Submitted by
willy j worm
a
from Lethbridge,Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: March 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ROCKY MOUNTAINS!
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Strengths:
Geometry,climbing abilities, components (shocks etc.),terrain versatility, color/green... RMB SERVICE IS UNSURPASSED IT'S ALL GOOD; I have no desire for a new bike.
Weaknesses:
pedals(minor). That's it.The plastic bushing on the rear fox shock was squeaky, phoned RMB in BC, he knew what I was talking about, sent me free metal bushings ASAP, no charge...again, minor.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing like it, but maybe another RMB.
Bike Setup:
All stock but Azonic riser bars.
Bottom Line:
TEST OF TIME. This bike has proven itself brilliantly on all terrains for 3 years. SERVICE. Rocky Mountain is what makes for proud Canadians through amazing service and craftmanship...they are made in BC, they know what a MTB should do and not do. For amazing trail or downhill in the praries or the mountains this bike is all I need and more. It was reasonably priced for all levels of riders. I will not need to upgrade to a new "Rocky" for another while...Sorry RMB, this was your only mistake...too darn good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Puzman
a Cross Country Rider
from Wallingford, CT Date Reviewed: June 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
it's all good
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
minimal bob while pedaling decent parts spec neutral, predictable geometry
Weaknesses:
not all that plush, front or rear
Similar Products Used:
Titus LocoMoto. Have rented Sugar, Fuel, FSR, etc.
Bottom Line:
Rented this for 2 days in Fruita. Has a very firm feel while pedaling, but not all that plush compared to my Loco (which admittedly has more travel). Decent parts spec, but nothing stellar. The fork is precise and low maintenance, but I think the bike could benefit from 100mm travel (which the 2002 has). A good choice if you want a FS bike that rides like a hardtail, but not the best choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Leonard
a Weekend Warrior
from Paradise, Newfoundland, Canada Date Reviewed: September 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Haven't found it yet
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Earle Industries Ltd
Strengths:
Definitely the frame, shock and fork
Weaknesses:
This is the original Element Race and there were some problems with the bottom bracket pivot backing out. The dealer in conjunction with RM straightened it out perfectly.
Similar Products Used:
First and still only full suspension
Bike Setup:
xt, x-ray shifters, dx pedals, profile fiber rs riser bar, trans x stem -120 mm, mavic rims
Bottom Line:
First of all may I send my heart felt sympathy to the families and friends of all the victims of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. God (or whomever you pray too) bless them all.
This has become my annual review of Rocky (or Mr. R as I refer to him now) -can I corectly say annual? Is there a minimum number of years before you can use "annual"?... Anyways - after hibernating for the winter (the worst we've ever had, broke the old snowfall record) I woke Mr. R up. Well actually he was ready long befor the trails were fit to ride. He had my shed practially tore up with his pacing back and forth for months and almost escaped out the door befor I got a hold of him. After calming him down I loaded him into the back of our (wife's and mine) CRV and off to the bike shop for his annual (there's that word again) checkup we went. The only thing he required was a change of fork oil. A NOTE HERE... ever since I've owned Mr. R I haven't been fully sadisified with the rebound of the front fork. This year the young fellow at the shop dismantled, cleaned and replaced the 7.5 wt oil with 5.0 wt. What a difference, it was like having a new shock. I should have done it years ago. I'm into my 5'th month of riding this year (3-5 times a week) and have yet to replace anything. It's been and exceptionally dry summer and except for an occasional wash and regular lubing, general check of the nuts and bolts - the usual. Mr. R hasn't cost me a cent. (After 2 sets of Shimano V-Brake pads in one year I switched to Koolstop, they last twice as long, never squeal, are cleaner and work better in the wet. I suspect the newer versions of the bike are possibly a little smoother - if that's possible. If I were to buy another bike it would be without question another Rockey Mountain, most likely an Instinct - although there a lot of choices from RM these days. But that's all moot as Mr. R is alive and well. Keep the rubber on the rocks and don't spill your beans....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Leonard
a Weekend Warrior
from Paradise, Newfoundland, Canada Date Reviewed: September 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Haven't found it yet
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Earle Industries Ltd
Strengths:
Definitely the frame, shock and fork
Weaknesses:
This is the original Element Race and there were some problems with the bottom bracket pivot backing out. The dealer in conjunction with RM straightened it out perfectly.
Similar Products Used:
First and still only full suspension
Bike Setup:
xt, x-ray shifters, dx pedals, profile fiber rs riser bar, trans x stem -120 mm, mavic rims
Bottom Line:
First of all may I send my heart felt sympathy to the families and friends of all the victims of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. God (or whomever you pray too) bless them all.
This has become my annual review of Rocky (or Mr. R as I refer to him now) -can I corectly say annual? Is there a minimum number of years before you can use "annual"?... Anyways - after hibernating for the winter (the worst we've ever had, broke the old snowfall record) I woke Mr. R up. Well actually he was ready long befor the trails were fit to ride. He had my shed practially tore up with his pacing back and forth for months and almost escaped out the door befor I got a hold of him. After calming him down I loaded him into the back of our (wife's and mine) CRV and off to the bike shop for his annual (there's that word again) checkup we went. The only thing he required was a change of fork oil. A NOTE HERE... ever since I've owned Mr. R I haven't been fully sadisified with the rebound of the front fork. This year the young fellow at the shop dismantled, cleaned and replaced the 7.5 wt oil with 5.0 wt. What a difference, it was like having a new shock. I should have done it years ago. I'm into my 5'th month of riding this year (3-5 times a week) and have yet to replace anything. It's been and exceptionally dry summer and except for an occasional wash and regular lubing, general check of the nuts and bolts - the usual. Mr. R hasn't cost me a cent. (After 2 sets of Shimano V-Brake pads in one year I switched to Koolstop, they last twice as long, never squeal, are cleaner and work better in the wet. I suspect the newer versions of the bike are possibly a little smoother - if that's possible. If I were to buy another bike it would be without question another Rockey Mountain, most likely an Instinct - although there a lot of choices from RM these days. But that's all moot as Mr. R is alive and well. Keep the rubber on the rocks and don't spill your beans....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bart
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, Or Date Reviewed: June 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Paulina Peak
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Collins Cycles
Strengths:
Excellent handling and balance. Very stout pony.
Weaknesses:
Plastic bushings squeek and wear out. Plan on replacing all the bushings at the beginning of each season for $35 and you'll be a happy camper. Low quality pedals.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Specailized
Bike Setup:
Race face 1" riser bars, Ritchy Ti pedals, Flight saddle
Bottom Line:
This is the best handling bike I have ever ridden...it handles like a good quarter horse. It's not as light as the Specailized FSR XC that I almost bought, but it is much stiffer and doesn't flex and "ghost shift" under pedaling force like the Specialized. The front and rear suspension are evenly balanced and work great on the slow steep climbs and fast down hills. This sucker is comfortable and reliable on long extended weekend rides, yet fast enough for racing. I highly recommend this quality product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maya Kakinyoas
a Cross Country Rider
from Villa Indios Bar, NEWARK Date Reviewed: May 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Chimney Rock & Ferry Street
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Back of a van
Strengths:
Beautiful hydro green color nice welds decent starter fork - Z3 lite LX/XT drivetrain
Weaknesses:
weak stock components (RM mix - stem, seatpost, seat, H-bar) constant squeaking from rear shock mount rear pivots backing out
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockcrapper Old Ass BALANCE FS (Lead) Tracer
Bike Setup:
00 XVERT, RaceFace, LX/XT
Bottom Line:
It's a pretty good buy for the money (1500). Only complaints I have so far are: - loose pivot screw backed out, eventually lost (RM replaced free!) - squeaky rear shock bushings (RM replaced bushings free!) - weak looking stock components (seatpost/stem/headset/bar/seat/etc...)
