The Canadian flagship, the Element, was put on big wheels last year. Although the version with a carbon frame is already in the starting blocks, the aluminium model still rolled into the BIKE lab for this test. The chassis weighs just under a kilo more than the Cannondale competitor. However, with a lighter fork and wheels, the bike fights its way back into the green zone. The importer tuned the weight of the tubeless-ready wheels with latex milk, which is included with every bike. Speaking of tyres: Rocky recently changed the specification from Maxxis to Conti. The X-King tyres are a good choice for the range of use. The shock needs a lot of pressure, 200 PSI at 80 kilos and 30 per cent sag, the rear bobs a little on the climbs and doesn't fully utilise the travel. This sporty impression is also reinforced by the riding position. The cockpit is low, you sit stretched out, so you need a firm hand on the downhill. The short wheelbase almost makes you forget that you are sitting on a 29er, the bike steers so agilely.
ConclusionThe Element remains what it always was in 29 inches: an agile race bike for marathons. We are looking forward to testing the carbon version.
PLUS Riding characteristics, suitable gear ratio
MINUS Heavy chassis, little tyre clearance at the rear
