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Submitted by
jas
a Cross Country Rider
from Scottsdale, AZ, USA
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | I have had this bike since 1998 and I have had no desire at all to replace it. This bike just feels right and thats the only way I can explain it, it just works. It X-Countrys like a rigid bike. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Proflex 857 | | Bike Setup: | XTR, Raceface, Chris King, Mavic | | Bottom Line: | You'll have to pry this bike from my cold dead hands. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross Country Rider
from SF Bay Area
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Rollye Whiskerson | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | 1800 | | Strengths: | Here I am, 8 yrs later, still using the bike to push my limits and have my fun. By now only two thins are still orginal stock: the front triangle, and the rear LX V-brake. Fork, wheels, suspension shock, drivetrain have all been evolved once or more than once. Still the basic personality of the bike remains.
Climbing: lightweight, No bobbing if you're seated and have even cadence. Weaves through singletrack crisply. | | Weaknesses: | My biggest beef if rear suspension lockout with hard braking. | | Bike Setup: | 1997 Element Race (black/yellow), NUKE PROOF ATOM BOMB hubs (no trouble at all), ceramic mavic rims,Manitou Black Elite 80-100, Cane Creek AD-10 rear shock, AVID 50 rim brake, new rear triangle from Rocky (bushings wore out), SRAM twisters, XT deraiileurs, 8-speed. | | Bottom Line: | Tough, tough, tough! Awesome light (depending on component specs) sled for XC and light All-Mountain rides. Newer suspension on some bikes performs better on downhill braking and in the pedal bob department, but those are only minor changes when you put them into perspective on the whole ride. I've been able to hang with or surpass riders on much newer, techier bikes; so the new technology probably only adds 5-10% to your overall riding experience. If you can get a good deal on a Rocky, GO FOR IT. Then just get out and RIDE, and don't look back. This is one excellent rig.
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne H
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, Oregon, USA
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Tarbelle | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | fat tire farm | | Strengths: | the whole bike | | Weaknesses: | My only wish is that ALL the pivots were sealed cartridge bearings. | | Similar Products Used: | nothing else compares, dont waste your time | | Bike Setup: | Been upgrading the bike over the years....
4 inch travel 2003 Marzocchi MX pro, Race face turbine LP cranks, 2002 fox float rl rear shock, Avid speed dial levers W/ XTR vee brakes, Cris King front hub, w/ Mavic x517 front wheel. Real bottom bracket, white industrys rear hub w/ mavic D521 rim (I'm a little rough on rims) WTB velociraptor tires, FSA orbit xl2 headset, XT der front and rear w/ gripshift plasma shifters. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike brand new in 1996. My biggest delima this year (2003) was weither to buy a new frame or upgrade my front shock. I upgraded the shock. The bike still rides strong. the smoothest bike ever made. My only gripe is that they didnt put rear disk mounts on the frame, and the pivots are all bushings. (but hey... that was 1996) I have replaced all the bushings only once, the bottom bracket bushing twice, and purchased another set for the future. All bushings will eventually wear out, but I relube all of then every 3 (winter) to 6 (summer) months and the frame is still tight like new. The bike handles big jumps and drop offs well, and the toughest DH trails, although I prob wouldnt take it to the North Shore. I'm just saying it holds up to alot of abuse for an XC bike. I dont go easy on it just because it is a true XC bike. The bike climbs so well, I never use the rear lockout. I could go on for hours how great this bike is. If I had to buy a new bike today, i would get the same bike, I just cant wear this one out to justify the new purchase. if you get a chance to buy a used Rocky element do not pass it up, just be shure to order a complete bushing kit for it. If you specifically ride XC and want a fast, light, strong, quick handling, responsive, indestructable bike, this one is for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Hood
a Cross Country Rider
from Goiose Creek, SC, USA
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | various | | Strengths: | Overall suspension design has held up over time, very light, unique on the trail, durable. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Z2 Bomber, Race Face cranks, seatpost, stem, bars, Chris King headset, SRAM, XTR, Mavic, Mythos, Serfas ARC. | | Bottom Line: | I own a 1998 model Element T.O. I purchased this bike quite some time ago when full-suspension bikes were a bit more rare than they are today. During this time I have done quite a bit of riding (3-4 times weekly and weekend trips), and have to say the Rocky has served me well. While it is true that full-suspension bikes have come down in price, I don-t see that any revelations have happened in design. For the money the lightness of the Rocky frames coupled with the durability makes them a real bargain. Early on I had an issue with the bolts backing out where the chainstays attach behind the bottom bracket. Every interaction I've had with contacting Rocky Mountain for support has been timely and a positive experience. I'm sure this would make a great race bike, but admittedly my riding has been recreational. The suspension adjustments make a huge difference in ride characteristics, especially in the mountains. When you first get the bike it pays to tinker quite a bit in the beginning with the settings. Having taken quite some time to finally post a review, I have to say the bike is everything and more than I expected. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Muddy Mudguts
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, ON
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | any!! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | used off some guy who lived in his van | | Weaknesses: | damn ugly colour. that blue on the rear triangle has to go. | | Bike Setup: | http://www.CanadianCycle.com/rocky/ | | Bottom Line: | Not a bad ride, handles like a charm. you'd never know that it was a f/s. no bob at all.. no bounce. just glides over small bumps, logs etc. etc. I'm not too keen on the colour but it can always be painted I guess. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jonathan stackhouse
a Downhiller
from mission,BC,Canada
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | bear mt down hill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | from my brother | | Strengths: | the rear suspension is definatly the strength of this bike
I have been off 6.5-7 footers and the rear is just fine it feels like it has a good 1-2 more inches in the back then it actualy does | | Weaknesses: | the only weakness that could pose a problem is that the head tube welds could be a bit weak for the more nutty riders but it hasnt been a problem for me yet so i would have to say that the bike hase no weakness | | Similar Products Used: | trek y 3, giant warp,gti drive | | Bike Setup: | club roost dh bars,short high stem,marzocchi z1 drop off,alexrims dx32 downhill,avid mechanical disc brake,avid 20's in the back,surface downhill tire,irc cujo,thats it | | Bottom Line: | this bike is good for anyone if you like the xc riding keep
it stock and go nuts or put some longer travel forks on some
fat rims and tires and some dh bars and go race downhill with you friends on their rm9's either way you go this is a great bike and rides super smoooth and thats the bottom line. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bert van den Hil
a Cross Country Rider
from Sliedrecht, The Netherlands
Date Reviewed: March 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Courchevel, French | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | See my description right under this one | | Weaknesses: | The way of cable guiding to the rear derailleur, the chance for gost-shifting is to big. | | Bike Setup: | This is the reason for my second description on this page, I have replaced all the components except the frame and the headset, it was a kind of freerider. But the way I set it up this time it's more like a crosscountry racer.
Here it comes ; a syncros headset, a carbonfibre raceface flatbar, a pace stem, a pace rc 36 evoII suspensionfork, x-lite alto proseries bar-ends, tune hubs with sapim CX-Ray spokes and mavic X-517 rims, tune titanium bottombracket, tune crankset>big foot design, giro fizik flowers sattle, speedplay pedals>the frog, maxxis minotaur 380 tires with flyweight tubes, tune AC 16/17 QR, tune seatpost. | | Bottom Line: | With all these new components the bike is a lot faster then it used to be.
