2023 Rocky Mountain

Element C Frameset

Fast pedaling despite long wheelbase

Beautiful seated climbing ergonomics

Stable at high speeds on rough terrain

Balanced and competent suspension

Classy build and easy to live with

Versatile as a light duty trail bike

Stock tires lack traction, require upgrade

Long wheelbase feels lazy in tight corners

Front tire push in blown-out corners (stock tires)

Suspension limited for big jumps or burly chunk

Not suitable for downhill park

Well-engineered Ride-4 flip chip offers perceptible shifts to dial in the geometry (and fit) to your liking

Massive frame triangle space is great for a big frame bag or two bottles and doesn’t sacrifice dropper post space

The bike handles and descends well beyond its XC category

XT build isn’t overly expensive (compared to other bikes in this class)

Ridiculously lightweight for a bike of this caliber

Rides really well when loaded with a minimal bikepacking kit

The Element is kind of a clumsy climber, even when Ride-4 chip is in the neutral position, but it gets better in the steep position

It also doesn’t feel as fast as one would expect on rolling terrain or while climbing

Build kit has a few poorly picked components, including one-piston brakes, a handlebar that’s too narrow, and an odd front tire

Press Fit bottom bracket began creaking after a couple hundred miles of use; it came and went depending on temperature

Low weight gives an efficient feel

Suspension and geometry make it very capable for its travel

Expensive

Front end feels harsh compared to the rear