Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70: Full Review

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70, a bike that's been making waves in the full-suspension XC and trail riding scene. If you're considering a new ride that blends cross-country efficiency with trail-ready capability, you’ve come to the right place. We'll break down everything from its frame design and suspension setup to its components and overall performance. By the end of this review, you'll have a solid understanding of whether the Element C70 is the right bike for your needs. So, let's get started and explore what makes this bike tick!

Overview of the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70

The Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 is designed as a versatile machine, aimed squarely at riders who want a bike that can handle both fast-paced cross-country loops and more technical trail riding. It's built around a lightweight carbon fiber frame, which immediately signals its intentions for speed and efficiency. But don't let its racy demeanor fool you; the Element C70 also packs in enough travel and modern geometry to tackle challenging terrain with confidence. The Element C70 is more than just a cross-country bike; it’s a versatile trail companion. Rocky Mountain has created a machine that balances pedaling efficiency with downhill capability, making it suitable for a wide range of riding styles and terrains. Whether you're a seasoned racer looking for an edge or a weekend warrior seeking adventure, the Element C70 is designed to deliver a thrilling and capable ride. The heart of the Element C70 is its carefully crafted carbon fiber frame. Rocky Mountain has employed advanced carbon layup techniques to achieve a frame that is both lightweight and incredibly stiff. This stiffness translates to efficient power transfer when you're hammering on the pedals, ensuring that every ounce of effort propels you forward. The frame also incorporates modern geometry, featuring a slacker head tube angle and a longer reach. These design elements contribute to improved stability and control, especially when descending steep and technical trails. The frame's internal cable routing not only enhances its sleek appearance but also protects the cables from dirt and debris, ensuring smooth and reliable shifting and braking performance. Attention to detail is evident throughout the frame's design, from the integrated chainstay protection to the meticulously sculpted lines that enhance its overall aesthetic appeal. The result is a frame that is both functional and visually stunning, reflecting Rocky Mountain's commitment to quality and performance. The Element C70's suspension system is designed to provide a balanced and controlled ride feel, whether you're climbing, descending, or navigating technical terrain. With 120mm of travel front and rear, the Element C70 strikes a sweet spot between cross-country efficiency and trail-riding capability. The suspension kinematics are carefully tuned to provide a supportive platform for pedaling, minimizing unwanted bobbing and ensuring efficient power transfer. At the same time, the suspension is plush and responsive, soaking up bumps and maintaining traction on rough terrain. The Element C70's suspension system is designed to inspire confidence and control, allowing you to push your limits and tackle challenging trails with ease.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 stand out. This bike boasts a range of high-quality components and thoughtful design features that contribute to its exceptional performance.

  • Frame: The foundation of the Element C70 is its Smoothwall Carbon frame. This carbon layup is designed to optimize stiffness and weight, providing an efficient and responsive ride. The frame also features internal cable routing for a clean look and added protection from the elements.
  • Suspension: The Element C70 is equipped with 120mm of travel both in the front and rear, providing a balanced feel for both climbing and descending. A Fox Float 34 Performance Elite fork handles the front suspension, while a Fox Float DPS Performance Elite shock controls the rear. This combination offers excellent adjustability and performance.
  • Drivetrain: The bike utilizes a Shimano XT drivetrain, known for its reliability and smooth shifting. The 1x12 setup provides a wide gear range, making it suitable for various terrains. The Shimano XT crankset and cassette ensure efficient power transfer and durability.
  • Brakes: Shimano XT brakes provide powerful and consistent stopping power. These brakes are known for their modulation and reliability, giving riders confidence in all conditions. The 180mm front and 160mm rear rotors offer ample stopping force.
  • Wheels: The Element C70 rolls on Race Face AR 27 rims laced to Shimano hubs. This wheelset strikes a balance between weight and durability, making it suitable for both racing and trail riding. The 27mm internal width provides good support for wider tires.
  • Tires: Maxxis Rekon tires come stock on the Element C70. These tires are a popular choice for XC and trail riding, offering a good balance of rolling speed and traction. The EXO casing adds durability without sacrificing weight.
  • Components: The cockpit features a Race Face Turbine R handlebar and stem, providing a comfortable and responsive feel. A Rocky Mountain SL seatpost and Selle Italia SLR Boost saddle round out the components, offering both comfort and performance. The Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 isn’t just about high-end components; it’s about how these components work together to create a harmonious riding experience. The frame's carbon construction provides a stiff and responsive platform, while the suspension soaks up bumps and maintains traction. The Shimano XT drivetrain delivers smooth and reliable shifting, and the brakes offer confident stopping power. The wheels and tires provide a balance of speed and grip, making the Element C70 a versatile and capable machine. Rocky Mountain has paid close attention to detail in the design and specification of the Element C70, ensuring that every component contributes to its overall performance. Whether you're climbing steep hills, bombing down technical descents, or cruising along flowy trails, the Element C70 is designed to deliver a thrilling and rewarding ride.

