekend warrior trail rider. My first specialized lasted 10 years with little to no maintenance. It probably would have lasted longer had I taken better care of it. Last summer I bought a new Specialized and like it just as much. Great bike just like the Trek I was shopping for but 150 bucks less.
From Adam B,, Jacksonville, Fl SPECIALIZED is the Target of bikes they have let there grass roots pass by them, get back to the european type's and let them run….They will always be a cheap china made bike… Atleast Trek,cannondale and some other brands still produce some bikes in the states,,,, But other then that I comend you on keeping the business going…
From siri, plano, texas I recently bought a Specialized for my 10-year-old son. This is the first Specialized that I've purchased. Needless to say he loves it. Anyway, I love this story. What an inspiration. No whining. No government help. No welfare. Just good old-fashioned hard work, suffering, and refusal to give up. Look at the result! What ever happened to America's entrepreneurial spirit?
From Winston Cooke, Lebanon, NH Specialized has become the most complete cycling company operating within the US. From the ground breaking FSR mountain bike (I know, not their design) to the fabulous S-Works road machines, they offer a complete range of bikes for all ages and riding styles. Not only that. They have the best assortment of accessories around, namely the Body Geometry series which takes into consideration the human body and designs with comfort and endurance in mind. With Specialized, it is possible to buy everything needed for almost any cycling style, from one company. Specialized indeed.
From perry leardi whitinsville ma i have one bike a specialized for the road and I love it…
I love the story of the company story
From mike, arlington, va I lOVE Specialized bikes! Own two…20 year old hard Rock and a four year old Expedition. I ride the Expedition to work five times a week regardless of the weather.
From John, Morristown, NJ I bought a Specialized Sequoia (road bike)in 2002. In April, 2007, the aluminum frame cracked at the bottom bracket. The frame had a lifetime guarantee from Specialized and my bike shop transfered everything over to a brand new frame provided by Specialized. Effectively I got a brand new bike for $150 in labor/misc parts. The fact that they stand behind their product like this – I'm a lifetime fan now!!
From Taylor Brown, Valdosta, GA I love Specialized's equipment, it's some of the nicest stuff I've ever ridden. Everything they make, from bikes to shoes, is well thought out and of quality craftsmanship.
However,what the article fails to mention is the fact that Mike Sinyard stole the design for his first mountain bike, the Stumpjumper, from Gary Fisher and Tom Ritchey, the original Marin County mountain bikers. All Sinyard did was import loads of cheaper parts from Italy and Japan. Kindof like Henry Ford, in a way. He didn't invent the thing, he just made thousands of them.
From Michael, Bend, Oregon These stories of start-up companies are always warm and fuzzy, but then you have to realize that in time, the companies become just as big an bloated as any other. Specialized is now so big, so profitable, and so dedicated to making fancy Eurofag crap, that the average consumer visits their dealers and leaves confused and shocked by the price tag. There is no difference between Huffy and Specialized at this point. All of the bikes are made in China– unless you order the Eurofag models which are made in Japan.
From Bill in Portland My first mountain bike was a Stumpjumper. It was stolen on my last day of college!! Didn't matter though, I was hooked, been riding Spec bikes ever since. Great story.
From Dave, wpb Fl Love the bikes – but please find alternative to routing derailuer cable under bb. with plastic guides. An otherwise small imperfection to some well built road and mountain bikes.
From Joe C. Pittsburgh, PA Forget the mountain bikes – many riders like the long leisurely all day ride along a smooth and level rail trail. To this end, you may want to look at Specialized and their 'Carmel' series bikes. I have last year's model and I can tell you it's a different animal. Other companies have their way of creating their 'comfort' bikes – Schwinn put different components on a mountain bike frame and Trek made a shorter frame for their Navigators. About 8 years ago, GT came out with their Streamline bikes and here was finally a real comfortable 'comfort' bike. The reason – swept back handlebars and a frame that featured a more rearward leaning seat tube that put you further back from the pedals. In other words, a hint at riding in a recumbent style position without the disadvantages – you didn't get butt burn and you could still climb hills.
Specialized Carmel outdoes GT in 2 respects. 1. The bikes come in both 26 inch and 700 sizes. 2. Spec. lowered the top tube considerably, leaving more room for a suspension seat post and more room if the male of the species has to make an emergency exit. And by the way, Spec. created this geometry by BENDING the tube that goes from the crankset to the saddle.
By the way, a more extreme bike of this type, called a 'crank-forward' bike is available from some manufacturers, including TREK.
Only complaints – I had the store replace the crankset on my 700 series with lower gears for better hill climbing on a hybrid and I trashed the Shimano rapid-fire – give me grip shift any day. And, I prefer chromoly steel bikes over aluminum – minimal weight gain and much greater strength and durability – aluminum bike frames are a fad and need to go away.
If these bikes are an example of Specialized's innovation, they have a real winner.
From Matthew Grimm I worked for Mike for a year in 1982/83 and he is an interesting combination of focus and determination.
A few years ago I took what I learned from him and started my own bicycle company and hardly a day goes by when I don't ask myself, "What would Mike do in this situation?"
From Lin Phoenix, AZ I am on my third Specialized. Started at a Hardrock Ultra which my son still rides today and then went to a Rockhopper and now ride an FSR Pro. All have been excellent bikes and I won't ride anything else!
From Carol Cernugel, Ijamsville, MD Bought a Hard Rock Cruz in the early 90s and it is still my fovorite bike. Apparently someone else felt the same way because it was stolen from my garage (several other bikes were left untouched!) I also have a Crossroads I bought in the late 90s, but my heart still belongs to my long gone Hard Rock.