It weighs less then 24 lbs! Maybe you don't think that's very special, allright. But this weight is realized with a coil over shock rear suspension and an suspension fork which also work with a coil. When I use a sid I will have less performance. But it cost me now 1.4 lbs. unfortunately but performance is more important then weight.
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bert
a Cross-Country Rider
from The Netherlands
Date Reviewed: October 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Courchevel,French | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Where do I have to start? This bike is just a dream! Everything is alright, its plushy its efficient despite the coil-over-schock its still very light and just beautiful! The fully active design give you advantages in the downhill and a more consistent ride. Even the bearings are an advantage in my opinion, just because there are much lighter than other kind of bearings on similar bikes. Yes, I know, you can´t guarantee them for a lifetime but when you take care of them so now and then and clean them regularly they will not let you down.
The bike is very good on bumpy tracks and even excellent on climbs. | | Weaknesses: |
I´m still looking for them.... | | Similar Products Used: |
Cannondale SuperV, Trek VRX, Cycle Craft CSX05. | | Bike Setup: |
Its an ´98 model that I have bought as frame and build it up with a Syncros headset a Roox stem Syncros handlebar(the downhill version) a RS Judy XL(Yes I know its forbidden by the manufacturer) a Roox seatpost a Flite gel sattel, Magura Bartman brakes, XTR transmission, Rond wheels( cultproducts from Holland, you should look for them when you are on holiday in Europe some time), IRC mythos tire´s, and 747 pedals. | | Bottom Line: | A highly recommendable bike! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
L. Myers
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Great all around XC bike | | Weaknesses: |
No replaceable derrailleur hanger | | Similar Products Used: |
Performance M-205, Cannondael SuperV 1000 | | Bike Setup: |
98 Element Race frome with Marzocci Atom Bomb fork & Fox Alps 5 rear shock. Race Face, XTR, & Chris King components | | Bottom Line: | Just a great all around bike. It climbs great, never having a problem on a climb. It descends quickly and fits my riding style all-around. I weigh about 180lbs and am 5'10 with a 32 inseam. I ride an 18 bike and the geometry fits me great. The only thing I would change is to have a longer travel fork only because it's soo fun to descend on. That said, the A-Bomb is still a great fork and complements the bike well. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mojo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Victoria, BC
Date Reviewed: May 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
BC - Anywhere!! | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Very cool design, with almost zero body-flex.
True F/S with the linkage and not a URT.
Impeccable welding throughout.
Excellent geometry. | | Weaknesses: |
'97 Element Race: poor forks (RShx XC long), LX V's were a bit weak. | | Similar Products Used: |
C'Dale F/S, Kona F/S, Brodie F/S, Trek F/S. | | Bike Setup: |
Upgrades: Manitou X-Vert, full XT drive/brakes, Rhyno-Lite with Ritchey/XT hubs, Panaracer FireXC-Pro rubber, riser bar, better saddle. | | Bottom Line: | The bike costed around CAN$2G, and was the best feeling bike out of many that I tried. I didn't care about price too much, I wanted that perfect groove and it has it. It's arrow straight, doesn't get nervous when wailing down the big stuff, and has been faithful even under severe jumping and drops with a rider of 210lbs! I can't say enough about how pleased I am... The frame is immaculate, upgrade as necessary. And a note for pending buyers, some of the welders for RM also do work for Boeing (Ti/Al welding); I think that speaks for itself :) Buy it... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Ross
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: February 12, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a DHRace version of the Element in November for some $2000 Cdn brand spankin' new! I wasn't aware of how good a deal it was, but suffice it to say, it seems in retrospect that I saved enough to buy a set of disk brakes for the front and rear.This is my first full suspension bike. I bought it specifically for bombing the Vancouver North Shore Trails, but perhaps for long recreational cruises and some novice DH Kamikaze racing. That said, this bike has fit my needs perfectly. I am 6'4, so I appreciate the tougher Easton DH-specific tubing, plus the huge head tube gusset (for dual crown forks, I presume?). The rear end reportedly has 6 of travel and the bike came stock with a Z1 and a 2.25x660 spring/Vanilla R shock - plush plush plush - like a sofa! Rocky also spec'd it with nearly 1 longer chain stays, and you can really appreciate that on when sliding the corners during high-speed descents.It is a little disappointing that Rocky neglected to weld a rear disk brake caliper mount, but I'm having one machined, so it's not a big problem. (BTW, Rocky sells disk brake-mount equipped replacement stays and they retail for about $275 Cdn.) Another OEM problem is the Kalloy(Ritchey) seat post - entirely inadequate for tall riders as I bent mine a month ago.After I bought the bike, I worried that the DH geometry and suspension would interfere with my riding style, as I am used to XC riding/racing. I thought I had made a mistake and should have tried harder to find a regular Element or other XC-oriented FS bike. Fortunately, after moving to Vancouver I soon discovered how outrageously technical the legendary 'Shore trails are and the bike has made things a LOT easier to handle. I use every inch of travel, front and rear on the huge drops (though I haven't mastered the 3'+ wheelie-drop technique, yet), and I absolutely LOVE how fast I can bomb some really rough shit. I sometimes find myself getting impatient with guys on hard tails and 3 travel bikes who have to be pickier about their line to stay in control.The plush fully active suspension does bob when you are out of the saddle, but there isn't as much loss of momentum as I feared at first. You can't XC race this bike, but it would be awesome in Kamikaze downhills! Hey, just look at all the pros who rode RMB ElementDHs to podium finishes last year on the World Cup and Canadian Championships!!(One side note, I sure wish Rocky could figure out how Klein - I've got one of those, too - gets such a good paint job on their Aluminum - RMBs powder-coating looks great, but scratches pretty easily. Not that it scratches any easier than all the other makes, just that Klein has THE BEST paint and it's a shame the others haven't replicated it yet.)Good price, good performance, good looks, good durability, good, good, good!Satan, take 5 steps forward, ol' buddy ... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kt
a cross-country rider
from CA
Date Reviewed: February 2, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my 97 Element TO for 14 months now and it has been a fantastic bike. Decked it out with XTR/Raceface/Cane Creek wheels/etc. and this thing ROCKS!!!!! Climbs great, descends great, and is just an all around comfortable bike to ride. Great bike for epic, long day rides and takes all the abuse you can dish out. I would recommend this bike to anyone.... The frame is very stiff and suspension works great. Buy one if you can find one........kt | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gromit
a cross-country rider
from Mission Viejo, CA
Date Reviewed: December 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my Element Team Only for a year now and cannot say enough great things about this bike. It is light, the rear suspension works great - I got mine from Irvine Bike Source and had them switch out the rear ALPS air shot for a Vannila R (this was recommended to me by some of the guys in the shop). While this added a little weight the VR is a great shock. The new frame has the Fox Vannila Float air shock with a lockout lever - I am going to try and upgrade my VR to this shock (save weight). This bike handles great, very neutral and true. It climbs great for a full suspension, goes down great. Again, I cannot recommend it enough. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