Once I upgraded to raceface and the XVert, no complaints at all. I love riding this thing, better than riding your girl. Sure there are way better bikes out there on the trail, but I feel good knowing that I saved an extra 2-3Gs in my pocket! More money for Villa's finest - shout out to NEWARK!! Haaayy!
If you do pick up an element race, make sure you get the newer model w/ the raceface cranks/component mix. And check out speedgoat, last time I saw, they had these things on sale for like 900 or something!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Armondo Galaviz
a Weekend Warrior
from Shelton, WA USA Date Reviewed: April 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
greenline #6
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The frame is light, but scary light. The design of the suspension keeps the tire planted on the trail when climbing with minimum bobbing. The weld quality looks good, people still can do somethings well... Customer Service--I have been explictly pleased with my contact with the company and their people. I'm unsure of the stock components, so I'll not speak of them.
Weaknesses:
Yep, it's true the bottom pivot bolt will work its way out. Have the hole reamed to the proper tolerance and all is fine. Yes it should have been perfect from the factory blah blah blah. Even Hondas have glitches...
Bike Setup:
Race Face Prodigy Cranks, XT bottom bracket, Deore shifters, XT rear, LX front, syncros post, Easton bars, hayes hydros, Formula/Mavic dish wheels.
Bottom Line:
This bike has proven to be a great trail bike. It climbs, desends, and tracks with ease. It isn't a free rider, RM makes bikes for that purpose. It's a cross-country/ trail riding, have fun bike. I am pleased. The only thing I would warn of is the bottom pivot bolt, make sure things are right before you leave on a ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from LI NY Date Reviewed: April 18, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Bike Junkie - Bethpage LI
Strengths:
Climbs great, great suspension, tracks great. Great components.
Weaknesses:
None....period.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale, Trek, Specialized...you name it.
Bike Setup:
Element Ltd Edition, Marzocchi Atom 80, Easton Carbon Riser, Race Face SYStem, Hayes Hydraulics, Bontrager Race Wheels, Thompson Elite Post, Titec Berserkr Saddle, Micheline Wildgripper Comp Tires
Bottom Line:
This bike is great up here in the Northeast. So far after one year I have not had any problems. I had Hayes Hydros installed for the muddy and wet conditions and a riser bar for the comfort and width. This bike has a much more solid feel over all the other xc dual suspension bikes I've ridden (either demo's or friends). The bike has an incredible ride and always turns heads with its Ltd Edition paint scheme. If you are looking for a dual suspension bike and are trading up from a hardtail then look no farther.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chef
a Cross Country Rider
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: February 26, 2001
Main pivot bolt used to back out on both sides; shock mount bolts spec'ed with weak steel bolts, rather than hardened steel. Also, you cannot use a rear disc brake, or you'll crack the seatstay. Lastly - price. Ouch.
Similar Products Used:
None. I borrowed my friend's Element Race, and liked it so much I wanted one for myself. Since then, I have yet to find a bike that fits me as well.
Bike Setup:
'99 Element T.O. frame; Stratos Helix Expert shock; '00 Manitou SX-R fork (80mm - the longest travel recommended for this frame); XT UN72 BB; RaceFace Turbine LP cranks w/'99 RF small and middle rings; Black Spire Ring God (trials bash-ring); SRAM Powerchain; SRAM 9.0 rear derailleur and shifters; XT front derailleur; '99 Magura H33 rear rim brake; '00 Magura Louise front disc brake; Rear wheel: Chris King Classic hub w/Bontrager Mustang Ceramic rim, DT Competition spokes; Front wheel: SRAM 9.0sl disc-compatible hub w/Mavic F519 rim; Sun/Ringle Zu-Zu pedals; Chris King NoThreadset; Dimension stem (cheap but effective); Bontrager Crowbar Comp (9 degree sweep); ODI Yeti Lockjaw grips; Primo bar-caps; RaceFace XY Lay-back seatpost; Bontrager Race saddle; Salsa skewers/QR; XT 8-spd cassette.
Bottom Line:
As an FYI - I bought the frame and shock only ($1500); otherwise, it's @ $3600.
I've ridden this bike on East Coast technical singletrack, on Squamish (Vancouver, BC) nastiness, in the Arizona desert, and mild downhill at Bromont, Quebec. It climbs wonderfully - possibly one of the best-climbing bikes I've had the opportunity to ride - and is sure-footed on descents. The cockpit is short enough that you can maneuver the bike around, yet long enough that you don't feel cramped.
I'm a heavy rider, and tend to abuse my equipment. I've cracked the drive-side dropout (manufacturer's defect - the hanger hole was drilled too deep), and snapped the shock mount bolt. That's it - and both of those recently. I also have had problems with the main pivot bolt working loose (as others have said, often miles from the trailhead). I used to carry a crank-remover tool, just to be able to fix it. Loc-tite didn't work, either.
In both cases (dropout and pivot), RM came through. It turns out that many of the '99 Elements were drilled with the tolerances too tight; this made the bearing inside the main pivot bind, and force the bolts out when the suspension activated. A quick trip to the LBS, a 45 minute wait, and the problem was fixed - under warranty. I haven't had a problem since. With the dropout; I happened to be headed up to Squamish at the time, and would be staying with a friend in Vancouver. My friend got in touch with RM, explained the problem, and ended up picking up a new chainstay piece that day. A 15 minute fix, and it was done. Both times, RM didn't hedge, or hem and haw - they got me the parts and advice I needed as fast as possible, with no cost to myself. These guys have a customer for life.
This bike is not designed for DH; it is an XC race bike. I take it riding Urban, but I don't drop anything over 4 feet with it. If you're looking for a DH bike, look elsewhere. If you're looking for a great XC bike, on which you can race, cruise, and ride the occasional drop or mild DH, I can't recommend this bike enough.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Wilson
a Cross Country Rider
from Ramstein Germany Date Reviewed: February 22, 2001
When downhilling a small amount of pedal induced feed back snaps the chain against the hub.
Similar Products Used:
DBR V 1.1, Santa Cruz superlight
Bike Setup:
Sid XC 80mm, Magura Discs, Race face cranks, Syncros post, Easton Monker light, SRAM Plasma shifters, Hugi 240 disc w/ 317's, king hdst, 747's, xt/xtr deraillers, and some other stuff
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. It's not as light as my dad's superlight but it has been reliable and fun to ride. It teaches you to pedal good circles and spin the right gear. If you can't do those things don't buy this bike. Climbing traction is superb. Dropoffs, stairs and baby heads are no problem. I have never had some of the problems with the pivots loosening like some of the other reviews. It's not as stiff as my old cannondale in the rear but stiffer than my wifes DBR Zetec comp. It a great all around bike if you can only have one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RM Rider
a
from East Bay San Fran Date Reviewed: February 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Pauley Creek-Downieville
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Cove Bikes
Strengths:
This is my one-year review. I love this bike. The Frame handles great, stock components work well, it's just perfect for me. I have made few necessary upgrades (those caused by wear and tear), and it has performed very well.