From TGOB, GRETNA, NE Specialized is one of the big three American bike companies still around today. Specialized sits in second place, in terms of market share, to Trek Bicycles. From A Bike dealers perspective, Specialized has a bittersweet relationship with "US." If anyone of you is thinking of purchasing a new bike this year please be observant to the bike shops environment. Most shops selling Specialized bikes are hurting. The reason they are hurting is due to Specialized inability to control their supply chain, adhere to their warranty commitments and pursue their lifelong desire to control the market share. Small market bike shops selling Specialized are in a pinch and some may not make through this downturn.
Bike shops in smaller markets have been forced to carry products that only sell in larger markets. Recently Specialized has circulated threatening business letters, to it's "beloved" dealers, requesting that they pay them for the products they have been forced to stock and can't sell. Instead of working with the dealer they are just cutting them off completely. I have been selling Specialized, Trek, Giant, Rocky Mountain, Schwinn, GT, Etc.. for years. Two years ago, I dropped Specialized because of the issues listed above. My business and this cycling community is better off for my decision. When shopping for a bike this year be observant to the atmosphere and environment of the bike shop. You should notice a since of urgency in Specialized only stores. Buy what you need not what they have to sell to you.
From Mike Molaro, Mahwah, NJ Mike's tale of Specialized's evolution mirrored my experience with the company. In the mid 90's I was a huge specialized fan (still have a stumpjumper) but eventually moved to other brands as value/innovation lagged. One thing has be constant, though – customer service. I've had a helmet, shock, and tires replaced at no cost even though they clearly past any reasonable warrantee period. After reading this article I will definately consider an SX Trail for my next bike.
From Beth, Atlanta, Georgia I ride a Specialized Ruby and love it. Fits like a glove. I appreciate their committment to women's specific designs rather than just making a men's bike smaller. I don't think I'll ever ride anything but Specialized.
From Fred Spike, Los Angeles, CA Mike Sinyard has left a legacy of innovation, great products, and a big company, but he has destroyed people in the process. No challenge was too large for him, but nothing human ever got in his way. He has schemed and plotted his way to the top, and he does not give a **** about what happens to the people he uses and steps on, in order to succeed.
From Jerry Russell, Nixa MO. I resd your story, and I'm totally inspired! I'm not a bike person, but I commend you on your perserverance and success. Ride from Oregon to Panama on a bike? Insane! Is this true?
I have always been in awe of the BMX riders, and the extreme things they do with bikes.
Electric bikes and cars are the future. Will your company be involved?
Best of luck and success to you. An inspiration to all entrepreneurs, the backbone and basis of all past innovations that have made our country great.
Why is it that the only thing which hinders and discourages innovation is the funding? Most of us do it for the accomplishment of success, not for the money.
From David E, Canberra, Australia My wife and I have 2007 Stumpjumper Experts. AWESOME Bikes! I also have the Specialized 2D helmet, which while expensive, is worth EVERY cent, as it is by far the most aerated helmet I have ever owned.
Interestingly, this helmet, which is their top of the line model, using carbon fiber had a production problem earlier in the manufacturing life. I had a lot of trouble getting the helmet for a little over a month, and found out that was because they recalled and replaced every one in that batch (only sold in the USA, I believe). This gave me some faith in the helmet, as mistakes sometimes happen, but it is the way the company deals with those mistakes that make a difference. I have had products from other companies that have had obvious design flaws, and web sites dedicated to getting the company to recognise this and do something about it, with no success. It is refreshing to see a company that stands behind its products!
From Howard Perry, Bern, CH As someone who once owned a bike shop, this is a facinating story and one to be admired.
From Brick I still have a Specialized Stumpjumper I bought in 1983. I also have one of Gary Fisher's hand-made bikes from the same era. They are both superb bikes in every way for their time. The Stumpjumper is easily equal to Gary's hand made custom bike. That says a lot about Specialized's commitment to quality even in their first production bike. When I rode from Melbourne to Sydney, AU in 1989, I took the Stumpjumper and it performed flawlessly on a 1000k ride on some pretty rugged terrain. I will never sell either one of them. Mike sure deserves his success. ~ Brick
From Richard H. Schneider, Newcastle, OK I have a Specialized Stumpjumper that I bought in 1983 from Buchanan Bicycles in Norman, OK. I still have it and ride it regularly, as it's never had any problems and is a comfortable, durable, and dependable ride for everything from smooth pavement to rough, unimproved roads.
From Marlene B., Pinckney,MI I bought a stumpjumper back in the springtime. UNBELIEVABLE! I am up all of the hills and still have energy left after riding! No problem with quick shifting and it is so light for me to put into my escape. What a great summer it has been riding my new bike!
From Mke N I have hard rock comp I would'nt trade it for anything!!
From Mark W, Angleton TX Someone crashed into my car when I was in college and I took the insurance money straight to the bike shop to get a Specialized Allez Epic. It's a great bike I still have today. (That was in 1992.)
From jody liberty mo Where do you buy Specialized bikes in KCMO?
From Paul, Fort Wayne, IN Bought a Stumpjumper used back in 1997 for $250 and am still riding it to this day despite my laziness about upkeep and tuning. Great bike, great company.
From Poom, Bangkok, Thailand Bought the cheapest Sirrus a few years ago (couldn't afford anything more fancy) and started cycling to/from work in DC. Even though it was the cheapest of its line, it was really well made and a nice ride. Now I'm back in Bangkok, Thailand and I got the bike shipped. Looking forward to riding it to work on Bangkok roads!
From F Johnson, San Francisco Bay Area, CA I have 2 Specialized bikes (a mountain bike and a Roubaix road bike.) But my satisfaction with the firm is waivering. Their website is not very user friendly unless someone really knows bikes well. There is no easy to find way to contact them (phone number, email, whatever).
