Rocky Mountain Element Downcountry Custom Build Review

The Rocky Mountain Element is likely my favorite bike ever. It makes me a better all-around rider, and here's why:

Way back in the day, say 2012 or so, I dreamed about a short-travel XC bike with the build spec and capability to absolutely smash all the advanced downhill and freeride lines that I love to ride. Fast forward a decade, and Rocky Mountain have done it perfectly. A bike that's light, nimble, fun to ride, but robust enough and with geometry slack enough to really feel at home in aggressive terrain. It's encouraged me to shuttle less and climb more, and even has me chasing uphill KOM's as well as the downhill ones.

So here's my build. It's a little unorthadox (the suspension, drivetrain and brakes are all from the Enduro world) but it's exactly what I want to ride on the type of trails I enjoy most.

Build Spec:

2023 Rocky Mountain Element C90 frame
Rockshox Lyrik Ultimate fork, 140mm
Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock, 190x45, H compression tune, linear rebound.
Rockshox Reverb AXS wireless dropper post, 170mm
Zipp 1Zero HiTop SW wheels
SRAM XXSL Cassette and chain
SRAM XX crankset
SRAM GX/XXSL transmission derailleur
SRAM Code stealth brakes, 200mm HS2 Rotors
OneUp ebar
Maxxis EXO+ tires, varying tread patterns.

As always, thanks for watching, and drop any questions or comments below!