Weaknesses:
Only a few complaints: The bearing next to the crank came loose, ruined a ride, but I fixed it with some loctite. That kinda pissed me off, but that's pretty much my only beef with this bike. I have replaced all the rocky components, which worked well, but after a lot of riding the bar was visibly bent.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler, nicer but way more expensive
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for: Marzocchi z2 Atom 80, which I installed after a bikerack-garage door interaction. The Z3 light was nice, but the Z2 is the best fork for trailriders Race Face Riser Race Face SYStem Titec Ti Seatpost
Bottom Line:
For the money, this bike is awesome. But the new Elements, (OO,O1) look even better. Great for beginner-intermediates who want a nice frame that they can keep, but upgradeable components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob S
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC ,Canada Date Reviewed: January 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Upper Oilcan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
When it was working this bike was nice and agile in cross country single-track. Nimble and confident on fire-road style downhills. Liked the bomber light fork.
Weaknesses:
Weak pivot bearing that unscrews itself mid-ride requiring on-trail dis-assembly of front chain-rings to access tightening point.
Flex of rear triangle can pull rear-derailuer cable housing out and ruin shifting.
OEM front fork attachement points will not fit any common front disc adapters.
easy-taco rims
easy-crush seat rails
Similar Products Used:
None - came off 8 year old Brodie Catalyst with a classic Mag 20 shock
Bike Setup:
shortened stem for light DH use. DH seat (replacement)
Bottom Line:
I can't count the number of time that I have had to stop and repair this bike for a world of faults while on the trail. This bike has helped me to develop my vocabulary of abusive language. To be fair it was bought used from a friend. That friend, however, is not hard on his bikes and did not subject this bike to unreasonable abuse. Probably a fine machine for cross-country use. No darn good for North Shore riding. My mistake. Looking to replace it.
Now that the rear cluster, freewheel, seat, lower pivot, chain, cables, stem and front wheel have been been replaced, its for sale. First $1000 CDN takes it with my apologies in advance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daryl
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, AB Date Reviewed: January 25, 2001
Bottom pivot bolt kept backing out, but this was easily fixed with some LocTight.
Similar Products Used:
After 12 years of riding MTB's, this is my first full susp. bike.
Bike Setup:
Azonic stem, syncros post, Mavic F519 rims w/XT hubs, Z3 flylight 100 fork, RaceFace bar, headset and cranks.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line, this is a great bike. If there are any other hard tail hold out's out there, this is the bike to try. There is not too much suspension bob and it climbs great. Just stay in the saddle and fly through anything. This is not a long-travel downhill bike for doing 8' drop-off's, so if that's what you're into, look at something else. I highly recommend this bike to anyone who enjoys all around mountain biking (including climbing and the occasional 3'to 4' drop-off). Go get one. Now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jenny Unevermind
a Weekend Warrior
from Van Anda BC Canada Date Reviewed: December 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Texada Island Baby!!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Cove Bikeshop
Strengths:
Everything, this sucker rocks!!!!!!
Weaknesses:
Stickers don't have any clear coating over them.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra (one hell of a bike, do ya wanna buy it?)
Bike Setup:
Stock except for crowbar, mosh peddals, THE fender, serfas rock ass saddle, swabble tires, and serfas grips.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks BIG TIME! I LOVE this bike. I haven't had any problem climbing up hills, she just purrrrs all the way up! My bike cruises downhills. I have not had any problems with this bike so far. It has held out for one year without problems. I bought the blue bike, but it also came in green this year. The blue looks much better than the green, but ROCKYS always look good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mihajlo Serbman
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver BC Date Reviewed: October 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
UBC endowment lands
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Deep Cove Doughnuts
Strengths:
green green green, unreal paint job, feels like riding a 2-wheeled sofa, small children run after it yelling how cool the bike is, quite light for the $, especially forgiving for boneheaded mistakes of rider, superstrong bike (takes a lot of pounding and falling down). Climbs unbelievably well, but the light frame tends to wheelie the front end....must compensate a bit. Fun bike.
Weaknesses:
pedals, well, they suck; too small unless you are a small asian girl. Frame could be bigger, mine is a 20.5", and I still have to max out the seatpost often...especially when riding on road (to get to the trail 'cuz my car is dead)...should really have a 21.5" at least for those riders over 6 2"...stock tires should be replaced immediately (GEAX Blades or Michelin Hot S), creaky crank, seat a pain, and why don't they inClude a shock pump (or at least a certificate). Oh yeah and the 1999 air vanilla float leaks air often...need to be pumped up before each ride...probably rings need to be replaced :(
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, cannondale, GT, RM blizzard and hammer.
Bike Setup:
Icon stem, rockshock riser, shimano 636 DX pedals, Geax blades, tiny green bell, specialized geometry seat, eagle brake pads, heavy duty springs for bomber front shocks.
Bottom Line:
The element race is worth the money, probably best value in the lineup. The bike rules on cross country trails, and is a decent dh bike (nothing too crazy though like 15 ft drop offs). Apart from my whining (see weaknesses above), greeny is a great ride and benefits exponentially from small upgrades and personaliztion. Like giving it a name, maybe "Harry Chiix" or "Bixente Lizarazu". The 1999 model is a better buy in my opinion that the 2000, and is well worth seeking out in any clearance deals at bike shops.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Bonin
a Cross Country Rider
from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Date Reviewed: October 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ingolf
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Olympia Henderson
Strengths:
No bob when pedalling in or out of the saddle, solid parts spec, great fork.
Weaknesses:
Weight, short travel (3 in rear, 2.5 front)
Similar Products Used:
Klein Mantra, Fisher Sugar
Bike Setup:
Flite Saddle, ESP 9.0 sl drive train, O degree XC wheels with XTR hubs.
Bottom Line:
Probably the best full suspension bike for the money. Came with full LX and good in-house parts. Marzocchi forks rule but keep the weight of this bike up around 28 lbs (a little porky for racing). The rear suspension characteristics are comparible to a Sugar (imho) only two years sooner!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Salmon
a Cross Country Rider
from Alameda,CA/USA Date Reviewed: September 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Tamarancho/Slick Rock
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Mikes Bikes/Berkley
Strengths:
suspension/cool-GREEN color/super strong can be riddin anywhere
Weaknesses:
Rims/Headset?/Brakes/squeeky
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Raceface-seatpost/stem/crank/riser/ CK Headset/Rhino Lite Rims(Lite..?)
Bottom Line:
I ride everywhere and have droped off some large "I think I bent something" structures in SF but My Rocky Mountain is as true as the day I took her home. The up grades were a must,the rims were weak and a there was a mismatch between the brakes and rims and it was only resolved with the rim up grades(The down side Rhino Lites are heavy). Chris King super smooth/anything Race Face Gotta love um. Great trail bike/good Climber/great decender/only thing bad is bb bolt on crank side kept backing out,Fixed with lock tight and some down time. Bottom line I don't even look at another bike.(except the RM Reaper) This is great bike for anyone who's looking for a solid ride but not to weight conscience.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Downhiller
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: July 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything north shore
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame geometry, strength and quality
Weaknesses:
Pivot bolts near the bb
Bike Setup:
Stock execpt for hayes brakes and downhill tires
Bottom Line:
Easily the best all round bike on the market. the bike gas held up welleven though i beat the crap out of it. The bike has probably only seen the road for about 15k out of hundreds. This is a great bike for climbing And decending it also jumps well but with the limited travel heights are limited to about 5-6 feet. If you like long epic rides this is the bike for you. Two friends own them and they both love them as well. This is type of bike you can take to any trail and do well on any type of terrain, built obsticales or steep rocky decents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin S
a Cross Country Rider
from Venice, CA USA Date Reviewed: June 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
the ones pointing down
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Strong, light and stiff frame, killer geometry. Each year they just make them better without raising the price (much). Durable bushings if you treat 'em right. THEY SHIP WITH A BOMBER.