When I have a problem with a dealer (I have had many) or my bikes there is no way for me to let them know. My only recourse is (as was the case recently with a friend) to migrate to a new company.
I find it hard to relate the company I know (which apparently wants NO contact with their customers) and the company referenced by your article.
From Bob, Simsbury,Cnooecticut I am a relative newbie to cycling having started road biking last year. One Specialized Roubaix and 2500 miles later I'm hooked. Great exercise. Great bike. Highly recommended.
From Hugh Stocker Tauranga New Zealand I bought my Specialised Rock Hopper around 8 years ago. It has been a great trail bike. Currently my 84 year old father is using it to ride around the retirement village he lives in and to carry back his garden produce. But it will hit the trails again , in the handrs of my mountain biking grandsons. Thanks Mike for a great bike.
From Renee, Palm Springs California I have always liked Specialized bikes, now I love them.
My husband, an obsessed bike nutcase, has riden over 10,000 miles on his Roubaix S Works. His Volvo "team car" has fewer miles on it. I have owned a Ruby Compact Pro and I now noodle around on my very affordable Myka mountain bike with fat road tires. Cycling makes me feel like a kid, and I would like to thank Mike for sticking with his passion and sharing it with the world.
From Donna Iford Every day I usually read approximately 50% of the articles appearing in
CNN Money and this is by far the most inspiring. When reading these
articles I am left with the feeling that most of ?Corporate America? is
greedy and selfish, and that the ones running these companies only care
about their bottom line and their retirement packages.
This article left me feeling uplifted; it showed how an entrepreneurial
spirit backed by hard work, passion, determination and wit can create a
sound company with ethics.
I wish Mike Sinyard the best and look forward to reading more articles from
Maggie Overfelt.
Donna
From Aaron Courtland, Houston, TX Over the past year and a half I've become an avid bicycler. I don't have the fancy, tight, bike wear but, I do ride my bike everywhere. When I test rode the 2008 Specialized Rockhopper in October of 2007 I knew immediately that, that was MY bike and I purchased it immediately. I received compliments on it from everyone, everywhere I went and almost immediately my brand new bicycle was stolen! Thanks to the great benefits of being an American Express member, they reinburst me for the same amount and I was able to order the very same bicycle. When I go on trips, I take my bicycle with me for an extra source of tranportation. My friends and family are often surprised by my dedication to riding near and far but I think it sets a good example. Only thing is now, I've been a bit more cautious when and where I lock it up. These bikes are one hot ticket! Reading the background story makes me proud to own a Specialized Cycle of my own. It also inspires me with my growing business. Thanks for sharing!
Aaron Courtland
http://www.PossibilitiesAC.com
Digital.Media.Entertainment.
From M kampler Israel I still have my specialized expedition touring bicycle from about 1984, still rides nice
I have an Alllez from 2006 as well
From D.SCHWARTZ, MONTREAL, QC. IN THE LATE 70'S I PURCHASED "SPECIALIZED" MOUNTAIN BIKE TIRES AND "WOW" IT TURNED MY "KUAHARA" INTO QUITE A COMPETITIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE. BUT THEN BUT THEN…. IN THE EARLY 80'S PURCHASED (AND STILL OWN) A STUMPJUMPER F/S, AND RIDE REGULARLY (summer/winter). Its the best, reliable and very durable. Looks pretty too. Over the last few years, I've been approached by many people wanting to buy it out from under my butt. I'm keeping this one for life.
Many friends and aquantances have joined me on Laurentian mountain bike rides. Only those with "specialized" bikes make it out. With specialized you never have to walk home.
From Michael Kensinger, Temecula, CA Many years ago, Ned Overand came to visit a local MT bike shop in SoCal. I always admired Ned, and when he joined us for a short ride, we swapped bikes (I promised I'd never tell, but what the heck) for a bit. While I still prefer my Klein, I had to admit that Ned's Specialized was a great ride…
From J. Kelly I rode to work today on my circa 1993 Specialized Hardrock. Excellent bikes.
From David, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Bought a "Crossroads" years ago that I still own. More recently, I splurged on a much lighter "Sequoia" with a light blue matte finish. It's beautiful to look at and a real pleasure to ride.
From Suvikas, Foster City, CA and now India Great bike !
I bought a Specialized Allez 2nd-hand (or maybe 3rd or 4th hand) from a bike shop in San Jose, with the Tange (steel) frame. Since buying in 2003, I have done more than 3000 miles up to 2007, when I moved to India. It is now with me traveling the, at times bumpy, roads here.
From Jim,Austin,TX We own a Roubaix and a Ruby. They perform well and are the most comfortable rides we have had. I have 2500 miles on the Roubaix and have had no issues on quality or performance.
Thanks Specialized
From Lorenzo, Austin, TX The MBA "executive experts" ran the company almost to extinction. The American big business attitude that everything can be sold like soap and potato chips is fundamentally flawed. Unfortunately, you can't succeed in a competitive technical world without innovation and leadership, something the wonks at the MBA business schools don't seem to learn.
From John Powell, Richmond, CA In 8 years I've racked up well over 20,000 miles on an Allez Sport road bike, great quality. If the thing ever dies, I'll buy Specialized again. If you start off quality products it is easier to sell yourself.
From Ian Gregory Perth WA My 2003 Stumpy has ridden all over the globe and ended up at home in Australia. Never failed me and keeps rolling, I would never buy another brand!
From the wickster Boston, MA I have owned 3 Specialized bikes. I loved the first 2 and so did Chicago's finest crooks! I have an 10 year old Specialized Hard Rock that is still going!
