Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 Review
- Price: $2299
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: WTB Trail Boss Comp 27.5 x 2.4
- Gear: 1×11
What we like about it: The unique RIED-9 setup enables the bike’s geometry and suspension to fit your body size better.
What we don’t like about it: The color may not match the needs of some riders.
Rating: (4.7/5)
A friend of mine who enjoys trail riding recommended the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 to me. He told me it’s an exceptional full-suspension trail bike.
He had a great experience riding it, so I decided to find the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 and test it out myself. I had high expectations for its performance.
In the following analysis, we will examine the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10.
Additionally, we will compare it to several other models in the latter part of this article. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
To test this full-suspension trail bike thoroughly, I purchased a plane ticket and booked a hotel through IHG to visit Andalo ZONE.
In Andalo ZONE, I chose the Margone trail. It spans 1.3 miles with an elevation drop of 1836FT. It starts with a narrow path in the middle of a grassland, covered with loose rocks, before transitioning into gravel and dirt roads in the forest. The route has various fallen leaves and branches, steep slopes, and sharp turns.
Trail Riding
I rode the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 on the grassy descents, and although the WTB Trail Boss Comp tires may not be the best for a bike in this price range, they still performed admirably.
The WTB standardized tubeless system, TCS, with SG2 puncture protection, provided full coverage for the tires, and I had no concerns about getting a flat tire on the gravel road.
During downhill sections, the Rocky Mountain Lock On Light grips helped me firmly hold onto the Rocky Mountain AM handlebar.
The pattern on the surface of the Rocky Mountain Lock On Light grips provided excellent shock absorption, ensuring I didn’t lose my grip while riding on rough terrain.
Additionally, with 140mm of rear travel and 150mm of front travel, the suspension performed impressively, and I didn’t experience excessive jolting during the ride.
On the uphill sections, I appreciated the bike’s excellent climbing ability. I adjusted the Shimano Deore 11spd to the lowest gear ratio, allowing me to exert the least effort for maximum power, enabling me to efficiently distribute my energy during long stretches.
Is that all?
As I rode along the winding road, relying on my extensive riding experience, I skillfully maneuvered the Rocky Mountain AM Handlebar. I found the optimal points of power transfer at every turn, allowing me to execute smooth and graceful cornering. If I encountered any dangers, I could rely on the Shimano MT200 2 Piston Hydraulic Disc brakes for timely and effective stopping power.
Furthermore, this bike is equipped with an outstanding WTB Volt saddle. This saddle is designed for speed and comfort, featuring a wave-shaped profile that provides excellent pelvic support and optimal comfort.
Based on my years of experience, this type of saddle is more suitable for riders who prefer a specific seated position while pedaling.
Moreover, this bike features the FORM™ Alloy tubing, which uses high-quality materials to ensure the strength of the frame.
I had complete confidence in the frame’s durability during descents, encounters with rough terrain, and impacts with rocks. It provided me with a sense of assurance.
Specification
It is an exceptional full-suspension trail bike with 140mm of rear travel and 150mm of front travel, providing outstanding suspension performance without excessive jolting for the rider.
It is equipped with a Shimano Deore 11spd rear derailleur, offering smooth gear shifting and allowing riders to adjust their speed effortlessly according to the terrain.
Furthermore, this bike features outstanding WTB Trail Boss Comp tires, which provide excellent traction and reduce rolling resistance.
They also come with SG2 puncture protection, effectively minimizing the risk of flat tires and ensuring rider safety.
Video (Related Videos)
Other Versions
After conducting several tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is an excellent hardtail mountain bike.
However, many riders have specific performance or component requirements, so we found similar bikes for further investigation.
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 30
The Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 is slightly heavier than the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 30, resulting in slightly more resistance during rides.
However, the Thunderbolt Alloy 30 features a Shimano Deore 12spd rear derailleur, providing smoother gear shifting and a wider range of gears compared to the Shimano Deore 11spd rear derailleur on the Thunderbolt Alloy 10.
Additionally, the Thunderbolt Alloy 30 is equipped with the RockShox Recon Gold RL, while the Thunderbolt Alloy 10 comes with the RockShox Recon Silver RL.
The Gold variant features the soloair spring system, eliminating unstable pressure balance, while the Silver variant offers poploc compatibility, allowing riders to adjust compression remotely using a poploc lever.