R32
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: December 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My love affair with my 97 Element Race is fast approaching it's 1st anniversary, and it's not about to end soon. Over the course of the year, a 96 Speed-Sprung Judy XC, Syncros stem and handlebar, XT wheelset with 517 rims with IRC Mythos XC 1.9 tires, and SDG Ventura Comp saddle found its way onto the bike. Now the front suspension matches the rear end in plushness, though I could use a bit more than just 2.5 inches travel. It is however a very plush 2.5 inches. I am not very happy with the traction from the Mythos XCs, and will change them soon, but that is no fault of the bike. The rest of the components I have added has given this bike more cred, while losing a bit of weight (the Judy XC is heavier compared with the Indy XC, though) overall. For what I paid for everything, it is remarkably light at around 25 or so pounds, and is great for all round cross country riding, climbing is good despite having only 1.9 inchers front and rear, and descending is a breeze, though I have to unweigh the front end a bit to help prevent the front fork running out of travel on rocky terrain. The only niggle has to do with the drive train, which chainsucks occasionally, has a habit of falling off from the smallest chainring and thus scratching up the chainstay quite a bit. Rocky Mountain should have specced a chainsuck protector on this bike. Fortunately, this problem does not manifest itself too often for me to give it anything less than 5 chillis, still. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kirk
a cross-country rider
from Delta, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my new Element Race for only a couple weeks now, and I love it! I was somewhat forced into buying another new bike this year after my '98 Rocky Oxygen Race was stolen (another great bike but now sold out in 19.5.) The guys at the bike shop let me use one of their demo Spice full suspension models for a weekend, and I didn't want another hard tail!As for the Element, the full suspension is a real treat. I upgraded the cranks/rings to Race Face, and changed the GripShift to ESP 9.0SL Shifters/Derailleur. This bike rocks, and it looks real cool too, especially with the RaceFace/ESP add-ons. Glad I got a 98 model, the 99's paint job doesn't look quite as nice in my opinion ;) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cory
a racer
from North Bend WA
Date Reviewed: October 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Rocky Mt. Element TO. I boutht as a frameset in January 98 and built with xtr, raceface, judy sl, nukeproof, etc. the result is a 24.3 lb full-suspension bike that excells in all conditions (yes, even fireroad climbs). The unbelivable singletrack ability gives up a little stability at speeds over 35 mph, a small price to pay since 98% of the time I'm doing less than 35. I raced this thing 20 times in the vet ex. class this season, with very positive results. If you ride in real Mt. bike conditions and can find one, I would highly recommend it. Hardtails are for pro's, real people benifit from full-suspension, unless of course you enjoy beating the shit out of yourself. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave
a cross-country rider
from toronto
Date Reviewed: September 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is in response to an e-mail I got from steve-couldn't send and e-mail to you.Hey!I have had no problem what so ever with anything on my bike. I have done a tonne of riding, 3 24hr races, 5 ontario cup races and ride 3-4 times a week for 4 months. You are about the same size as me I'M 6'2-220lbs-old meat-head hockey player. I have 3 freinds that have the exact same bike the only problem has been a broken LX shifter. I'm not overly impressed with the bushings in lew of what I've heard but my freinds and I have had no problems. Remember when you buy a full suspension bike that bikes that look like bikes work best. 2 A frames opposed to Y frames is where its at. I've riden many F/S bike and have found this bike to work the best for me, but Santa Cruz Tazmons are pretty hot as well, Anyhow, good luck happy trails and yadda yadda yadda....
Dave
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stef.
a cross-country rider
from France
Date Reviewed: September 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Element Race in May'98 and put some serious miles on up to now. The handling of the bike is excellent, a real dream on technical singletrack. Front and rear suspension work nicely together (sod Tango). The rear doesn't pump too much on uphills. The Marzocchi Z3 is a real smooth nice fork, although I blew the seals twice already. I changed the shifters to XT and the wheels to XT/Mavic X517. The shifter cables stuck after the first ride in mud. Goretex cables solved the problem. Unfortunatly there are no mounts for disk brakes neither on the fork nor at the rear. And I would love to upgrade to Magura Louise brakes.
Conclusion: Excellent bike, nice welds, I would give it more than five chilis if I could.
BTW never got any reply from Rocky Mountain to some technical Questions. Why do they have a mail address when they don't reply | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Glynn
a cross-country rider
from Babylon NY
Date Reviewed: September 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I finally bought a full suspension after riding an '88 Cannondale rigid Beast of the East, that full suspension is a 20.5 Rocky Mountain Element Race and it rocks.
I'm 6'4 so I need a big bike and I had to swap that lame ritchy seatpost for a long-as-they make Syncros(they rule) and while I was at it I swapped they stock tires for Yeti's(ever since I first tried Yeti tires I've not ridden anything else), also I swapped some XTR shifter/brake levers and XT brakes my friend gave me and my dealer (the Bike Junkie) upgraded me to a Marzochi Z1(yahoo). The first time I rode this bike I did about a 24 mile singletrack ride and it was a total blast, I cannot belive I rode a full rigid for so long, now I know that I'd rather have the control and comfort(no more jammed wrists) at the expense of a little extra weight to peddal around. I didn't think the colors were cool but now I like them. Oh yeah that skinny little light weight saddle got traded for a Bezerker Ti. My buddy who rides an Elsworth Truth talked me into this bike and he was right Rocky Mountain
makes a greate product. p.s. my dealer gave me all the swaps at no extra charge and stayed at the shop till midnight building it the day it came in so I could ride like a maniac the very next day, ride the Element fast and have a blast. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Reto
a weekend warrior
from Switzerland
Date Reviewed: September 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got an Element from RMB to replace my broken Rocky-EDGE (crudos to RMB warranty promises). This was the best that can happen to me ! The Element is a pure fun machine ! My fellas and me are hammering like mad in the neck of the woods and having a good time. Specially on some ‘you fall you die’ trails the Element gives much control. As an optimal setup I recommend a longtravel fork. I have a VOTEC GS3 fork with 6 to 12 cm travel (a German product). This is a dream to ride !!!!The weak points are :
- not bearing sealed pivots !
- by far not 9 cm rear travel on an 18’ frame !!!!
- no linkage replacement kit for more rear travel availableThe more important thing than what you have with such a bike is what are you doing with it !! Go ahead and have fun out there....I give 5 chilies because the fun I had and for the main frame (not for the linkage system....)