From Kevin, Boulder CO With regards to the comment from "innocent wodzisz" about if there are any companies that make affordable bikes in the US. I think that the answer is, and has been for a long time, no. Bikes are really really labor intensive to make and labor is just really expensive here. There are companies that make bikes here in the US. Many companies do. But these are largely boutique manufacturers and these bikes will all come in well over $1500 (realistically more like $3000 to start). Trek and a couple other major brands build their top of the line bikes in the US (again over $2500) if you want a big name.
Maybe as the recession continues and as shipping becomes more expensive as the price of oil goes up, things will change.
From Will I might be the Specialized bike winner of all the posts so far…
3 Specialized road bikes (Allez, and 2 Roubaix)
6 Specialized MTB's
and still own and love them all!
Great bikes – thanks for years of fun!
Will in Seattle
From geoff madison nj usually more bang for the buck than competitors and sometimes truly a better product- bottom line- a solid brand- trusted in my book and I ride 5,000 miles per year
From Travis Elizabethtown, PA My wife an I both ride specialized bikes and we love them, she is only 5'2" so the new just for women's bike works great for her. Inspiring story, keep up the good work.
From William, Wichita, KS If I owned only one bike it would be my Specialized TriCross. It's a great "do-everything" bike. Four of my best road bikes roll on Specialized tires.
From Innocent wodzisz Granville, OH I have a Sirrus and it's a great bike. My only problem is the bikes are made overseas. Can anyone make anything affordable in America anymore?
From Len, Newtown, PA I have been riding my Specialized for about 10 years now. When the time will come for an upgrade, I don't think I will buy any another brand.
From Andrew Evans, Mountain View, CA I love my Specialized Roubaix Elite! Excellent quality, good value for money. Specialized are true innovators — they don't just copy other companies' stuff.
From Justin, Salt Lake City, UT Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to own a Specialized Bike but I was able to ride one last year in Lake Tahoe. It was an absolutely fabulous ride and now I am envious everytime someone passes me on a Specialized bike. As they continue to innovate with their new lines, I hope to be able to step up one day and take advantage. Keep it up.
Signed, Envious
From Phil Terpandjian, Bethesda, MD Great article and an excellent example of genuine hard work, tenacity, and perseverance. Bravo Mike; we need more people like you in the America.
From G.P. Lembo Hands down THE BEST QUALITY BIKE FOR THE MONEY.
Nice Job.
From Janus Daniels, Salt Lake City, UT "American industry lost its way when MBAs took over." So did American government. Ever think about politics? Mike?
From KJ, Port Orchard, WA Oops…I meant to Bob from Orlando (not to Sean from Topeka).
From KJ, Port Orchard, WA To Sean from Topeka…
I didn't take the comment the same as you did. They are two guys interested in biking and also have business interests. Both are competative guys. Jamis was just showing his competative side by throwing a little jab in there. I don't think that he meant any harm.
PS…I love my S-Works Stumpjumper HT.
From Bill, Charlotte, NC I love my Tarmac Elite. Great company, good thing you saved it from the MBA's that have ruined so many of America's companies.
From Daniel Bassian, San Jose Specialized is the premier large scale Mountain Bike Company. Mike Siniard Has a great Story. The company is on top of its game right now. He should write a book.
I own 2 Specialized S-Works Mtn. Bikes, they are the Bomb!
From Randolph, St. Paul, MN While I really liked this story, I was unimpressed by the lack of ethics during a number of parts of his career. I guess it sometimes takes some lying and deception to get by in the business world.
From John, Sacramento, CA The incident with the outside executives should be a warning to all businesses. Somebody who sells hammers one day, soap the next and bicycles the next is not good at anything. American industry lost its way when MBAs took over. P.S. I'm still riding my 1992 Stumpjumper.
From Sean,Topeka,KS "From Bob, Orlando, Florida
Ron Jamis wrote, “Mike, I could burn a hole in your corporate side with a few well placed shots but I have no interest in getting back into the biz. You’re safe for the time being anyway.”
What the heck kind of dirt bag injects that into his comment? Sheesh – I’m glad Jamis is out of the biz. What a whack job."
I could be wrong but I read that as good natured ribbing…especially based on the previous comment he left mentioning how he has 2 Specialized bikes of his own.
From Bob, Indianapolis, IN I ride a Specialized Stumpjumper Comp. It was my second mountain bike. It is a hardtail. It is light weight, maneuverable, has great components and is the best bike I have ever owned. I even have a Team riding outfit. I recently had a new frontend put on it and the shop was impressed with the condition of my bike. I take it every place I go on vacation and use it in all kinds of terrain. I am now thinking about buying a Specialized road bike too offset the cost of fuel in the car. All I can say about Specialized is keep doing what your doing. You rock!
From Rick, Amazing story! He has such tenacity and a fighter from the beginning. As a person who once dreamed of starting my own bike company, what a wonderful brand!
From Rick, Fayetteville, AR I grew up on Huffy and Roadmaster bikes, i finally got enough courage to buy a real bike. I've had my Specialized Hardrock for 3 years now and love it. It's the most amazing and reliable machine i've ever seen. I bought a Allez roadbike last year and it is equally good. I admire Mr. Sinyard and his company. Good work on a mission and execution. Your business model is something all small businesses should take a look at and consider. Thanks for making me like Specialzed a little more :).
From Raul S., Fontana, CA I almost bought a Specialized after doing research and ride testing different bikes. I opted for the KONA Dawg Deluxe. Kona and Specialized are the best bikes in the market right now.
From Maarten Kronenburg, the Netherlands I am from Europe (the Netherlands) and over here we're bike crazy – in our family we own 8 bikes. This story hits a chord. I'll print it for my kids as an example story on how to live one's life: passion (the bikes) and achievement. Mike, thanks for sharing your story!
