One platform - two different bikes. That's the simple concept behind Rocky Mountain's new carbon Element. With an identical frame but different rocker and shock lengths, the result is a genuine racer (Element RSL) with 95 millimetres of travel or a sporty all-mountain (Element MSL) with 115 millimetres at the rear. But which of the two is the better Element? For an optimal comparison, identical frame heights would have been necessary. Unfortunately, only an 18-inch and a 19-inch bike were available. Despite the larger frame, the RSL frame without shock surprisingly weighs 113 grams less. At 1763 and 1876 grams respectively, both frames are among the lightest on the market and don't need to shy away from comparison with the competition. In terms of stiffness, too, the RSL with an STW value of 35.5 is even at the top of the top race fullys from Bike 2/10
CONCLUSIONOnly uncompromising racers with a hardtail past and a clearly defined range of use should choose the firmer and steeper-angled RSL. Everyone else - including marathon riders, of course - will benefit from the added comfort, the smoother steering angle and the significantly wider overall range of use, without any noticeable disadvantages in terms of propulsion.
Web: www.bikeaction.de
Rocky Mountain Element 70 RSL
Rocky Mountain Element 70 RMSL
Photos: Georg Grieshaber, Daniel Simon