Greetings to all bikers out there !! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin S
a cross-country rider
from Venice, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Update of my first review. This bike is great! After 2 months the new bike grin hasn't worn off at all, the more I ride it the more I love it. Here's how mine is setup:Z2 BAM fork with a heavy spring added and the oil level dropped to 47. Alps 5R shock set to 10mm sag at 150 pounds, about 5 under my body weight. XT Rapidfire shifter/levers and steel 12-32 XTR cassette. The rest of the drivetrain and brakes are as it came, pretty useful. The LX/Mavic 220 and 221 wheels from my old bike (I had a few problems with the stock wheelset). Bontrager Jones tires, an order of magnitude better than the Velociraptors it came with. I fitted it with a 130mm stem (stock is 117mm) and a 2 Azonic PDW riser bar, cut down to about 25. No problem on steep climbs but a lot easier to ride on steep descents and drop-off's. Control Tech seatpost with a Ti Flite saddle. And a Sachs SC-91 chain and an Avenir teflon cable kit which together, really improved the shifting. Future upgrades: XTR crankset, Easton CT2 seatpost and nicer wheels which should get the weight down to 25.something.Dialed like this it's an awesome trail bike. It handles well everywhere, is comfortable and easy to ride, and is capable of a lot more than I am. It rides like a $4000 bike but wasn't. The 4 of suspension travel isn't quite as plush as a 4 coil-over bike but it doesn't float and bob like one, either. The rising rate limits the travel somewhat which actually helps balance it against the shorter travel fork. It's a great XC setup that's light enough and efficient enough to race with.But not all has been perfect; I had a problem with one of the bushings, the seatstay link started clunking. Rocky's team tech fixed it for me at Big Bear and it hasn't been a problem since. Also, it's highly recommended that you remove each pivot bolt and add a drop of blue Loctite (#242) since they've been known to back out on some people's bikes. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dan
a cross-country rider
from tahoe
Date Reviewed: August 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike about two months ago. All I can say is that this bike kicks ass. Only three problems. One is the shifters; LX is trash. They broke after a month. Two is the pedals; ritchey is trash (well, at least the pedals are). The tension screw broke the first day. Now I'm stuck with hardly any tension on one foot.The third hasn't really been a problem so far, but it sucks none-the-less. The derrailer hanger isn't replaceable. Five chilis for rocky mountain, four for the components. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a cross-country rider
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: August 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just finished a 24hr event in Barrie, Ont. Must say this bike is sweet!! No
problems with bobbing ect. I rode a blizzard for years and swore I'd never
ride full suspension, until that is... The nasty Rocky rep (you know who you are) forced me to take an element for a week-end. Needless to say he hasn't seen it since-that was a month and a half ago. I have the race set-up with the European options all for $1900 cdn.-not bad at all. The bike wants speed-to really enjoy it you've got to take it out hard. If you're not into speed, with a hint of very technical climbing and a dash of windy single-track this and the bike for you-hmmmm-sounds like a great recipe-better add 5 hot chili's!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave
a weekend warrior
from paradise,nf.,canada
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Update from my last review .... I have to agree with Volkov from B.C. that increasing the preload actually improves the ride of the bike. It seams to bite better on accents, bobs less (although I think this is also partially due to adapting to the bikes quirks without knowing) anyway it seems to work. It's true what you've heard ... you have give a full suspension rig time ...little things- like less pedal clearance when the suspension is working on the baby head rock gardens. You learn to anticipate and adjust your pedal strokes. One bad thing and a number of other riders have also commented on it - there is no replacable rear deraileur dropout and of course the worst happened. While on a ride from my house, about 1 mile in the woods at a walking pace accross a bog a small twig got caught in my rear dereileur... wham no more rear deraileur. It tore completely out of the frame- stripping the threads. The Winged Angle of Death was grounded. Needless to say my thoughts were dark on the walk back to my house. At this point I was not too pleased with RockyMountain. Dropped the bike of at the shop next day.... New Deraileur ....took four tries to fit a helicoil....$130 bill. Big bad bummer. Now I,m a little doubtfull of riding on rough trails and tend not to stray to far from the car or house. My dealer says he is not to pleased with Rocky either. I mentioned the fact that there was no replacable rear deraileur drop when I first got the bike; Rocky's ad says Best Built -Period. Makes you wonder. Now don't get me wrong the Element Race is one fine ride. Its just that when you have such a great bike a ( in my opinin) gross oversite like this seems much worse. Still 5 chilies for the bike 4 for Rocky. p.s. I'm sending the bottom part of the rear triangle back at the end of the riding season. My dealer says Rocky will cut the trashed part out and weld in an new one for the cost of shipping. Hope the Helicoil holds up till then.... I don't think I could last too long without my rig. God Bless the Trail Builders....ta ta and don't fly to close to the sun. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dom Longman
a weekend warrior
from London, England
Date Reviewed: August 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Got my Element Race two weeks ago, I would never go back to a hard-tail now.
It climbs and descends brillantly, the quality of the frame is excellent except
the rear mech hanger is not replaceable? (fitted a break away). I tried an FSR before
the element and it was good but was no way near as efficient cross-country.
There are only two things wrong with the bike as standard. The LX-shifters are
c**p (change them) and the front velociraptor tire is too sketchy
in English mud!.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Volkov
a cross-country rider
from Prince George, BC
Date Reviewed: August 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I really wanted the Element TO, but there were none available anywhere. Got the Element Race, and upgraded the fork and switched my XTR shifters, brakes and der. over to it. The stock bike was a great deal for what it gives you. 6 weeks later and I am just loving this bike. I am still tweaking the suspension, and in my travels I have made one or two interesting observations. I initially tried setting up the suspension soft, but increasing the preload and rebound damping has actually made the suspension more smooth. I guess that with minimal preload it settled too far into the travel and became more stiff. This could be a universal thing, but may also relate to the suspension rate of the Rocky's linkage. Initially, I noticed that the suspension bobbed when hammering climbs. Without even thinking, I seem to have adapted my position and technique, and this doesn;t happen anymore.