Weaknesses:
Some of the components were a bit weak on my 98, but no big deal given the frame quality and overall cost.
Similar Products Used:
Ridden a lot of bikes, but this is only the second one I've owned. My first was a hardtail, and so was my first bike.
Bike Setup:
'98 frame, '99 Atom Bomb fork, Alps 5R shock (not blown yet), 8 speed XT shifters/levers with 12-32 XTR ti cassette, Azonic PDW riser bar, 120x5 stem, WTB saddle, Fire XC Pro treads, Mavic hoops.
Bottom Line:
Same frame as the 1999 Element Race, Instinct, and Spice, functionally identical to the T.O. Y2K bikes had a suspension tweak so I'm sure they're even better.
Two years and I still like it better than most everything I've ridden. It does everything well and nothing badly. Climbs well, descends well, and flies straight and true. The bushings are still tight and the front triangle's finish looks pretty good, but the anodized rear is pretty scratched up. These bikes hold up, but:
They aren't indestructible. I bent the front triangle in a crash, along with a Bomber Z2 BAM and a Mavic front wheel. Not the bikes fault, I messed up and stacked HARD. BTW, the warranty says 80mm max travel fork and there's probably a good reason for that, since I bent mine with a 75.
TIP: The manual says to lube the bushings and not to use WD40, but one of their race techs told me exactly the opposite. After every wet ride or washing I squirt some WD40 on the pivots and never, ever oil them. 2 years, no squeaks or slop so it's the right way to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from East Bay Date Reviewed: May 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Big Trees
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
This is my follow up review. I have had this bike for 6 months, and i love it. Only problems: Left pod broke, sending it into shimano for refund, crank creeks constantly(no matter what i do), Overall, Its the best bike for everything. Canada is Great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Leonard
a Cross Country Rider
from Paradise, Newfoundland, Canada Date Reviewed: May 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ladies walk up!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Frame, Shock, Fork
Weaknesses:
Weight
Similar Products Used:
Went from rigid to front suspension to full (this bike in two years) only FS I have owned.
Bike Setup:
Full XT except X-Rays. Profile fiber RS riser bar. Trans-X 120mm stem. DX pedals. Selle San Marco saddle. Richy seat post.
Bottom Line:
I have the older bike with the Coil over shock and Z3 fork. This will be the 3rd full year that the Rocky has let me keep him. I must confess I have done the Bike Shop - What's New - Boy, Don't They Look Great -Like to Have a New One - Thing every year. But I have't strayed. When I get back on Mr. Trusty and hit the trails I think I must have been crazy to even consider another bike. It,s a do everything - never complain - give me more - we're not going home already -look there's another hill bike. I love it. I ride almost every day in the spring to fall. Mostly rocky, root strewn singletrack. Typical Newfoundland, "we don't need no stinking groomed trails here". I swear an hour on our trails equals five on the road. Mr. R grins at the begining of the ride, sings along the way and purrs at the end. Feed him a little grease and some brake pads, bath him now and then - he'll be happy - you'll be happy. p.s. don't forget a toy now and then, maybe some lighter parts - you decide. Keep a eye on the pivot screws next to the BB, they have a tendency to back off. The one on the left side is easy enought to tighten but the right side one is behind the rings. To tighten it on the trail - remove all but one of the granny (small ring bolts) and let the ring swivel out of the way. You can then get an allen key through the spaces in the other two rings and tighten it. Replace the granny ring bolts. Your done in 5 mins. Never turn you nose up a people on cheap bikes. Remember when you were a kid and the bike you had and how you rode it all the time. Do you ride that much now? They do. Give them the respect the deserve.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob James
a Cross Country Rider
from Guelph, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: May 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hilton Falls
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Strength, stiffness, and of course, CANADIAN!!!
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy in stock form, lower grade components compared to similarly priced Treks.
Bontrager Race bars, Kore Lite stem, Bontrager Race Light post, Scorpion seat, SRAM 9.0SL shifters, rear derailer, and levers, RaceFace BB, Speedplay Frog pedals, Airbomb hubs, Sun Sub IV rims, double-butted spokes, XT skewers, Avid brakes.
Bottom Line:
Its da Bomb! This bike makes me look good! Excellent climber, eats rocky sections for breakfast and sucks up the terra firma on descents. No problems yet with all the spills and chills (including a beautiful cartwheeling dismount on a railway track that left only cosmetic damage). With all the part swapping da Element is down to 25.5lbs. Still way too fat, porky, next year I'll feed you a carbon and titanium diet for a 24 lb Rocky full suspension and become KING OF DA MOUNTAIN.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian Hart
a Weekend Warrior
from Quesnel, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: April 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
An terrific bike with a nice weight and excellent parts for the price.
Weaknesses:
Only the squeak in the rear suspension, but I got that fixed.Fox sent me a new bushing and now the bike purrs like a kitten. I did manage to slightly bend the fork after going off a jump, which is odd considering I only weigh 130 pounds
Similar Products Used:
1998 Gary Fisher equivalent
Bike Setup:
stock plus shimano's freeride pedals and a race face riser bar
Bottom Line:
This bike is the show. Way, Way nicer than my dad's full suspension Gary Fisher. It doesn't bob, but it still soaks up the bumps, and it climbs like a cat. I've ridden this bike in cross country races, and on the summer slopes of the ski hill. This bike seems like it can do anything. Well, it looks like us Canadians are the best after all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dynoben
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: April 9, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great frame, looksn (green) and performance. Rides really well. Smooth climbing.
Weaknesses:
Pedals, saddle, squeak, painful to carry.
Similar Products Used:
Only full rigid
Bike Setup:
Diatek front and rear disks.
Bottom Line:
I was going to buy a Marin Rift Zone but they didn't have my size so bought this on the spur of the moment (had the money, had to spend it). Not dissapointed at all. No need to worry about swerving round rocks on your favourite single track, just ride over the damn things, you don't even need to get out the saddle. I wanted disks and couldn't afford hydraulic so got Diatek, meant changing my Bombers. Not a big fan of those brakes as yet. I found the pedals far to loose even when tightened right up and often popped out of them while jumping so lost some confidence. I've put some of those shimano red downhill pedals on and they are sweet as. I'm looking for a good excuse to change the seat. Headset comes loose a bit, one of the bolts in the bottom suspension pivot almost came out and that annoying squeak needs sorting, I've also munted up the bottom bracket but I always do that to stock BB's. But I bought the bike mainly for the great frame and intend to upgrade as I break things so soon enough it will be a five star legend.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
No pedal induced bobbing like many other dual suspension bikes. Mazrocchi forks are the best around. Tracks great. Climbs like a hardtail.
Weaknesses:
About few pounds heavier than many of the other dual suspension bikes on the market in this price range.