From Dan Wheat Ridge, CO I own a Tarmac Pro, that bike has changed my life for the better. The most innovative thing that has come out of Specialized is the Body Geometry series of accessories. True innovation. Their shoes have made my riding life infinitely better.
From Mike, Gainesville Georgia I ride a Rockhopper A1 FS that I bought in the early 90's, and I have tried to destroy the frame but have failed for years. I really like riding the bike and to this day I still ride in on trails 2-3 times a week.
From Linda, San Jose CA My husband and I treated each other to mountain bikes from Specialized about twenty years ago, they are the best bikes we have ever owned. Comfortable to ride and stable on and off road. I remember thinking how cool it was that these great bikes were made right in Morgan Hill. Great to hear of a local success.
From Peter Cote, Somerville MA My Specialized RockHopper got me into mountainbiking. I crashed it into 3 pcs, got up (wiped off some blood) and bought a new one, and a few years later I bought an Enduro, it had some factory defects, – the company stood by their product and gave me a new frame, they took care of it. I still can't part with my first bike…yup its still in 3 purple pcs. I recommend Specialized bikes to anyone I can.
From Kelly, CA I prefer Scott bikes.
Better quality product and company has higher marketing ethical standards. Did you know that several small business owners are told that if they want to carry Specialized bikes they cannot carry Scott bikes?
From Roxy Colette, San Jose CA Specialized was one of the main brands I sold at a small Mountain Bike shop. I bought a stumpjumper and rode it in Durango Colorado for 3 years- Hard Riding never had a problem. Can't say that about other bikes I've owned.
From Erich, Tucson AZ So THAT'S it,
I just tried to replace a pair of tires on my street bike. I went back to the bike shop where I bought them: "We don't carry Specialized products anymore", they said.
I really liked the tires. They were multi-branded: "Armadillo" and "Nimbus" were some of the brands in addition to Specialized that I saw on the tires. They were really tough. They had a Kevlar band in them that shielded them from the sharp spiky things that puncture tires here on the roads of southern Arizona.
This is some business with all the brands/brand recognition. It is as much an
effort to market to the bike shop as it is to the customer.
From Richard, Glendale, CA I have a 2005 Specialized Stumjumper FSR 100. I got into mountain biking after I visited my brother and saw he had did some mountain biking in te summer. I love my Stumjumper. I've probably ridden it about 1000 hours and I have not had any major problems with it. I plan on getting a new Specialized mountain bike in about 2 years.
From Brit P Houston TX It's too bad that Specialized frames come in a container from Taiwan instead of being made by artisans in California.
From John Portland, OR A 2003 Specialized Rockhopper was my first quality bike and I still ride it daily. It did give me some problems as the wheels were built with 15G spokes which caused them to fail after a year or so as 15G spokes are a little light for a 190lb rider (should have used 14G spokes IMO). But it's a good frame and I do reccomend the brand to friends even though I went with Bianchi for my road bike (Campy components) and Rocky Mountain for my FS MTB (it was a toss up between the Spec. Enduro and the RM Slayer).
I also use specialized road shoes and own a specialized helmet, and bought a specialized saddle to replace a saddle I had worn out.
Specialized sueing Mountain Cycles over the Stumptown name left a bad taste for specialized in my mouth. Portland, OR is Stumptown and Mountain Cycles had the right to use the name.
I'm not sure about their newer mountain bikes with Specialized Branded Forks and Shocks as I haven't heard from any riders about their quality yet.
From Mike, Apopka FL Cool bikes road and MTB. I owned a pink Stumpjumber "Team Edition" in the mid 80's. Hand made, CrMo steel very springy and great bike. A piece of history for sure
From Lisa, Tampa FL Have ridden Marin and Giant but bought a Specialized Women's Specific Stumpjumper and it's been amazing. No mechanical issues so far and I ride pretty hard. I'm already looking at the Safire…and dreaming of the S-Works. Great story that continues to instill confidence in the mission and product resulting from it.
From Carrie Hofheins, Whistler, BC Great article! My 1st mountain bike was the Stumpjumper in 1984/85 and I graduated through the years with Specialized bikes and working their events in Whistler, BC. To this day I am still loyal and treasure my yellow "Cactus Cup" jersey!
From Stephen, Kansas City Mo I have owned three Specialized bikes and loved every one.
From Mat, Oakland CA Was it a Specialized branded hub?
so far i've found anything with the the big S on it to be extremely durable. sometimes the non-specialized branded components that are installed to keep the price lower on specialized bikes aren't of the same quality but that's more of a mark against the bike builder than the frame manufacturer.
From Brad, Denver, CO The first Stumpjumper I saw was at the Durango Ironhorse race. It was the original Pink one and I think John Tomac was riding it. I was blown away. That set the hook for me. I was 12 or so and spent the next 10 years riding and racing!
From Rick, Eugene Or I own a Specialized road bike and it is a fine machine. The company also makes quality cycling gloves and saddles. The prices for these items is fair but definitely not cheap.
From Daniel, Santa Clara, CA I have to say I've owned and ridden quite a few brands over the years: Italian, French, and USA (Klein, Trek, and Specialized). Of all them only three bicycles really stand out: My Klein Attitude mountain bike I still own going on 10, my old carbon/aluminum Allez I sold that fit me like a glove, and the Roubaix Expert 07 I ride today. In an age where US manufacturing has lost a lot of its innovation, leadership, and quality in many areas, bicycling is an industry where the US still stays at the head of the pack. And no small part of that position is due to Specialized.
