Not sure if this has been covered here or in another thread but I have yet to get thru all posts in Element threads.
I got my Element A50 in Feb of this year and have not gotten off it much, so I've got over 1000mi on it for the season. Really glad I bought it and got a pretty good deal from Sun&Ski for ~$2500.
I did buy an Optic a couple months ago thinking it would be similar to Element (as Geometry is very close) with just little more travel, and while it may work for some, never felt as good as Element for me (rode Optic for ~200mi). So selling Optic and keeping Element (and bought a StEvo).
Just picked up some Hayes A2s to put on Element so figure will tear down bike, clean/rebuild/replace as needed. I really do not know intervals but have other bikes can ride and shock or pivots do not feel as smooth as should when press down on bike (though I dont really notice when riding). Shock does seem to lose some air when sits a while but not terrible like the Rockshox super deluxe on Optic that looses 50-100psi over a day or two.
Going to pickup pivot bearings, figure I will just buy the RM #1812004 kit for $65 and next time can pickup just some single bearings as needed if can find for cheaper.
Is the RM #1810031 Bearing Eyelet Tool Kit worth getting for $59?
There is also the Shock Bearing Eyelet Kit 1 #1811007 $45 but not sure this is needed as thought bearing kit had enough bearings to replace these, thou I am sure easier to replace with this kit. Hopefully the spacers have reliefs so you can get the old bearings out.
And lastly figure will grab a spare #1812002 hanger for $50. I think the Wheels Manufacturing 587 has been sold out for months so not sure of any cheaper options.
Keep your pivots running smooth with a replacement bearing kit.
bikes.com
Rocky Mountain dual suspension frames are equipped with cartridge bearings in the rear shock eyelet, allowing for better small-bump compliance. These bearings are carried by cups that have a very firm press fit into the shock shaft. The bearing eyelet tool allows you to remove the cups quickly...
bikes.com
If you're looking to keep your rear suspension running as smooth as possible this kit is for you.
bikes.com
Keep your shifting crisp and precise with a perfectly align hanger.
bikes.com
With that figure will buy whatever seals, wipers, o-rings/rebuild kit and such needed for fork and shock and should have everything needed. Maybe headset bearings, but I think just clean and relube be fine. If pivot bearings are ok I will do same as have a parts washer that I'm dying to use as I bought it like 5 years ago.
Just wanted to post before purchase in case anyone has any insight. I have only been doing "real" MTB for a year and other then rebuild/converting RM ETSX to 1x12 ten years ago (to ride on roads cause lame) I have not done much bike work, but I am capable and wanting to do it myself, mainly because I am cheap.
Any advise appreciated.