The bike definitely has all of the climbing and tracking benefits of a hardtail and the suspension benefits of a dualie. This bike is an excellent bike for the cross country rider who is looking to trade up from a hardtail to a dual suspension. The only gripe I have is the overall weight of the bike, but once you are on the trails the weight does not seem to matter. All in all this is a great bike with great stock components that you do not get on most off the shelf bikes (especially a Mazrocchi fork).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Orinda, USA Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
China Camp
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
VALUE. Easton Aluminum frame, Zokes front, Air Vanilla rear, Wheelset is awesome, the bike is obscenely light! I embarass my friend with his aluminum hardtail in climbing, sprinting, and how much i bought it for (1100)
Weaknesses:
None to speak of, grips sucked, but the rocky stem, bar, and seatpost are surprisingly light.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar 3, K2 Razorback
Bike Setup:
Coda Bar, Icon Stem, Ritchey Clipless Pedals, Yeti Hard-Core grips
Bottom Line:
you cannot get a better bike for the money. Period. Climbs better than my hardtail. My Element is essentially stock, yet it performs great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maniac
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix,AZ. Date Reviewed: February 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Western Express
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great fitting frame very well designed, very nice no bob rear suspension. Great colors, top quality paint. The zokes Z2-x-fly is the sweetest fork so light and very functional.
Weaknesses:
None yet but I've upgraded the bike right off the floor so I can't speak for stock bikes out there.
Similar Products Used:
Fisher Montare, Pro flex 856
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi z2 x flys, Cris king H.S., easton ct2 monkey lite risers, Race face B.B. XT derailleurs, XT cassette, grip shift plasma 9, XT brake Levers paired with Sram 9 calipers, Race Face XY seat post, Serfa Ti. rail saddle. Continental Kevlar bead tires. the rest is stock HA HA HA (rims and cranks, pedals)
Bottom Line:
This set up Was costly But I have it better than the instinct for less money. Very good steering feel point and shoot and your there. The balance front to rear is also very good. I dont have any complaints as of yet. I would recommend this bike (stock) to all riders. The set up I recommend to more aggressive riders,it Will shred or keep up with all bikes costing 1000 more ie. the marin mount vision pro and many more depending on the rider of course.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Captain Chronic
a Downhiller
from Nanaimo, West B.C. Date Reviewed: February 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The infamous "Daggaba"
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Definetly not the headtube as I found out the harsh way.With a lighter spring the rear suspension works very plush.Great for beginner freerider.Lightweight suspension design.
Weaknesses:
Great bike but to weak, I broke the headtube off and a bolt broke on the linkage plates and bent one of them.
Similar Products Used:
haven't tried to many cross-country bikes
Bike Setup:
Crowbar,gt piston stem,mammoth wheelset,z1-drop-offs-4",SDG bel-air saddle,flat pedals-the way to go
Bottom Line:
Sweet bike-for some.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TJ
a Downhiller
from Havertown, PA, USA Date Reviewed: January 28, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
this bike is awesome! it conquers mountains as if they were nothing. the bomber fork is awesome and is great for the rocky terrains.
Weaknesses:
I haven't had much luck with shimano, so my gear tend to jam from time to time. the stems also gets loose evry once in a while. the frame suspension could be alittle better, but im not compaining.
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher-sugar3
Bike Setup:
bomber z-3 fork race face turbine cranks xt components fox vanilla frame suspension avid 2.0 brakes
Bottom Line:
the bike kicks mjor butt. i would recomend this bike to anyone. though the components can be a pain, they can easily be changed. this bike works well on jumps as well as trails. its a great downhill bike, if your willing to spend a little cash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Serhan
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: January 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Pinkstarfish
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great suspension design, quality craftmanship, very well built bike
Weaknesses:
Nothing major, main pivot bearing sometimes squeaks ,still not convinced shimano mega 9 is all that great.
Awesome all around bike. The way I have it set up now, works great for the scary single track decents that I enjoy so much on the North Shore, and I have no problem cranking up these steep slopes.Change a few componets and it would be back to a great cross country bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Weekend Warrior
from Sherbrooke,Quebec Date Reviewed: December 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bromont
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
well built light for the durability great suspension desing
Weaknesses:
need some upgrade
Similar Products Used:
Specialized M? Kona Cannondale Sv900
Bike Setup:
ESP 9.0 sl full Race Face setup
Bottom Line:
Great bike after 3 months nothing to say. I had problem with squeeky pivot,but i solve it with Pedro Dry chain lube.I put the lube after every ride (regularly 2 hour in deep mud) and i have no more problem with pivot.Except this the bike is well suited for real trail ridin,good rear suspension .
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason
a Cross-Country Rider
from helena, mt Date Reviewed: December 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
my backyard(helena)
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
All, 2000 element race!(red)yeah baby!!!!
Weaknesses:
none so far!
Similar Products Used:
schwinn S30 ventana
Bike Setup:
hell bent titec bars wtb sst.k butt holder michlens wild gripper(light) fox float R
Bottom Line:
WOW!!! what an exciting bike, RM has out done themselves, I was just recently turned on to these bikes by my local shop(big sky cyclery and fitness) and am glad they did! They are totally unconcious when it comes to down hill control, they climb like a out of control scud missle! I took the bike right off the shelf, ran up the mountain behind my house and presto! 100% satisfaction! I recently looked at last year reviews and notice that they listen! RM that is. All the upgrades are well placed from the 2000 z3bombers to the float R, and the raceface cranks to the mavic217's. I could go on but wont. To all that are remotely interested in LIFE, GO BUY A ROCKY!!!!!, even if you got to sell the house.....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Pueblo, CO Date Reviewed: November 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The best FS bike for the money, excellent factory support
Weaknesses:
A few pivot problems initially
Similar Products Used:
FSR XC, Heckler, Mantra
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I had problems with the main pivot at the bottom bracket backing out repetitively when I bought the bike. Rocky's warranty dept was outstanding and finally had my dealer ream out the pivot hole which cured the problem. Since then the bike has performed flawlessly and I like it more every time I ride it. Great bike, great company - I'd recommend this bike to anyone.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Malcolm
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: October 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Entire Northshore!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
versatility handling climbing quality
Weaknesses:
conponents
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Santa Cruz Heckler GT eye drive Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Race Face - riser bars, stem, HS, cranks Syncros - seat post Shimano - 545
Bottom Line:
I have the 98 Element Race with the coil rear fox which i have absolutely no complaints about even with the added weight. THIS IS A GREAT BIKE FOR THE $$$. To anyone thinking about purchasing this bike, thinking about what kind of riding your going to do. Negotiate up grades before you buy. Especially the expensive one's (cranks, HS, bars, stem)! This is a great bike out of the box, but is an even better, bomb proof bike with a few up grades. One full year on the Northshore with no major complaints.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Mesa, AZ Date Reviewed: October 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
They're all good
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Climbs well Handling Suspension design Cool green color
Weaknesses:
Ineffective brakes Pedals Cheap seat A tad heavy
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Cannondale, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the following: Avid 25 brakes ESP 9.0SL XTR/Mustang wheel set from old bike 535 pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike is nice. Not too much travel in the rear, but enough to soak up the rocky trails here in AZ. I've ridden faster on the local trails with this bike than on my old Trek 7000. I no longer have to pick a line around objects on the trail, I just ride over them and the suspension soaks it all up. Decent component selection and easily upgraded when they wear out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin Daris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Plush ride for xc-bike Frame finish price/quality ratio Good steering capability
Weaknesses:
Flexy wheels Don't like lx 9 speed Lateral flex
Similar Products Used:
Devinci Banzai (URT) Trek Y bike (URT) FSR
Bike Setup:
Z3 Light, Kore lite stem, ritchey bar, Xt-V's, ritchey Clipless.
