Fast uphill. Even faster downhill

The Element was designed to achieve the perfect balancing act between lightweight cross-country climbing ability and technical precision - it's the best of both worlds and then some. Road bike-class climbing efficiency guarantees that oh-so-sweet feeling of hanging off someone. Added stability on fast descents and a moderately aggressive seat tube angle provide a surprising level of confidence on tight singletrack and hairy descents. Light. Stiff. Fast. Fluid. Precise.

The 2021 Thunderbolt and Element platforms were among the shorter travel bikes in our range. The notable differences are the wheel size, travel and ride characteristics. The natural evolution of these platforms was to merge the trail and cross country categories into one platform that allows for efficient and precise riding.

Because smaller riders have different needs than larger riders, we now offer the Element in the Extra Small frame size with two different wheel sizes. This extra-small frame is offered with 27.5-inch wheels to help smaller riders accelerate. It also lowers the bike for a better fit and ride feel. The 2022 Element in size Extra Small has 33 millimeters more stepover height than the 2021 Thunderbolt XS and 56 millimeters more than the 2021 Element in size Small. For riders tall enough for the Small, Medium, Large or Extra Large frame sizes, the Element is available with 29-inch wheels.

One of Rocky Mountain's goals for the new Element was to give the rider more support throughout the travel without sacrificing rear wheel traction. We increased the anti-squat to allow faster acceleration and reduced the progressive end of travel to make it easier to use the full travel. Thanks to these revised kinematics, less pressure and damping power is required in the shock, resulting in a smoother, quieter ride feel.

Details

• The RIDE-4 adjustment system is compact, lightweight and can be used to adjust the geometry with a single Allen key.
• Internal cable routing (carbon models) and large openings (aluminum models)
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• Complete internal cable routing for easy cable and hose management
• Compatible with motorcycle style
• Rattle-free assembly thanks to fixation
• Additional protective elements and chain guide
• Down tube, seat stays and noise-reducing chain stay protection
• Bottle clearance and mounting options
• The upper bottle cages can also be used as accessory holders and offer the option of attaching tools, food and small frame bags
• The lower bottle cages have two positions, allowing you to mount the lower bottle at a greater or lesser distance from the rider depending on the configuration you choose.
• Bottle capacities: XS: one large bottle (710 ml/23 oz), SM: one small bottle (620 ml/21 oz) and one large bottle (710 ml/23 oz), MD - XL: two large bottles (710 ml/23 oz)

Frame profile updates

• Sleek and slim top tube that gives the Element a modern look and puts the focus on steering precision
• Compatible with SRAM UDH derailleur hanger
• Increased bearing life and versatility, double bearings and increased wear resistance
• Increased stiffness and durability at the chainstay/seatstay pivot point
• Shielded bearings at all pivot points, including the lower shock bridge (also compatible with aftermarket shocks)
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• The main pivot is fitted with double seal spacers to prevent water ingress and therefore extend the life of the bearings
• The nut on the main pivot is interchangeable with the one on the Instincts and Altitudes and can therefore accommodate our Canadarm chain guide.

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