2024 Rocky Mountain Element C50 SRAM

The 2024 Rocky Mountain Element C50 SRAM is a high-performance mountain bike designed to excel in cross-country and trail riding. Combining cutting-edge technology, advanced materials, and top-tier components, this bike is engineered to provide exceptional performance, durability, and versatility. Below, we explore the key features and components that make the Element C50 SRAM a standout choice for serious mountain bikers.

Frame and Geometry

The Element C50 SRAM features Rocky Mountain's proprietary SMOOTHWALL™ carbon frame, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This advanced carbon construction ensures optimal stiffness and durability while minimizing weight. The precision crafting of this frame provides a responsive and resilient structure, capable of withstanding the demands of aggressive trail riding. The frame's design is optimized for both climbing efficiency and descending prowess, making it a versatile choice for varied terrains.

One of the standout features of the Element C50 SRAM is the RIDE-4™ adjustable geometry system. This innovative design allows riders to fine-tune the bike's geometry to suit different riding styles and trail conditions. With four distinct settings, adjustments can be made to the head angle, seat angle, and bottom bracket height. This level of customization ensures that the Element C50 can be dialed in for optimal performance, whether tackling steep climbs, fast descents, or technical sections.

Suspension

At the front, the bike is equipped with the RockShox Pike RC fork, providing 130mm of travel. This high-performance fork is designed for aggressive riding, offering excellent shock absorption and stability. The Pike RC features a robust chassis and reliable damping, ensuring precise steering and control even in challenging conditions. Its adjustable settings allow riders to fine-tune the suspension for a smoother ride across varied terrains.

The rear suspension is managed by the Fox Float DPS Performance shock, delivering 160mm of travel. This shock is renowned for its plush performance and adjustability. It features a three-position lever (Open, Medium, Firm) for on-the-fly adjustments, providing consistent performance and control. The Float DPS ensures that the rear wheel remains planted, enhancing traction and control on technical descents and rough trails.

Drivetrain and Brakes

The Element C50 SRAM is outfitted with a complete SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, known for its precision, reliability, and performance. The SRAM GX Eagle shifter and derailleur offer smooth and accurate shifting across the entire 12-speed range. This combination ensures that riders can effortlessly navigate through the gears, maintaining optimal cadence and power output on any terrain.

The bike features a SRAM GX Eagle cassette with a 10-51T range, offering a wide range of gears for tackling various terrains. The large 51T cog provides ample low-end gearing for steep climbs, while the 10T cog allows for high-speed descents. Paired with the SRAM GX Eagle chain, this drivetrain setup ensures efficient power transfer, smooth shifting, and long-lasting performance.

Braking is handled by SRAM G2 R 4-piston brakes, known for their exceptional stopping power and modulation. These brakes provide consistent and reliable performance, ensuring that riders can confidently tackle steep descents and technical sections. The 4-piston calipers offer increased braking force, while the ergonomic levers provide comfortable and precise control.

Wheels and Tires

The Element C50 SRAM rolls on WTB ST Light i27 TCS 2.0 tubeless rims, which offer a perfect balance of strength and weight. These rims are designed to handle the rigors of aggressive trail riding while providing the benefits of tubeless technology, such as reduced weight and improved puncture resistance.

The front hub is a Rocky Mountain SL Sealed Boost 15mm, and the rear hub is a DT Swiss 370 Boost 148mm with an 18T Star-Ratchet. These hubs ensure reliable and smooth performance, with consistent engagement and power transfer. The DT Swiss Competition 2.0/1.8/2.0 spokes further enhance the wheels' durability and strength.

The bike is equipped with Maxxis Rekon 2.4 WT EXO front and rear tires. These tires are designed for trail riding, offering excellent traction and control. The EXO protection adds durability, making the tires resistant to punctures and tears. The wide trail (WT) casing ensures a better fit on wide rims, providing improved stability and handling.

Cockpit and Controls

The bike features an X Fusion Manic Composite dropper post with a 30.9mm diameter, allowing riders to quickly adjust their saddle height on the fly. This feature is particularly useful for transitioning between climbs and descents, ensuring that riders can maintain an optimal riding position at all times. The dropper post enhances overall bike handling and control, making it a valuable addition for serious mountain bikers.

The FSA Orbit NO.57E headset ensures smooth and precise steering. Paired with the Rocky Mountain 35 XC stem, this setup provides a solid and reliable connection between the frame and the handlebar, enhancing overall control and stability.

The bike features a Rocky Mountain AM Carbon handlebar, measuring 35x780mm, offering excellent control and comfort. The wide handlebar provides stability and leverage, making it easier to handle the bike on technical trails. The ODI Elite Pro grips provide a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue and ensuring that riders can maintain control during long rides.

The WTB Silverado Race 142 saddle offers comfort and support, making long rides more enjoyable. Its design ensures proper weight distribution and reduces pressure points, enhancing overall comfort. The chromoly rails provide durability and strength without adding significant weight.

Conclusion

The 2024 Rocky Mountain Element C50 SRAM is a high-performance mountain bike designed for riders who demand the best. Its combination of advanced carbon construction, premium suspension components, reliable drivetrain, and robust braking system makes it an exceptional choice for tackling a variety of trails. Whether you're climbing steep hills, descending technical terrain, or cruising along singletrack, the Element C50 SRAM offers the performance and reliability needed to excel in any condition. With its top-tier components and meticulous attention to detail, this bike is built to provide an unparalleled riding experience for mountain biking enthusiasts.