Bottom Line:
This is an honest bike. I also own a GT Avalanche LE so I can live with a little pogo'ing! When I want performance I ride my hardtail, no flex just raw power. I use my element to help preserve my back from pain and it does that job very well. Handling is great and it also take-off very well. I found that CR-18 wheels were very flexy and breaking performance was very weak so I'll switch to mavic X517 SUP wich I like very much. I aslo swap to XT V-brakes and levers. The original stem isn't very stiff so came the kore... The bike is honest at climbing but I had to pump the fox to 225+ (I weight 170 lbs) and I feel like this Fox isn't damped enought. Think of this bike as a good all around bike but not race worthy. It's too heavy in it's original set-up to race it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ferday
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary,Alberta Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Go Canada
Similar Products Used:
too many
Bike Setup:
stock,different pedals,saddle.
Bottom Line:
Now the bike has endured a summer of torture and despite some minor tech problems it is more than I dreamed! The bottom rear triangle bushings were really poorly designed and require constant loc-tite, but as far as riding, there aint nothing better for cross country. Some would call it heavy, but their spandex is too tight (26 lbs heavy?). Climbs like a demon and descends like an angel, all in sweet lime green.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lance
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta Date Reviewed: September 3, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Powderface
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Plush suspension, but still a stiff ride on uphills. Responsive and tight.
Weaknesses:
The Ritchey pedals cannot be set for easier release
Bike Setup:
Stock components, but replaced pedals with Shimano 747s
Bottom Line:
Love this bike. It can handle everything I've put it through. Looks and feels great! Great geometry! This bike is going to convert me to a fanatic!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Clark
a Cross-Country Rider
from Canton, MI Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
poto
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good strong stiff bike color is cool (got the green one)
Weaknesses:
Rear shocked squeaked
Bike Setup:
marazzochi z1 raceface cranks, bb, stem, bar, SRAM 9.0sl, Hope Pro Disc Brakes
Bottom Line:
Great bike, I speced it out myself. It's heavy but I can still make it up the hills so who cares. To all you guys with squeaking shocks. Its the plastic bushing in the rear pivot of the shock it's self. Lube will only solve it for a short time. To get rid of it all toghter you have to call Fox. They will send you a brass bushing and new Al Reducers. Pop the old bushing out and press in the new one with a vise. Make sure everything is lubed up and the squeak is gone.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hazz
a Cross-Country Rider
from BC Date Reviewed: August 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
It was squeaking really bad, dealer couldnt get rid of it and when they pulled the rear triangle off, the weld was 2 inches out of wack so it was sent back. I had it for 2 weeks, waited 3 weeks for the new one, and they didnt even give me an Element frame back because there sold out of them, so i got a crapy frame that I dont want. Im disgusted that a company like Rocky would let something go like this. I think its safe to say I will never go with Rocky again!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alec Fredericks
a Weekend Warrior
from Sunnyvale, CA Date Reviewed: August 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Awesome climbing ability and very stable downhill. I'm a beginning biker and still have chicken legs, but even so, the climbs are really smooth and easy (while my legs hold out). It's so stable downhill that I've gotten a little more gutsy than my ability but have yet to endo on this one -- I endoed twice in a row on two different trails on a crappy, no-suspension Trek).
Weaknesses:
Squeaky rear shock, but lubing it got rid of the squeak. Also a bit squeaky at the joints but lube took care of that, too. Gears make a strange clicking noise in two or three middle gears.
Similar Products Used:
Trek something-or-other. No suspension.
Bike Setup:
Stock '99 setup.
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome. I learned mountain biking on a no-suspension piece of crap and thought that I'd have to live with it. Now that I have the Element Race, I know how sweet it is...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric K. Martinusen
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: August 23, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Bomb Proof, Climbs well, Desends well, Corners well and Feels comfortable at speed.
Weaknesses:
The rider, the bike performs better than me!
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn S, Specialized FSR, Klein Mantra
Bike Setup:
Element Frame, Manitou FS Ti 80mm fork, Fox Vanilla coil over shock,ESP 9.0sl,Bontrager Mustangs (ASYM rear) w/ XTR hubs, XTR V-brakes w/ Kooka Racha levers, Kooka post, Race Face bottom bracket, and Speedplay Frogs.
Bottom Line:
Spent a few bucks on some lighter yet equally strong components and have the bike at just under 24 lbs. The bike is more than any trail can handle, light, nimble, balanced and fast. Highly recomend this B.C. frame.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: August 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
endowment lands
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Weaknesses:
The factory put the top bearing in upside down in the headset, unless I want to drive up to LA for a new one, I have to buy a whole new headset, see above for my other gripes
Bottom Line:
Time for a new review... Coming from Vancouver to San Diego has totally transformed this bike's character! In the tight confines of the endowment lands the element was a capable bike, but down here on the fast trails in the mountains of San Diego this thing has become a rocket!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent Dombrowski
a Weekend Warrior
from Hillsboro, OR Date Reviewed: August 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great frame.
Weaknesses:
Junk bottom bracket. Weak headset.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F-500
Bike Setup:
ESP 9.0sl 8 speed. Race Face Taper Lock BB. Stupid squek in the rear shock.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. I'm climbing and descending more stuff then I did on my hard tail. I also don't feel like I've been kicked in the rear-end repeatedly after every ride. The bottom bracket seized up on my after a month. I don't think the headset is going to last much longer. I think I've gotten 4 dry rides in on this thing. Everything else is handling the wet stuff no problem. The rear shock squeaks on me and I can't get it to stop for the life of me. I'm pinning that problem on Fox. I ended up buying this bike because it felt the most like a hard tail on test rides. I'm not going back. Despite the minor component problems, this is a great bike and I recommend anyone seeking a cross country full suspension rig to seriously check this one out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cory Uyede
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver ,B.C Date Reviewed: August 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anything and everything
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
components (for price) Unsurpassed framework Great look
Weaknesses:
little heavy(26.9lbs) for the weight savers
Similar Products Used:
GTXCR-2000(pogo's badly) Schwinn-s30 (crap)
Bike Setup:
race face crank, stem and seatpost.(all in white)LOOKS HOT WITH THE BLUE/WHITE COLOR COMBO YOU BUT IT WITH
Bottom Line:
This bike is an above average performer. With it's high chamber/link/swingarm design, it both climbs and decends with equal ease. The frame finish and welding spots are unbeatible by any company and the warranty system is great. I bought mine in the blue frame/white z-3's and white stays. With the raceface parts on it,(in white)the bike looks truly awesome. I'd give more than 5 for this canadian flyer if i could.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kary
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: August 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Monarch Crest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great Climbing Bike Excellent Stability at Higher Speeds
Weaknesses:
A little on the heavy side
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y GT XCR-1000 I Drive Titus Racer X
Bike Setup:
Atom Bomb Z-2 XTR Rapid Rise Rear XTR Shifter, XT Cogs XT Front Der
Bottom Line:
This bike handles and climbs great. The weight is not as published and Rocky Mt admits to it. Stock the bike is over 28 lbs. I managed to get mine down to 27 and with a new wheelset can get it down to 26. The pivot sqeek from the shock is due to the plastic vs metal bushings. RM recommends replacing the rear with metal and lubing the front with axle grease or slick honey. As for the rest of the pivots keep them clean with a light grease and they work fine. Rapid Rise is a poor choice and the 9 speed has been difficult to keep in tune ! The shop I used in Denver SUCKS..init (STF). They can't tune a bike and had cable routings set up like a $300 bike. The guys at Canyon Cycles in Kittredge Colorado were excellent at setting me straight !!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Flower Mound, TX Date Reviewed: July 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Highland, Pontiac MI
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Handling Light for FS Climbs like a tractor Simple=Reliable
Weaknesses:
Z3 works great but is too heavy
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Mantra Trek Y
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla (coil over) King hubs, race face cranks & rings, Dean Ti seatpost
Bottom Line:
I Love this bike. Mine is a 98, but is the same as the 99 less the air shock. It will take me as fast as I can make it go and feels like it could go twice as fast. It accelerates up hills when you hit the powerband. Handles great in the tight technical stuff and flies down hills. In a word, it feels comfortable. If you tune the suspension for your weight and little bio pacing, it is firm, but will soak up the big hits when you need it to. After almost two years nothing has broken but I'm starting to replace worn parts. The Race face rings had some chain problems that I fixed with a homemade plastic tie anti-chain device. Fork seals blew after three months but were a bad batch from Marzochi. Rear shock started squeaking, a little grease on the shaft fixed it. Recommend getting a lighter fork than the Z3 when you buy the bike. The bike weight on mine is down to around 26lbs now with some lighter components. This bike flies and is low maintenance, you can't go wrong with it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Westwood
a Weekend Warrior
from Dudley, West Midlands, UK Date Reviewed: July 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
The Wrekin, Shropshire
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light, Agile, Plush, Green, Looks like a real bike.