From Todd C, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA Bought a Specialized RockHopper Comp Disc about 4 months ago. Rear hub was bad right off the rack and since have had to have it replaced twice and it still wobbles and groans and the chain snaps back and comes off while free-wheeling. So far not a fan…
From Val, Seattle Washington (via Pasadena CA) Great atory. I've been mountain biking since 1989, and although I am fond of Specialized being one of the original pioneers, the story is accurate to the core about how they ruined their image in the 90's. I admired Ned Overend and loved his bikes, but they weren't the same quality bikes that were sold to the mass market. Glad to see that they have learned their lesson and continued to keep the business going, despite what happened to icons like GT, Schwinn, Mongoose and Cannondale.
From Joseph, Denver CO Every bike I own is a Specialized. In my garage hangs two Stumpjumpers (hardtails), an Allez Elite (for my training), a Dolce Comp (for my wife's training) and an S-Works Transition (for my racing). I had an FSR PRO but sold it (I love the hardtail) and wish I hand't. So, what am I trying to say? I am loyal because Specialized is loyal to me, pays attention to my needs and, has a mission to persistantly evolve as reflected in the bikes they make and that I own.
From Rick Vosper Well done. I'worked for Mike Sinyard for almost ten years (and on three
different occasions) and that's the best, most comprehensive version of the
Specialized genesis stoyy I've ever heard…and that's including the two
page puff piece on him in Bicycle Retailer and the half-dozen bios I
wrote for him when I was in the marketing department there.
How'd you get him to spend so much time with you?
If you're interested in follow-up, I'd be glad to compare notes. I have
somewhat different versions of several of those stories..
Thanks gain– excellent piece!
–rick
From jerry kristian, saskatoon saskatchewan I bought a Specialized stumpjumper M2 FS in 1993. The craftsmanship was shoddy at best. after 20 miles my tubes blew. the joins on the rims were so poor i had to turn the rims around so the brake shoes would ride over the ridges. I had to sand down the inside of the rims my self. After informing Specialized they sent me a tire repair kit. Weak response.
Also the rear drop-outs were different sized so the back tire would twist under torque. Eventually got a new frame. Pretty sad when you buy a bike like this and you are worried if it will get you home from a ride.
hopefully they have learnt from their lessons. I do not plan to buy another specialized – I can't afford their mistakes.
From michael, Europe First of all, specialized bikes are nice.
They look good, and as far as ive been able to ride them they work good too.
The thing i admire is the brand has been able to not only be a succesfull bike manufacturer, but also design a good looking accessory line.
The thing i dont like about specialized is the way of speccing on parts. Its all specialized from tires to bars to saddle. This way you dont really see the value, or lack of it, in comparison to other brands.
I cant help to notice that alot of people respond to this article by saying howmany happy miles theyve done without problems on their specialized bike. But i dont think thats really connected to the brand. Good shimano speccing with decent maintenance results in a happy ride for years to come.
Anywayz, nice to see the biking industry made it onto the CNN.
Happy trails to all !
From Steve, Arlington, TX Between me and the ex we've bought 5 Specialized bikes. My old Expedition has a gazillion miles on it and I wouldn't trade my Hardrock Comp for anything.
From alexanderperkins Was a die-hard specialized customer(currently own 2 s-works)until I discovered how production of these bikes overseas SUX!!!I'm currently buying a turner 5spot & stoked & proud that its 100%made in the good ol'US ofA.Nuff said!
From Stephen, Boise, Idaho I bought a Stumpjumper in 1994 and have never looked back. I have put 15,000 miles on her and she still keeps on kicking.
I have graduated from steep rides on a single track to pulling a kid trailer behind me.
Great bike.
From JimHughes, Smartville, CA I bought a Stumpjumper in 1981 to stay fit while recovering from a running injury. WOW, I loved it , and I still have that YELLOW bike. After riding this bike for a couple of years, my riding buddies eventually shamed me into buying a bike with suspension, so I got a RockHopper ….what a difference!
I'm 61 now and still have both bikes. I'll never sell them. They've been part of my outdoor life, and now I'm retired in the No.CA foothills, they are 'at home'.
From Bob, Orlando, Florida Ron Jamis wrote, "Mike, I could burn a hole in your corporate side with a few well placed shots but I have no interest in getting back into the biz. You’re safe for the time being anyway."
What the heck kind of dirt bag injects that into his comment? Sheesh – I'm glad Jamis is out of the biz. What a whack job.
From Thorsten Cornils, Bergen, Germany I found the Specialized story on "Bike Europe" and there was a link to this CNN report. Mike, I want to say that this is an amazing story and it was very interesting to read the whole article. Regards from KTM-Austria
Thorsten
From JD, MN I bought my first mountain bike from a bike shop at the southloop Chicago. The store salesman pointed to me the mercedes benz of bikes, and the toyota corolla of bikes. My budget then was only for the toyota corolla of bikes. That was the specialized hardrock. That was about 2001. It is a good bike, and that introduced me to mountain biking. Years later that my income increased, I have looked at other products, and over the years still had that notion tha specialized is as common as toyota in the trails. I have read a lot of reviews about their new/old product stumpjumper. The line of bikes from $7k to $2K. I saw the complete bike S works frame and my I drooled. Now I would like that to be my next bike.
From Brad Zimmerman, Stockbridge, Georgia I have a 2006 Tarmac expert. It is my love. It rides like an extension of my body. I have a 2007 Stumpjumper FSR. It is a great bike though I prefer road rides. My Specialized shoes are he most comfortable shoes I own. To see videos of my friends and I riding go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1I635kDEOM and
From Steve Weldon, Windermere, FL I have had two Specialized Rock Hoppers. The first one came off my car rack while traveling at about 70mph. After being run over by a pick-up truck (causing two flat tires)and an 18 wheeler, we were all inpressed how well the bike stayed intact even though it was a total loss. Thus, I now have a second Rock Hopper that I love and will never trust the straps on the rack again.