The Zokes may still be heavy, but they really do ride nicely. Don't notice the weight when trying to loft the front end though so I have no complaints. The bike climbs like mad. Yesterday I was soooo pumped because at the end of a two hour ride I cleaned this final steep at the end of a longer hill. The final section is chin-to-handlebar steep and has about 4 ledges each 4-5 inches high which always stuffed my hardtail. I have never ridden up that thing before and frankly thought it was out of my league. Downhills are just too sweet too. Excellent control, and a smooth ride. My only regret now is that I didn't get a Rocky Element 2.5 years ago when I bought the new hardtail. I am loving suspension. 2 hours of ugly rooty, technical singletrack and I don't feel beat up at all, but the suspension is a moderate 3.5 so you still feel the trail. I would recommend anyone buying a new bike to check out the Element.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc D Roach
a weekend warrior
from Langley, B.C., Canada
Date Reviewed: July 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Purchased my '98 Rocky Element Race in April and have never looked back. Upgraded to Z-2, XT cranks rings and shifters, Mavic 517 hoops & XT hubs. I have ridden this thing on all types of terrain...fast sweeping downhill, super technical singletrack (North Shore), cross country, you name it. This is a great ride that handles beutifully and is very forgiving. Also, this bike is great for jumping with the more compact frame design. You cannot go wrong with this Canadian built ride...it ROCKS. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis
a cross-country rider
from Baltimore, MD
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Overall it is the best full-suspension cross-country, It jumps descends, and climbs better than any other f.s. XC bike that i have tried. I absolutely love it and best of all Rocky stands behind their product 100% I love this bike, I decked it out with all xtr, raceface, and a z.2 bomber which is the best fork in the industry. I absolutely love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill S
a cross-country rider
from Long Island, New York
Date Reviewed: June 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchase the Element t.o frame and Bomber Z2 fork back in March. I built it up with SRAM 9.0sl shifters and rear derailleur, XTR front derailleur, Chris King headset, Syncros handlebars and seatpost, Raceface cranks and bottom bracket, Kore elite stem, Real chainrings and Chris King hubs, Mavic 217 rims and Bontrager Jones tires. I had a Schwinn Homegrown FS. I waited until I had over 150 miles on the bike before I could give an objective review. The bike it great, the real deal the bomb. I ride mostly single track. The bike climbs great (much better than the Schwinn) and feels extremly stable. On downhill sections the bike handles as if it is on rails. The Fox Alps 5R and Bomber Z2 match up really well and absorb small and big bumps with no problem ( the Bomber Z2 totally blows alway the Judy XC that I have on the Schwinn and is worth the exra weight). In summary if you want to move up to a real FS bike get the Element t.o. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Scheven
a cross-country rider
from Bella Coola BC
Date Reviewed: June 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Just took delivery of my new Element Race last night. Sold my Marin Eldridge Grade to get it (damn nice to have the Canadian flag on the Race!) Rode it to work on the asphalt for 23 km, wasn't as speedy with the beefier tires. On the trip home I did half pavement half trail. Well now HERE is the beauty of this bike! Very smooth, fabu brakes & nice to have those goofy indicators that tell you high-low gear. So far so good. I am doing the Kettle Valley Railway next week on it, and I expect great things. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a weekend warrior
from Paradise, Nfld., Canada
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Update on Element Race, May25, 1998....
Well it's been about a month now and all I can do is wonder why I hadnt switched to full suspension before this. The ER is one fine ride; fast-dependable-confortable-fun-fun-fun. I'm always amazed at it's climbing ability (wihtout bar-ends), it will find traction anywhere and the front end refuses to get light and wander (130mm stem with Profile riser bar). I'm no kamakasi downhiller but the ER almost takes over and makes you go fast, the steering is precise and rigid....quick enought in the woods yet stable on downhills. The front fork absorbs all but the biggest hits and even then you don't bounce off wildly but remain in complete control. I have to agree with some of the other reviewers that white and blue would not be my first choice, even my wife liked my old bike's color (polished and clearcoated alu.) much better, o well at least the paint job is bombproof-I should know as I have a habit of falling off....especially since this is my first bike with clipless pedals. It's to bad that Rocky dosn't make a bike between the ER and the E-TO- say atom bomb, Raceface cranks, Syncros post and stem, riser bar, Fox Vanilla RX and ESP shifters and rear del. Flies Daniel ,flies.... Still five chilies...gotta love it. p.s. I dreampt I saw the apostles forging and new trail
that only the lord almighty himself could rightly sail.....
They carved it out of Granite, twisted it with roots
and just for fun when they were done
sent me directions in the mail.... .. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin S
a
from Venice, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '98 Element Race, but it's setup like a T.O. with a Bomber Z2B and Fox Alps 5R.I've only had it a few weeks and it's my first full suspension bike, but so far I love it! $1700 with the suspension upgrades, or about the same as a high end frame. It's a true precision bike, built by actual hockey fans, not Asian robots. Robots have a better vocabulary than most hockey fans, but let's see one ride a bike!The slow speed handling is amazing, especially on steep singletrack. It has a longer wheelbase than my hardtail and a 4-pound fork, but is still easier to wrangle around switchbacks and lift the front end over stuff. I've never been much of a technical rider but this bike is making me better at it. The rear end doesn't bob too much and keeps working no matter what you're doing with the pedals or brakes. It loves air and is easy and fun to ride on any terrain, especially the steep kind. It's no 23 pound hardtail on long, steady climbs but for steeper, more technical climbing, the bike is a freakin' tractor. It gets traction and holds its line like nothing I've ever ridden before. The attention to detail is incredible for a bike in this price range. The headset is smooth and well sealed, with a nice metal top cap. The quick release seatpost collar is trim and effective, the brakes are strong and reliable, and the cable routing is perfect. The frame and fork have plenty of mud clearance if you ride where that's common, or for 2.2 tires if you ride where it isn't. They even put some noodles on the top tube cables instead of those lame little doughnut things most companies use. These bikes are made by people who really know bikes.Aesthetically, I think it looks great. White wouldn't be my first choice but the red fork and blue triangle adds kind of bi-centennial vibe to the Canadian bike (go figure, eh). The quality of the paint is top-drawer and it's holding up really well. But my favorite thing is that the stickers aren't clearcoated so you can remove them! Why drag a bunch of advertising into the woods?For the money I paid for it I can't complain about much, but it does have a few upgrade paths. The Ritchey seatpost is a generic double-pincher type and I didn't like the tires very much. The rear wheel came unglued after two rides, but the shop gave me a new one that's holding up better but started to flat spot again after a few rides (the front wheel is fine, though). The handlebar is a definite tosser though, as are the slippery grips and LX-but-Alivo-quality shifters (ok at least they aren't Grip Shite).Anyway, if you're thinking of buying one of these bikes, you won't regret it. The T.O. is awesome but the Race isn't far away. If you put the fork and shock from one onto a Race it'll ride just as well but cost half as much. You can do a lot with seventeen hundred dollars, like buy a nice rack and some new tires for your car and drive the bike somewhere cool, or put it on a plane and go to Costa Rica. For a month. Two of the front triangle tubes on the T.O. are a bit lighter but the primary weight diffo is from the shock, the Alps being about a half-pound lighter. The rear end, links, and geometry are identical. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a racer
from canada
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I absolutly love my element t.o. The only problem was the fox rear shock...it needed revalving after 3000 km...but fox replaced it no questions asked(seeing I weigh in at 200 lbs) This bike rocks Rocky Mountain builds the best bikes................eat my dust ht riders!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Ti springs in the judy sl lt definately make for a plusher ride. The finish and componets are impecable. Gotta love it!!!!!!!!!1 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ZaNDER