Riding Experience

Alright, let’s talk about what it’s actually like to ride the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70. This is where the rubber meets the road, or in this case, where the tires meet the trail. The Element C70 is designed to be a versatile machine, and its riding experience reflects that versatility. One of the first things you'll notice about the Element C70 is its efficient pedaling. The stiff carbon frame and carefully tuned suspension kinematics make it a capable climber. Whether you're tackling steep, technical ascents or grinding out long, sustained climbs, the Element C70 feels efficient and responsive. The suspension remains composed under pedaling forces, minimizing unwanted bobbing and ensuring that your energy is transferred directly into forward motion. The bike's lightweight construction further enhances its climbing prowess, making it easy to tackle challenging climbs with confidence. But the Element C70 isn't just a one-trick pony. It's also a capable descender, thanks to its modern geometry and well-balanced suspension. The slacker head tube angle and longer reach provide stability and control on steep, technical trails. The 120mm of travel front and rear soaks up bumps and maintains traction, allowing you to confidently navigate challenging terrain. The bike's balanced suspension provides a predictable and controlled ride feel, inspiring confidence and allowing you to push your limits. The Element C70 feels planted and stable at high speeds, yet remains nimble and responsive in tight, twisty sections. The bike's overall handling is intuitive and confidence-inspiring, making it easy to adapt to different trail conditions and riding styles. Whether you're carving through berms, navigating rock gardens, or launching off jumps, the Element C70 delivers a fun and engaging riding experience. The Element C70 is a bike that rewards skilled riders while remaining accessible to those who are still developing their skills. It's a bike that encourages you to push your limits and explore new terrain, while providing a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a weekend warrior, the Element C70 is designed to deliver a thrilling and rewarding riding experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70:

Pros:

  • Lightweight and Efficient: The carbon frame makes it a breeze to climb and accelerate.
  • Versatile Suspension: 120mm of travel is perfect for both XC and trail riding.
  • High-Quality Components: Shimano XT drivetrain and brakes offer reliability and performance.
  • Modern Geometry: Provides a stable and confident ride on technical trails.
  • Clean Aesthetics: Internal cable routing and sleek design make it a head-turner.

Cons:

  • Price: Carbon bikes come with a premium price tag.
  • Tire Choice: The Maxxis Rekon tires might not be ideal for very muddy conditions. Consider swapping if you frequently ride in those conditions.
  • Travel: While 120mm is versatile, some riders might prefer more travel for aggressive trail riding. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 is a well-rounded and capable bike that excels in a variety of riding conditions. Its combination of lightweight construction, efficient pedaling, and confident handling make it a top choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're racing cross-country, exploring new trails, or just enjoying a casual ride with friends, the Element C70 is designed to deliver a fun and rewarding experience.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final word on the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70? This bike is a fantastic option for riders seeking a versatile and high-performing machine. It’s lightweight, efficient, and capable, making it suitable for a wide range of riding styles and terrains. If you're in the market for a bike that can handle both cross-country loops and more technical trail riding, the Element C70 is definitely worth considering. The Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 stands out as a versatile and high-performing bike that caters to a wide range of riders. Whether you're a seasoned racer looking for an edge or a weekend warrior seeking adventure, the Element C70 is designed to deliver a thrilling and rewarding ride. Its combination of lightweight construction, efficient pedaling, and confident handling make it a top choice for those who want a bike that can do it all. While it may come with a premium price tag, the Element C70's exceptional performance and quality components make it a worthwhile investment. If you're looking for a bike that can tackle both cross-country loops and technical trails with ease, the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 is definitely worth considering. Its well-rounded capabilities and refined design make it a standout choice in the world of full-suspension mountain bikes. In conclusion, the Rocky Mountain Element 2022 C70 is more than just a bike; it's a versatile tool that can help you explore new trails, push your limits, and enjoy the ride. Its combination of lightweight construction, efficient pedaling, and confident handling make it a top choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. So, if you're looking for a bike that can handle both cross-country loops and technical trails with ease, the Element C70 is definitely worth considering. You won't be disappointed.