From Jerry Vass, St. Augustine FL I bought the first StumpJumper I ever saw in Tellluride, Colorado. In those days, it was so rare to see others on a mountain bike, that on the Slick Rock Trail in Moab, we would stop and exchange addresses with other riders.
From El Navajo, Phoenix, AZ My very first mountain bike was a Specialized Rock Hopper. Cheap and lasted until the frame flexed in Dulce, NM. Good bike while it lasted but never owned another Specialized since. Now I have a Kona Kikapu. I love this bike, but alot has changed in
mountain biking in 1980s. At least I didn't buy a boutique bike i.e. Ellsworth. I am all about big business.
From Donald Cochran Very interesting article, maybe a CADCAM system like solidworks would help improve the product before launch of new products etc.( No I do not work for solidworks). It is nice to hear dedication still pays off.
From elisabeth osmeloski, salt lake city, utah I find it pretty telling that Ron Jamis, an excompetitor came out to share his similar story in building a business out of a sub-culture and hold up the standard of how critical true passion is when it comes to corporate america meeting consumer needs.
Maintaining relationships with your core customers (dealers incl) when you've made some serious business missteps is often a difficult thing to overcome.Getting back to the basics is what keeps many of these grassroots companies alive in the first place, but once companies discover that a core group of enthusiasts can be their best advocates, they're best positioning themselves for growth in the long run.
Attention to service, quality of product and customer satisfaction are important to consumers these days, even more so in the age of big box, cookie cutter experiences. Those are things that really resonate with consumers – as is evident in other comments.
As a marketer who understands the culture (unlike those idiots Jamis & Mike dealt with), I think that's a more compelling story to tell than finding ways to slap your name on any bit of plastic or metal you can manufacture cheaply.
As bike enthusiast who's been considering a purchase from the pricey Enduro line, i'm glad that Spec. and Mike Sinyard managed to weather the bad years and work towards rebuilding an excellent reputation, that sure makes me feel a bit better about making such a large investment.
From San Diego, CA I sold the first Specialized bikes at retail and had an internship there in 1991 while attending SDSU. Then I worked there in 1995-1997. The place keeps the passion alive inside. Mike Sinyard used to insist I made the lunch rides even when work was too busy to make sure we knew why we worked so hard. In the 10 years since I worked there, when I look back, those years at Specialized were some of the most cohesive and rewarding of my career. I learned things there that I still use today.
Around 1991, the San Jose Mercury News asked Mike Sinyard what made him think he could build such an empire from such a small beginning. He said "Nobody told me I couldn't" and that is one of my favorite quotes today.
Andrew Siminoff
AndrewSiminoff@cox.net
From Jim D I was lucky to buy a Cycle Cross XWorks bike for $1400,reduced from $2400.I put road tires on,and it is absolutley a fantastic bike,I always like to say that it deserves a better rider.I will always buy Specialized
From Ron Jamis P.S. to Mike Synard from Ron Jamis, founder Jamis Bicycles. I laughed at how similar our business experience was. I lived in a van while traveling up and down the poorer-than-California east coast selling my goodies to start-up shops who could barely keep their doors open in the 70's. I started with a few thousad bucks and the distributor that "started me" actually unloaded all of his crap on me, COD, of course. Later the fellow learned to respect me as I became his best customer. I too brought in idiots with resumes to help grow the company. What a disaster! Jerks with no concept of the cycling culture and no morals other than protect their own rear ends. I never lost money though but I never spent the bucks you did on promo and engineering. I concentrated on profits and made quite a lot before selling the Jamis trademarks. Lucky for the line, when I sold out, one of my product managers went to work like a mad man and kept the DNA intact. And don't worry, Mike, I could burn a hole in your corporate side with a few well placed shots but I have no interest in getting back into the biz. You're safe for the time being anyway. Keep riding, dude! We all have benefited from your passion. Nothing succeeds unless there's passion. Love to all, RJ
From Ron Jamis From an ex-competitor: Message to Mike Synard: Thanks for the innovation. I currently ride two of your innovations (both are high end mountain bikes) and in my humble opinion, you've got the best product (in this rank anyway) in the world. My days on the trails would be a lot less fun without your product. Signed, Ron Jamis, founder, Jamis Bicycles now living in the Columbia Gorge, Oregon.
From Jason, Sacramento, CA My aluminum Allez road frame cracked this past winter after 7 years of faithful service. After one call to the Specialized sales rep from my local bike shop, I had a new Roubaix carbon-fiber frameset en route. I was pedaling my new ride the following weekend! Thanks Mike – you keep backin' 'em, and I'll keep buyin' 'em!
From Rodney, Chico, CA I still have and ride my 1984 Specialized Stumpjumper – love that thing. It is still going strong after all these years. I have an '88 Stumpjumper too that still gets abused on off-road rides……but like the '84 SJumper, it is still going strong.
From Stephen D. Salmon I highly recommend Specialized bikes. I put my 9 year-old granddaughter on one. Her 6 year-old sister will be ready for one soon. It too will be a Specialized!
From Mark Whitmore Houston TX I started riding in March of 2006 with the purpose of keeping up with my wife (fat chance). I purchased my first road bike in August of 06 (Roubaix) and have logged over 1200 miles. I had a real hard time keeping the Mavic wheels(replaced) straight but for comfort and feel nothing beats my black and silver machine. Thank you for the great bike.
From Bjorn, Portland Oregon I just bought a new mountain bike. I didn't even look at Specialized after the debacle with them suing to prevent mountain cycles from using the local name stumptown for their CYCLOCROSS frame I wasn't interested in supporting them in any way. Portland has the largest cross scene in the US, and is known as stumptown, the name was great and in no way confusing with specialized products.