a cross-country rider
from Kootenays,BC
Date Reviewed: June 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
For the first 9 months I thought this was a dope machine, invincible, then came the next week, the main bottom pivot(bottom bracket) started to have some play. Within a year? What the hell? sure the company makes replacements but this really sucks, the pivot should be larger, or have real bearings instead of plastic bushings, especially right in this critical point, where all forces are concentrated. The horizontal force from pedalling, ( Steep Kootenay terrain requires my 22t granny, and eighth,32 tooth cog need to be filed off every week)- and the vertical force from the suspension action. , I think I'll send Rocky Some Feed back. Also the derailluer hanger is not replacable. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chester
a cross-country rider
from Salt Lake City
Date Reviewed: May 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Been riding my '98 Element Race for almost a month now, so I guess I'm now qualified for a review. First off, this bike rocks! Just changing over from my GT hardtail to this bike, I can feel a major difference. I've got more traction on the climbs, and descending is almost like a dream. The Z3 and rear Fox soak up most of the major hits, and the x-country geometry of the bike means very quick handling on the singletrack. Just a few negative comments: The suspension is VERY active, which is great for climbing and descending offroad, but is not so good for the asphalt, particularity if you tend to power out of the saddle a lot. I like my shock settings with a little higher preload to compensate. Also, I tried upgrading the Z2 to a Z3, but the place I bought it from said that Rocky Mountain wouldn't ship it without the fork and give me credit fo it. Oh well...the Z3 works pretty good anyway, though it could use some rebound adjustments.Overall, great bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DAVE
a
from PARADISE, NFLD., CA
Date Reviewed: May 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I ORDERED IN AN ELEMENT RACE (WITH RACE FACE CRANKS, RINGS AND BB-- IT'S THE EUROPEAN OPTION} FROM OUR LOCAL DEALER. I WAS GOING TO GET JUST THE FRAME AS I ALREADY HAVE A MOSTLY XT BIKE, EXCEPT FOR THE CRANKS, BUT DECIDED ON A FULL BIKE TO GET THE RACE FACE AN ZOKES Z3 FORK. I REPLACED ALMOST EVERTHING ELSE FROM MY OLD BIKE AND PUT THE ROCKY WHEELS, BRAKES ETC. ON MY OLD FRAME. THIS WAS DONE BY MY BIKE SHOP. WHILE SETTING UP THE CHANGED COMPONENTS HE NOTICED THAT THE CRANK RINGS (RACE FACE) DID NOT SHIFT SMOOTHLY-22,32,44, AND ADVISED THAT I SWITCH TO THE BIG S, XT. AFTER ALL WAS SAID AND DONE I NOW HAVE ELEMENT RACE WITH ALL XT EXCEPT FOR XRAY SHIFTERS AND RISER BAR. I TOOK MY FIRST RIDES ON SAT. AND SUN. I CANNOT BEGIN TO DESCRIBE THE DIFFERENCE. FAR MORE TRACTION ON CLIMBS, EVEN WITHOUT BAR ENDS. BABY HEAD ROCK GARDENS NO PROBLEM. WOOD GNOME SLIMED ROOTS NO PROBLEM. STEEP RUTTY DECENTS NO PROBLEM.TO SAY THAT THIS BIKE MAKES RIDING MORE ENJOYABLE WOULD BE A GROSS UNDERSTATEMENT. IT IS FANTASTIC. THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT FULL SUSPENSION IS THE FUTURE OF TRAIL RIDING.
A FEW NOTES...THE ELEMENT FRAME DOES NOT HAVE REPLACEABLE DERAILLEUR HANGERS.... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek
a racer
from Red Deer, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a '98 Element Race frame and a '98 Blizzard. Sold the Blizzard frame and threw all components on the Element including Syncros hinged stem, handlebar, Ti post, Race Face cranks and rings, XT shifters and brakes, and a Bomber Z-2 (but OEM version has Z-3 outer legs). I also threw on a pair of Cane Creek Cronos with very light tubes and tires.
Although I'm not roadie obsessed on weight, I was somewhat disappointed about the 27 lb weight (weighed on an electronic hanging scale). I was expecting under 26 lbs, especially with the nice hoops. The 4.3 lb Bomber is pretty much sinking me in the weight category. Now for the good news.
The bike is simply amazing. My riding buddy and I used to be even descending...used to being the key words. This bike can fly without the rider even noticing the extra speed. Climbing? It's a pleasure. The thing climbs way better than any hardtail I've ridden. The only sacrifice I can see is during an out and out standing sprint. How much time do you spend on sprinting compared to climbing and descending? I like the Fox rear shock and keep the damping set to a minimum.
One thing I've gotta mention. Raced last weekend and the course organizers threw in a small part in the course that most had not pre-ridden. It was a steep and short descent kicking up sharply like a freestyle ski kicker. Every hardtail I saw go over it either endo'd or pushed the endo envelope. Every FS bike that went over it remained perfectly in control. Coincidence? I don't think so. I was skeptical about buying a FS, but now am I glad I did!Locked again on five chilis! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron Z
a cross-country rider
from San Francisco, CA
Date Reviewed: May 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've ridden a hardtail recreationally for 4 years and began racing last year. It was time for an upgrade. During my shopping and research for my new baby my friend highly recommended that I look into a full suspension. I was EXTREMELY against it and didn't think twice about it...until I came across the a Rocky Mountain Element. After a test ride I discovered that the 4 bar linkage system was awesome in it's climbs and made a huge difference on my decents. Also, the custom built model that I tested weighed 24.5 pounds...my hardtail weighs in at 24! I was told that you can even get these bikes even lighter. Not to mention, the quality and craftsmenship on the bike is impecable! I was sold! I received the bike on a Thursday and raced it that Sunday. This was the moment of truth...just as expected: strong climbing with very minimal bob, handled single track like a HumV, and decended like a bat out of hell. No,I didn't win the race but crossing the finish line was so much easier this time around.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a cross-country rider
from Raleigh
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Well, Hot Damn !Love this bike. Have had it a year now, and can't think of anything I'd want to replace it with. Have the 96 Element; came w/ XT der & shifters, LX cantis, Q21 and Sugino crank. When bought, slapped on my XT V-brakes, Race Face crank & bars, a Judy SL, and my old front hoop, 217 w/Machine tech hub. Now we're talking, down to 26 lbs. Hurled everything I could think of at the bike, including two week trip to Moab and the Hardwood Hills 24hrs of Adrenalin. Absolutely bullet proof, no flex at all. this year, changing hoops for the Cane Creek cronos.Also, thinking of swapping the Fox Vanilla for a Cane Creek AD-10... any input ?Overall, an incredible bike, especially for light weight FS and durability. BUY CANADIAN ! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: April 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just built up a 97' elemet frame. I put a sx-ti on it and cooks E crank with ritchey Ti pedals.With mostly stock Xt Parts. And a Azonic Riser bar. After riding my creation over the weekend I come to the conclusion that this is the best darn cross-country bike I have ever put together.And anyone out there would have to look long and hard for anything that handels so well for so little green.My advice is don't waste your money on all those high doller rides out there. Rocky is the only way to go. P.S. Get one before the price goes up. Mark. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a racer
from coquitlam b.c.
Date Reviewed: April 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a 98' Rocky Mountain DH race, it's the same as the element but with better front and rear shocks set up for downhill. The rear shock setup rocks it does not bob on climbs it sprints well and is fully active. The only things I upgraded were the cranks to RaceFace and the shifters to XTR. This bike is the best full suspension ever made, pure Canadian made quality and strength designed to handle anything you throw at it, and because it was designed and tested in Canada it is meant to handle lots of rough and wet terrain like it was paved. This bike RULES!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wannabe Frorider
a cross-country rider
from NYC
Date Reviewed: April 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'll never go back to a hardtail, previously had a Fisher Hoo Koo and the difference is like night and day. This Element Race rides so smooth, I don't notice the suspension bob at all and the ride is so plush. Great parts selection, near-perfect welds, this machine screams QUALITY!!! None of the other manufacturers can touch this CUSTOM BUILT beauty when it comes to value.