Weaknesses:
Suspension squeaks from new (Greased all pivots), Stickers
Similar Products Used:
Giant Atx 990 Santa Cruz Heckler Univega Ram Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Rock Shock Judy SL forks XTR 8 speed gears Hope Pro Hydraulic Disks Race Face parts Tioga Factory XC tyres
Bottom Line:
Has transformed my riding after moving from a hardtail. Climbs like a hardtail but with improved traction and is vastly quicker downhill. The frame and paint are of the highest quality but the stickers scratch too easy for an off road cycle.Overall, expensive but well worth it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Berten De Canne
a Cross-Country Rider
from Antwerpen, Belgium Date Reviewed: July 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Dalco, Garda Lake, Italy
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Geometry, climbing and color
Weaknesses:
Decalls come off quickly
Similar Products Used:
Back in '92 a ProFlex
Bike Setup:
'98 Manitou SX Ti Magura hydraulic brakes SRAM ESP 9.0 SL RaceFace stem and seatpost Sycncros handlebar
Bottom Line:
This bike climbs like a rigid bike but gives you the comfort in downhills of a full susp. bike.Poison Green >> awesome color too!!!!!!!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan J. McRae
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: June 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wayne's World
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Awesome price for a North American handbuilt aluminum frame. Climbs like a hardtail. Not too plush on the flats. Excellent frame geometry for me (6ft, 190 lbs)
Weaknesses:
Aside from the normal break-in period woes (stretched cables, backed out bolts), nothing.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Joshua Trek Y Specialized FSR Kona Mokomoko / Manomano Santa Cruz Heckler
Bike Setup:
Modified from stock: Race Face cranks and chain rings, XT rear derailer, Bontrager Ti handlebar
Bottom Line:
Ride this bike once and you'll never go back to hardtail. Rocky Mountain has come up with one of the only full suspension bikes out there to truly deserve the cross-country designation. The Gary Fisher Joshua was like a pogo stick, the Trek Y's were poor climbers, and I just didn't fit the geometry of the FSR. The Kona's were close, but the Rocky offered much more bang for the buck. If you've been waiting to make the switch to full suspension, you've just run out of excuses.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danny
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: June 18, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
It makes a precise turn and follows the line you set for it. I've found it very durable; I'm nearly 200 lbs. and the wheels are still in true and nothing has yet broken.
Weaknesses:
The bike makes a very annoying squeaking noise when I hit any sort of big bump. One of the linkage screws was not put in right at the factory and came undone several times during early rides. I eventually put Lock-Tight on it to solve the problem.
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden a variety of hardtail and full-suspension bikes, including ones from GT, Gary Fisher, Scott and Specialized.
Bottom Line:
Certainly, the bike is more geared to cross country than downhill-type riding. Other full-suspension cross-country bikes are more plush. But it tracks turns very well, is rugged and looks fantastic (especially the lime green version).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Racer
from Woodstock CT Date Reviewed: May 31, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
This bike is light for a fs. Very responsive. Suspension works awsome.
Weaknesses:
Could be lighter with finer component mix.
Similar Products Used:
Proflex
Bike Setup:
Stock with 150 psi out back
Bottom Line:
awesome. Nice overall bike. Looking forward to race it. Nice frame with easton Elite. If you are consideering converting form a hardtail to fs this is the bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Schindel
a Cross-Country Rider
from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico Date Reviewed: May 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
endowment lands at UBC, Vancouver, B.C.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame is as strong as any other Rocky Mountain has ever put out, in other words... perfect. Very nicely balanced front and rear suspension, they work well to let you forget about all the crap you're riding over and just enjoy the ride. I find the suspension very easy to adjust on the fly so I can firm things up pedalling to the trail and then loosen everything up for the gnarlier secitons.
Weaknesses:
Wheels are about the worst I've ever seen on a bike for this amount of money, they both were knocked out of round very quickly and not on what I would consider a very harsh trail. I've had some problems with the real derailleur shifting properly and the chain has stuck a couple of times between the largest cog in the rear and the spokes. The seat isn't the most comfortable either.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Stratus, I'd still be riding it if someone hadn't stolen it!
Bike Setup:
Stock setup all the way around... I think I'm the only person in the lower mainland not riding with a riser bar!
Bottom Line:
With some better components this bike will be a keeper for a few years, even with the problems I've experienced I don't know of a better buy for the money.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Warren
a Cross-Country Rider
from Barwick, Ontario Date Reviewed: May 19, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Build quality Component selection Geometry (feel)
Weaknesses:
No pump shock Michelin tires
Bike Setup:
Stock, 150 psi in rear shock.
Bottom Line:
This is the best feeling bike I've ever ridden. It lets me ride stuff I would have walked before. Good weight for the price, too. There's no pedal-bob when seated. It likes rocky descents and tight singletrack. Overall, a great bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grommit
a Cross-Country Rider
from Surrey, UK Date Reviewed: May 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
build quality, components, weight, fast fireroad or technical descending.
Weaknesses:
rear wheel lifts on hard pedalling, front suspension underdamped for out of the saddle climbs, silly short flat bars
Similar Products Used:
Marin Rift Zone, SC Heckler X
Bike Setup:
Fox Float at 125psi
Bottom Line:
the combination of soft front and stiff rear suspension felt odd at first, the tendency for the rear wheel to lift on hard pedalling was a minor disadvantage. Reacts well to big hits. Definitely worth a test ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Maybee
a Cross-Country Rider
from Salmon Arm, B.C. CAN Date Reviewed: May 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
I have been wanting to get back into a full suspension bike for a long time, and this lime green machine gave me the excuse I was loking for. It rips singletrack, it climbs technical stuff, and decends like a skydiver with no chute. The nine speed equipment works awsome, I love the range of gearing, especially that 22/32 low combo! The Fox shock is amazingly active for an air shock, but not toooooo active. In all seriousness, I have never felt more comfortable on a bike as I have with the Element. It inspires confidence. It may not be the newest coolest design, but it work, plain and simple. The only time it feels a little quirky is on stand-up sprints, but its so good everywhere else, it just doesn,t matter!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ferday
a Cross-Country Rider
from Calgary,AB Date Reviewed: May 2, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Weaknesses:
Doesnt come with pump
Bottom Line:
The only bad thing about this bike in the first 100 kms was the rear shock losing air and the way too expensive pump not coming with the bike. Traded a 99 Hammer Race in when the money came. (love those summer jobs) and f/s is worth the cost!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Weekend Warrior
from Nor Cal Date Reviewed: April 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Climbing, decending, jumping, trials. The reason i really like my bike is becuase its not mushy! It's responsive as hell.