From Colin Denver, CO I have a hard time seeing the passion of a $500 million a year bike company with a cut-throat marketing and legal department.
I'll always be glad that I never got into the bicycling "business" and stuck with just riding and racing them.
Question, would Specialized try to sue me if I made my own Horst-link style rear suspension bicycle and named it a Stumptosser? Answer, I dare not find out.
From Theo, Cincinnati OH Not that I disagree, Chris – Specialized makes great bikes and Mike Sinyard has helped make cycling what it is today- but when you want to talk about business practices, I suggest doing a little research on Trek's John Burke- he's a guy who has been taking the high road in cycling advocacy for so many years now, not to mention he's kept(some of)Treks bicycle manufacturing right here in USA.
From Chris, Vista Ca I bike to work right now on a borrowed bike to save gas. I am getting ready to buy a new bike, not just for commuting, but recreational riding too. I recently test rode the Sirrus, Centrum, and Globe lines. My last 4 bikes were Treks, but my next bike is going to be Specialized. Not just for the quality of the bike, but also for Mike Sinyard's philosophy, determination, and business practices. Glad you got your bike parts back from the bike shop with a bounced check, slick.
From patrick, Hubbard, OH I hve three Specialized bikes, an 85 Stumpjumper Sportbought for my new wife to be back in 1985, an Epic I ride and race and a Robaix Pro with a bunch of miles. I've owned many bikes over the years and have sold most but still have and use all my Specialized Bikes, thanks Mike.
From J Peterman, Detroit, MI Well this story explains everything. I got into competitive road cycling as a kid in the 80's after seeing the movie "Breaking Away". I was fanatical about the sport and specialized had some cool stuff at the time. Over the years their name was put on everything and it got a really junky reputation. Then, their products started to come back and have a better name again. This story explains all. A strong moral of this business story is never invite marketing clowns from outside the industry into your company. These guys didn't have a clue about cycling and probably never felt the rush of pounding your competition in a short sprint up a hill or the total exhaustion after riding a criterium or Thursday night interval training ride in 90 degree weather. Good on Specialized for getting back to their core business. I'll look at seriously buying one of their bikes now.
From Michael, Dallas TX I love my Specialized Allez Sport, even though I don't ride it as often as I should. I am also very please with other Specialized products I own. More over, I am inspired by the owner's story. As a person who is looking to launch his own company, it makes me more proud to get on that bike knowing his never-give-up attitude. Much success in the future!
From Randy, Dayton, OH I purchased a Specialized road bike circa 2000 for approximately $1200. It was on sale so it may have been a $1500 bike or so early in the season. Good bike with decent components, but not top of the line.
The front derailleur bracket was brazed on and somehow broke after six or seven months. I returned the bike to the bike store where I originally purchased it and they sent it to Specialized. The frame was now discontinued and could not be repaired or replaced with the same.
Specialized sent a brand new M4 Works bike (with full Ultegra components), worth over $3K, to replace my middle of the line bicycle. It is one of the best customer service experiences I have had in my near 50 years. Good luck to them for the next 50.
Signed, Life Long Customer
From Shane Kula I bought a Stumpjumper Pro off of Ebay a few months ago for $500 – about 6-7 years old – I was the only one to bid on the bike. The bike has every top of the line components and rides flawlessly. I feel like I stole the bike at that price and fellow riders have commented on my bike – "where'd you get that bike?" If you know what you're looking for you can find it.
My hat's off to Specialized and Mike Sinyard – Job well done!
From Douglas, Brookings,OR I bought a StumpJumper Comp in the mid 80's; the same bike my bike-shop-guy rode. I rode it for 14 years and my nephew is still riding it!
From Jesse Ward, Colorado Springs, CO I've ridden Specialized since 1994, when I bought my first mountain bike, a Hardrock. On occasion I've considered switching brands, but always come back to 'why?' The bikes rock and though they're not manufactured in the U.S. [which kinda really sucks], I'v never been disappointed with the product.
From Doug, Boulder, CO I have never looked back since buying my S-Works MTB frame in 1994. I still ride the same frame today, although not as hard as I once did. To this day, people are amazed by how light and sturdy the bike is. The components have gone from light and aggressive to heavier and maintenance-free, but the frame is still without equal. I proudly ride this "relic" and just can't find any reason to change … although full suspension might be a bit easier on the body. I guess I'll have to take a trip to the bike shop this weekend.
From Bill B. Edmonds, WA I have three Specialized bikes, and couldn't be more satisfied with any of them.
From William Peabody, Richmond, Va I bought 2 – FSRxc-Comp Stumpjumper bikes in 2000 with the idea of using them for a bike trip to France. They worked perfectly – even with the extra loading of rear luggage. This design was made under the work of the Austrian (name is forgotten)and is almost a copy of his design but with different fork and rear shock system. At the time of purhase – suspension bikes were still going thru "development" and this one came out being one of the most copied designs. Now living in Chile – the bikes are used weekly and still with no cracking of frames. (I have become more forgiving as to the punshiment though – with age.) Evidently the problem of a cracked frame referred to in the article was for a bike of the same design but with higher end components and probably used by someone that really knew how to bike (reaad this as – "no fear")
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I stumbled onto this website while seeking out more specific information on my Specialize Hardrock mountain bike. The bike is now 16 years old (I bought it new in 1993), and it's proven to be one of the best investments I've ever made. For as many miles as it has on it, the frame remains solid and it's drive train and brakes still function flawlessly. The only components requiring replacement as expected have been tires and tubes, brake pads and cablesto wear out and replace have been tubes and tires, brake pads and cables and the added-on Trek computer. Even though the bike is now obsolete from a technology standpoint, is lasting durability definitely says something about it's quality design and manufacture.