Rocky rules in my book. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rider
a cross-country rider
from New York
Date Reviewed: April 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been riding the '98 Element Race for a few weeks. I made several changes
including suspension/cranks/bb/headset upgrades to name a few. The bike is
great and most likely a good ride without my upgrades. The geometry of the bike
gives me confidence on the steep stuff. The frame is very durable and the paint job is awesome. I've taken several spills with no damage to the frame. There were no nicks to the paint as well! So far, the pivots have been holding up with no apparant play or noise. Gotta go with five chillies for this fine Canadian made rig! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
per-ivar
a weekend warrior
from norway
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
T.O. is the best and fastest
bike i have ridden
I have ridden this bike since nov.97 and o love it
it is and unstoppable dual-suspension racing machine
i recommend this bike to anyone who likes to ride cross-country
the geometry is perfect,
NOBODY BUILDS A BICYCLE LIKE ROCKY MOUNTAINsorry for bad english
RM is the best | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charles Coker
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is just an update to my previous review...
still loving it...
I have been riding for about 7 years, have had numerous highend (Kona Ti, hardtail, Schwinn Homegrown FS (NO comparison) Kona Kula hardtail, etc..)
and have ridden just about every other thing out there..
I have a Risse Terminator air shock on it
a polished Atom Bomb, XTR shifter/levers/der.s, Race Face cranks and BB, King headset XTR/217 rear wheel and a Mavic Crossland front, Avid V brakes, Bontrager stem and recently tried and have now switched to a (yes, it's true) stupid, fad, poser, spode set of riser bars, the Bontaragers.... man... I thought they
were the dumbest thing for XC, but. I LOVE them... This is a _great_ bike from Rocky (or in my case, frame)5 smoking hot stinging, rip your face off Chiles!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jedi Knight
a
from Western Oregon
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just picked up a 98 DH Race. It's the same as the Element Race but with 5-1/2 inches in the rear and the Z1 up front. This thing rides like a Cadillac. Iv'e had it for three days now so i can't give an in depth review but so far this thing screams. It does bob when you sprint but a smooth pedal stroke and properly set up shock all but eliminates that. Oh, and watch the rear shock front mounting bolt as mine is already slightly bent( I took the shock off to try a heavier spring) For $1995 you cant beat this deal.I'll report back in a couple months | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed K
a cross-country rider
from LI N.Y. USA
Date Reviewed: March 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I been riding the Element Race for several weeks now. This is a seriously well thought out bike. The component selection is above average considering the price level. I upgraded to raceface cranks & XTR shifters. As a cross country fun machine this bike is hard to beat. A full five HOT Chiles. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
R32
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: January 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought a 97 Element Race that was on clearance for the equivalent of something like US$1000 yesterday, then promptly gave it a baptism of fire today. Through dust, rain, mud, the bike held true. Love the frame, the light weight, and the high component standard (LX mostly with XT rear derailleur). I'm not happy with the included Gripshift 800s being a Rapidfire user. I'm going to change them as soon as possible. The included Ritchey are also non SPD compatible (bummer) but hey, they're clipless pedals. I bottomed out the rear shock several times (even hopping off curbs) maybe I set the preload too low. The Indy XC fork proved to be flex free when hitting rocks, but I wish it was more supple (this was already minimum preload). Oh well, at least they don't bob during hard out-of-saddle efforts like my brother's 98 Judy SL does. Other than that, this bike is perfect as an XC full suspension bike - light and agile, with little suspension induced bob, yet still being active - excellent. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven C.
a downhiller
from Ottawa CANADA
Date Reviewed: October 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got a '98 Rocky Mountain Element DH T.O. for an incredible low price with a sweet DH setup. The bike handles all the rough shit I through at it. The geometry is perfect and is built like a tank but rides like a porsche. Nice work guys. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver Island, BC
Date Reviewed: October 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have recently purchased a '98 Element Race and am extremely happy with the performance of this machine. The Z3 Bombers soak up everything I throw at them and the Fox rear has yet to bottom out, but I did have to upgrade the spring to a 550 for my weight of 182 lbs. Running both cross country and downhill this bike has given new meaning to FS! Highly recommended for serious Canadian-made fun at a reasonable price! I give it a High five Chilis! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
charles coker
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I got a new frame last week, it's a Rocky Mountain Element full
suspension. It uses the tried and true (as in on the Ventana Marble
Peak) linkage setup where the shock is mounted horizontally under the
top tube, right in front of the seattube.I looked long and hard at FS designs, I really, really dug the
Ventana's setup, it was light and quick, fully active (meaning always
working) but did not pogo when you hammered, felt very responsive and
quick. Unfortunately, the geometry wasn't quite right for me, I have
been riding and loving Konas for their agility in tight, technical
singletrack.So..
I came across the Rocky Element, same EXACT geometry specs (angles,
headtube length (very important to me) toptube length, chainstay
length, etc.. but with the Ventana linkage setup.I have done a few rides on it and LOVE it.
I can clean rocky technical climbs better than on my Ti hardtail.
and it does NOT feel like a big mush pig when I accelerate...I am replacing the coil over shock with a Risse Terminator air shock
which is signifigantly lighter and (from several experiences) will
make the bike accelerate even quicker...Frame construction is top notch, handbuilt Easton Elite butted front
triangle with a 6061 rear triangle, priced VERY good.(I won't say what I got my frame for, it was a demo model with about
10 hrs on it, and I got an insane price)If you are in the market for a FS that handles quick and responsively
and is setup for singletrack, the nastier the better... check it out.Charles Coker
Austin, TX
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brendan billings
a weekend warrior
from calgary, alberta
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have only done one real ride on the bike so far (the element t.o.), but anyways heres what i think. The weight or lack of therefore, is the first thing you notice about the bike. This thing likes to accellerate in any gear, and is very responcive to pedal input. It climbs fairly well with little pedal induced bobing. Handling is quick, and due to the lite weight the bike is very flickable and highly manoverable, but not at the price of high speed handling (although it will keep you awake on mach 2 bomb runs). Excellent in the trees, good on the fire roads, and great on things in between. The rear foxr5 is very sweet once you dial it to your weight and riding style, unfortantly the same cannot be said for the judy sl in its stock form. It didnt matter if high or low speeds are encountered, the judy feels harsh and not very progressive. For the money your paying for this bike, get the dealer to throw in a set of coil springs for fork, as it will do wonders for the fork. Components are top notch (which on a bike this price should go with saying), and I dig the amount of Canadian content (race face bars, crank, b.b., and headset. syncros stem and seat post). Overall, the quality of the bike and it's ride is very high, and once it's forks are done up right, one gets the feeling that this bike can do everything well. A 5 star performance in my book. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
md
a cross-country rider
from us
Date Reviewed: October 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
do not get near this i did factory assembly hugh the vaccum sealed helium leaked and after only 1076 miles the frame desintigrated no go! | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve S.
a racer
from Chandler, AZ
Date Reviewed: October 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great bike! I have the Element Race. Stiff frame, beautiful paint job, decent componentry. Changed-out the flexy Indy forks for Manitou's, this helped handling and matched the front and rear suspension more evenly. This bike is a great climber on rocky uphills and is lots of fun on the downhills. Highly recommend this bike for the value that it is! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimmy
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the TO. It cost more but I think worth it! I have a Z2 instead. The bike is killer cross country Especially in the NW were there is real mountain biking. This is poss. the first dual sus. that can be raced at proff. level. It climbs tech. better than hard tail. It decends faster. It single tracks with ease. It goes where you steer. It is simply the ultimate NW race bike at 24lbs (special upgrades) you can not only enjoy racing you can win. Man does it ever go fast on choppy runouts. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lance
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, B.C.