Weaknesses:
I wish the Vanilla float had adjustments. I think I'm going to get a coil over. Anyone wanna trade?
Similar Products Used:
specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Its a 99 frame, 98 Z1's all XT and raceface, 99 0 degree XC wheels.
Bottom Line:
I ride really hard on my bike. BMX stlye jumping, trials, down hill, XC, urban assualt, anything and everything. Ive ate alot of shit and the bike has held up well. I like it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: April 14, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
I need any owners of the Element Race to do me a favor. I was not interested in purchasing a Race but through word of mouth I was directed to a lbs and they showed me the bike. After some reviews here as well as a good article in the May MBA mag I'm some what interested. I admit I'm a newbie in the Mountain Bike scene and I'm enjoying my Trek 6500 but I want a FS machine and even though I've tested the Trek VRX 300 I need some more info on the Race. Please help me out. Thanks! From what I've read...5 stars
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike the Strike
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix AZ Date Reviewed: April 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
250 mile update. Two good crashes and one endo, but no serious damage except shredded the saddle. Good thing I did - replaced with a decent one! Bike is tough and very responsive.
Weaknesses:
Front tire skittish on loose sand and gravel - (ok in soft going)Stock saddle needs throwing away
Similar Products Used:
Trek GT Specialized Cannondale
Bike Setup:
Stock except for moderate riser bar and shorter stem
Bottom Line:
Still happy!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a cross-country rider
from Missoula, MT Date Reviewed: March 10, 1999
Bottom Line:
I haven't gotten my bike, but damn am I excited! The reviews so far make me jones for summer. Missoula Bike Works (great shop!) have a 16.5 frame. Too small for me. But its still the bike! Rocky has to make more which I don't mind at all. I like the feeling of a small company. And the quality speaks for itself. They hand-build the wheels at the shop. Not machine built. Which explains why the review on Sun CR 18 rims are mostly negative. There coming from Cannondale. Not that I dislike Cannondale. But the overall quality in the bike speaks for itself. The wheelbuilder even personally signs each wheel! Quality once again! Msla. Bike Works even barrowed copies they have collected of reviews of the bike out of various mags to me too read. That shows their confidence in the quality of the bike. Damn, I can't wait!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike the Strike
a
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 27, 1999
Bottom Line:
After riding and reviewing around a dozen full-suspension bikes in the $1,500 price class, I bought a 1999 Rocky Mountain Element Race (in the cool green) as I was impressed by the design and construction. My first impressions after only around 25 miles on moderate dirt and single track reinforce my decision. I found with other bikes too much pogoing or squirrely flexing. I should add I am a 200 pound 6-footer. The rear suspension is excellent - handles almost like a hardtail, especially with a few extra PSI in the Fox Vanilla. It's not as plush as some, but I prefer the improved handling. The front fork is fine after upgrading to heavier springs. I added a moderate riser bar and upgraded to an XT derailleur, and it weighs in at 28.9 pounds. Mixed feelings about the saddle (not quite fitting my anatomy) and tires (the agressive tread is fine in dirt, but tends to walk a bit on hillside traverses). Will update later.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a cross-country rider
from Nor Cal Date Reviewed: January 5, 1999
Bottom Line:
Alright. I've only had my element for about a week, but I know how frustrating it can be to want to find more info on a bike and not be able to find it. So I thought I'd share my first 40 mile impression. I've been lusting after the element race for about a year now and I finally bought my dream frame. Its an all XT bike with '97 Rock Shox Judy XC Long Travel forks. I'm going to get some Marozzochi Z3 long travels as soon as i can affod them. To put it plainly, THIS BIKE ROCKS!! It's super spry, not all mushy like other f/s bikes, if you know what I mean. The bike just feels fast and manuverable, like a sportscar. Before this bike I had a Specialized FSR and the Element is sooo much better. Its not quite as plush, but in a good way. Its NOT all bouncy, like you're riding a pogo stick. I think some of this has to do with the rear shock. The Fox Air Vanilla Float doesn't seem to bob like a coil shock. It took about 30 miles for it to break in, though it probably will break in some more. The more i ride it the more i like it. The Air Float combines the good qualities of a coil shock with the good qualities of an air shock. And its about a half pound lighter than a coil shock. I recomend letting the air out and pulling the shock a part and lubing the seals inside it makes for a smoother ride. And your suppose to do it anyways. When i first rode the bike it squeeked annoyingly, but this was easly remideed by lubing the black synthetic bushings on the shock, where the spacers fit into the shock. Useing slick honey, of course. Its been quiet ever sense. Its a great singletrack bike and it corners a hell of a lot better than my old FSR. I'm more of a cross counrty/freeride guy and this is the perfect bike. Not too bouncy, and not too stiff. I'm sure i can take all the abuse i can throw at it. The Element Race climbs like a champ and goes down hill smooth and fast.I can really sprint out of the saddle too. On the pavement it acts almost like a hardtail. The suspension moves when i want it to. It jumps very well also. All in all, one awesome bike. Just don't get the blue and white frame, I want to be the only kid on the block. Way to go Rocky Mountain!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a cross-country rider
from Richmond, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: January 1, 1999
Bottom Line:
I purchased a 99 Element Race from my local dealer in December and have just completed my first 100 kilometers on my favorite trails. This bike has completely changed the character of these trails. All the nasty bumps have disappeared with the excellent suspension combination and it seems that it is much faster over rough stretches than on my Kona aluminum hardtail. The steering control is much improved as well with the Marzocchi fork. This is the first dual suspension bike and first Rocky Mountain I have owned and I must say that the Element Race has changed biking for me. It makes every ride seem like it is shorter and smoother. This year Rocky Mountain is building smaller batches on its production runs of the various models. Apparently the Element will be available in both the blue/white combination and the lime green/black european colour scheme. I chose the green as it is a very different look and the paint is supposed to very hard and durable. The fork is a MarZocchi Z3 Light and the rear shock is a Fox Vanilla Float. Shifting is Shimano LX front and rear including excellent Rapid-Fire shifters. Avid 2.0 brakes are great but will require a pad upgrade but the grips are a really good ergonomic design in conjunction with the shifters. The wheels are Sun CR18's with neat black anodized finish and include DT spokes with eyelets. They weigh very little and seem to stand up to test so far although its early yet. The tires are Michelin Wild Gripper Lite S and are well suited to the whole package as they are super light and are great on loose dirt and hard pack. Ashphalt is definitely not the strong area of these tires and they squirm and howl to let you know it. Overall I am very pleased with this bike and look forward to many enjoyable, comfortable rides in the future. Hopefully I can update this review once I have some more distance on it and can further evaluate the reliability of the various components.
Overall Rating:
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