Trail bikes 2023 up to 3400 euros: The Rocky Mountain Element Alloy 50 on test

A look at the equipment list of our reference bike makes you gulp at first. A mix of SLX and XT components for the drivetrain and brakes, Fox Performance suspension and "home-grown" components. For 4500 Euro The Rocky doesn't even reach the level of the Canyon - even if the components themselves are absolutely practical. As soon as you sit in the saddle, however, you no longer waste a thought on the somewhat meagre spec. Although the Element is categorised as a cross-country bike in the Rocky hierarchy, it could confidently be described as the archetype of a trail bike.

The Rocky Mountain Element in practice

The riding position is neither too short nor too stretched. Thanks to the modern seat angle and comfortable reach, you can pedal relaxed towards the summit. The rear suspension with its Ride 4 system works first-class: sensitive and very drive-neutral. The platform lever is easily within reach, but is rarely used. You won't find a more harmonious cockpit than on the Rocky in the test: Odi grips and SLX brake levers feel great in the hand, the stem length and handlebar width seem ideal for the intended use. The head angle is 64.8 degrees in the most downhill orientated setting. Together with the 435 millimetre short chainstays, this results in extremely balanced handling.

The Element masters winding courses just as well as rocky full-throttle descents. The engineers have done a great job with the rear suspension. The Rocky is plush, provides sufficient feedback and has so much pop that you'll be happy to jump over waves and jumps. The filigree aluminium frame with two bottle cage mounts not only offers drinking reserves but also something for the eye. So it's no wonder that the Rocky never rolled under the same bum for long. Everyone wanted to try out the trail bike archetype.

Conclusion on the Rocky Mountain Element Alloy 50 by Stefan Frey, BIKE editor:

With its modern geometry, the Rocky Mountain Element strikes the perfect balance between uphill qualities and downhill performance - a trail bike in its purest form. Only the equipment and ease of maintenance could be better.

Technical data and notes Rocky Mountain Element Alloy 50

Manufacturer information

• Price: 4500 Euro >> available here
• Available from specialised dealers
• Frame material: Aluminium
• Frame size: S, M,L, XL(tested size L, 45 cm)

Measured values

• Weight without pedals: 13.8 kg
• Frame weight without damper: 3075 g
• Weight of wheels: 4796 g
• Handlebar width: 780 mm

Equipment

• ForkFox 34 Float Performance Fit Grip
• DamperFox Float DPS Performance
• Front/rear suspension fork: 130/132 mm
• Crank handleRace Face Aeffect R
• CircuitShimano XT/SLX 1 x 12
• Translation / bandwidth: 32; 10-51 / 510 %
• Brake system / Disc (front / rear)Shimano SLX / 180 mm / 180 mm
• Telescopic support / stroke / ØRocky Mountain Toonie Dropper / 170 mm / 30.9 mm
• ImpellersWTB ST Light i27 TCS 2.0
• TyresMaxxis Rekon; Exo Protection TR 29 x 2.40
• Ease of maintenance: weak

BIKE test rating*: very good - 196 out of 250 points

Further information on the trail bike can be found in the graphics

*The BIKE judgement reflects the laboratory measurements (BIKE laboratory measurement) and the subjective impression of the test riders. The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (250-205 P.), very good (204.75-180 P.), good (179.75-155 P.), satisfactory (154.75-130 P.), with weaknesses (129.75-105 P.), unsatisfactory (104.75-0 P.).