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Best money for the value and kicks ass too! I did make a few changes as the bike is priced so well that Rockey mountain had to save some money somewhere! I got the dealer to upgrade my fork to Z2 bomber and I changed the stem to a Syncros 30 deg. downhill stem. I got a great deal as the Rockey mountain factory is right here and they are clearing out their 97 stock! In fact, I called my local bike shop at 9am and they placed an order into Rockey Mountain and the bike was ready at 2:30 the same day. ( straight from the factory! ) I paid only $2088 CDN ( or about $1500 US ) with the upgrades. The bike is so much nicer with the Z2 fork, very plush if you like that kind of ride ( which I do. ) The only other things I will replace after they are trashed are the cranks, rings and cassette. ( will use Race Face crank and rings! ) The bike handles like a dream and holds it's line very well. And I can't believe how much faster I can go downhill than I did before. The quality of the bike speaks for itself, I don't think their are to many manufactures that put in this much time or quality in a bike ( and I have the bottom end version, not the Team Only one! ) It really does make a difference if a bike is totally hand built. But is this the best FS bike out there? No, but then this bike only costs $1300 US dollars! I honestly believe this is the best FS for the dollar. There is no equal at this price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark M.
a weekend warrior
from San Diego, California
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Have had my Element Race for 2 months. Love it, love it, love it! Upgraded to Judy DH, XT rapidfires and V-brakes. This bike is incredibly plush - has a wonderful ride that saves my body from the rocky trails out here. It handles beautifully and climbs extremely well; only notice bob on the road. No downsides that I've noticed; Ive ridden it hard and it's taken all the punishment without any squeaks, rattles or bumps. Definitely a keeper. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
R. Michael
a racer
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently purshased a race element, after owning a m2 stumpjumper
for 2 years. It has taken several rides to get the suspension dial in.
I still can't believe how much faster full suspension is on singal track
and downhill. You notice the suspension climbing, but you get use to
it. I agree with Mary from Frederick, Iwould recommend this bike to
anybody looking for a full suspension bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
s russel
a cross-country rider
from frederick,MD
Date Reviewed: August 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding my element race since March,97 with no problems at all. I race it occasionally as well as my hardtail depending on the course. I've upgraded a few things based on my personal preference. Replaced the indy for xc with 3 inches of travel, grip shift for rapid fire' just cant get excited about grip shift'. I used to have a y22 which was also a very reliable bike with a very different design. Anyway, I have had no trouble with either of these bikes and overall even though they are totally different designs they dont feel that different to me. Both bob when sprinting out of the saddle, both feel very plush in the saddle but the Rocky Mountain feels pretty much the same regarless of sitting or standing. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this bike to anyone who likes to ride a lot and wants a reliable full suspension that will offer years of fun in the woods. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jon ayles
a racer
from nb
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
tottally rockey
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rockey Clark
a weekend warrior
from Canada
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Element has been a weekend warriors dream come true. This beast has superior components and what can be said about that hand built Canadian frame, (Yankee builders should take note). I hammer it hard and it begg's for more. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pedal
a cross-country rider
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After a summer (down under) racing and trailing my 97 Element Race...ACTION: Light (about 26 lbs) for FS at this price. Sharp handling...this thing likes racing and singletrack and takes some finesse...it does get twitchy on fast fireroad downhill corner stuff. For my XC the suspension is just fine...I just set the sag and rode...I'm told I should ditch the long travel Indy XC's and get some real forks but for me so far the Indys perform great. There is a little pedal bob but my race results improved over my alloy hardtail...the small loss on the uphills was more than compensated by speed in the rough and downhill, and especially not tiring from the hardtail beat-up.BUILD: I'm impressed by Rocky quality in the frame and component selection...no failures this season. The 'handmade in Canada' thing is more than marketing shit (handbuilt wheels stayed true)...this is like a custom built bike...and here at least it's at a very competitive price with the Taiwan drones from the mega-companies.GRIPES: Rocky should fit bar-ends for a bike built mainly for XC. In this price range it should come with kevlar tyres. Shifting was sticky early (due to the Sedis chain?) so I fitted a Rollamajig which fixed it. A personal thing ...some of us hate grip shit and so I fitted RF pods. I wish it only weighed 24 lbs and had no pedal bob at all (don't try to stand and sprint this bike on the road!) but as a bike for real off-road epics or racing on a realistic budget the Element Race recieves five gold stars from this punter. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a cross-country rider
from Portland
Date Reviewed: April 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the new Element Race with a few major upgrades. I can't believe
how great this thing rides. All Rockies are high quality, but this bike
is exceptional. Nice price as well, $1679. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Goldsbury
a weekend warrior
from new zealand
Date Reviewed: April 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
These bikes kick any other bike i have experianced yet. i have many good friends who ride
them hard, yet no one has cracked one yet, i don't know of any other real bikes (fs) which
can claim this. one of my friends likes his so much he now has the element dh team bike also
which is more of the same, great. If you are looking at buying a bike this is the best bet,
it is heaps like my Turner but many pingas($) less. We race XC, DH and most importantly ride em
hard and these bikes love it all. In my experiance the vanilla sprung ones feel better than than
the Alps 5 ones. One of these babies will convert you into full suspension very quickly and probably
stop you from buying a bike which isn't a rocky ever again
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Chieduch
a cross-country rider
from Kamloops B.C Canada
Date Reviewed: March 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
THE FRAME:
- The Element's Canadian-made front triangle is built from Easton Taperwall aluminum tubing, which is mated to a
6061-aluminum rear triangle. With beefy welds this makes out to be one hell of a stiff frame! (I run Shimano XT- V Brakes
and still the frame flex is minimal)SUSPENSION:
- With a Rock Shox Qaudra 21R up front and a FOX Vanilla on the rear with just a tad over 3 inches of travel. The Pivot
place has been questioned by other companys but Rockey Mountain States that this location Reduces Flex I personally
have not experienced any problems with it. The Fox Vanilla does a superb job on the rear, eliminating bobbing and working
when you stand as well as sitting.Overall:
- For the price this bike has superb components such as GRIP-SHIFT SRT 600
and Shimano XT front and rear derailers. Ritchey Rock rims with DT Swiss spokes. And with Rictchey Logic Spuds...
WOW! this is one hell of a bike!
I have ridden this bike hard for 1 year now and havent had any mechanical problems or failiers etc. This is Damn Strong Bike
Light Too (26.5 LBS) | | Overall Rating: |
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