In conclusion, if you prefer a lighter bike, I would recommend the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 30. If you value excellent poploc compatibility, the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 would be your best choice.
What do we like about it?
- Riders can adjust the position of the RIED-9, allowing the geometry and suspension to better fit their body size.
- The Smoothlink suspension is highly efficient and responsive during riding and gear shifting.
- The FORM™ tubing uses high-quality materials to ensure strength and ride quality.
- Excellent climbing ability.
What don’t we like about it?
- The color may not meet the needs of some riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- What are the TRAVEL specs for this bike?
It is equipped with 140mm of rear travel and 150mm of front travel.
- What is the braking system of this bike?
It has Shimano MT200 2 Piston hydraulic disc brakes.
- Does this bike have dropper seats?
Yes, it comes with a dropper seatpost.
Specs
Build
| Frame | FORM™ Alloy. Full Sealed Cartridge Bearings. Press Fit BB92. Internal Cable Routing. 2-Bolt ISCG05 Tabs. RIDE-9™ Adjustable Geometry + Suspension Rate FORM™ Alloy Rear TriangleBB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit |
| Fork | RockShox Recon Silver RL 150mm | 37mm Offset |
| Rear Shock | RockShox Deluxe Select+ | Sealed Bearing Eyelet | 25x8mm F Hardware | 210x55mm | Size-Specific tune in FAQ |
| Bottom Bracket | Rocky Mountain Sealed BB92 – Shimano Compatible |
| Headset | FSA Orbit NO.57E | 36°x45° Bearings | 30.2mm x 41mm x 7.1mm Upper | 40mm x 51.8mm x 7.5mm Lower | 1.5″ Crown Race |
| Stem | Rocky Mountain 31.8 AM | 5° Rise | All Sizes = 40mm |
| Handlebar | Rocky Mountain AM | 780mm Width | 25mm Rise | 9° Backsweep | 5° Upsweep | 31.8mm Clamp |
| Saddle | WTB Volt | Steel Rails | 142mm Width |
| Seatpost | Rocky Mountain Toonie Drop Composite 30.9mm | XS – SM = 125mm | MD – LG = 150mm | XL = 170mm |
| Grips | Rocky Mountain Lock On Light |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Deore 11spd |
| Crank | Rocky Mountain Microdrive 2 PC | 32T | 24mm Spindle | 170mm Crank Length |
| Shifters | Shimano Deore 11spd |
| Cassette | Shimano Deore 11-51T 11spd |
| Chain | KMC X11-1 |
| Brakes | Shimano MT200 2 Piston | Resin Pads | RT30 180mm F Rotor | RT30 180mm R Rotor |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB ST i30 TCS 2.0 Tubeless | Tubeless Compatible | 32H |
| Spokes | 2.0 Stainless |
| Front Hub | Shimano MT410 | 15mm Boost |
| Rear Hub | Shimano MT400 Boost 148mm | RMB Axle | 163mm x 12mm x 1.5mm |
| Tires | F: WTB Trail Boss Comp 27.5 x 2.4 // R: WTB Trail Boss Comp 27.5 x 2.4 |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Giant Stance 29 1 | Click View | Maxxis Forekaster 29×2.35 | 1×12 | Aluminum | SRAM SX Eagle |
| 2023 Norco Fluid FS A4 | Click View | Goodyear Newton 2.4″ | 1×11 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore,FSA |
| 2023 CUBE STEREO ONE22 HPC TM 29 | Click View | Maxxis Ardent 29″ x 2.4″ | 1×12 | Carbon | SRAM GX Eagle,NX Eagle |
| 2023 Diamondback Release 29 2 | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF 29×2.3″ | 1×12 | Aluminum | Shimano SLX |
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 vs Giant Stance 29 1
The Giant Stance 29 1 features 29″ wheels, which provide better rolling capabilities compared to the 27.5″ wheels of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10, offering improved traction.
However, it is less agile than the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10. Additionally, the Giant Stance 29 1 is equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain, offering very smooth gear shifting.
Furthermore, the Giant Stance 29 1 has only 130mm of front travel and 120mm of rear travel, which is less suspension travel compared to the 150mm front and 140mm rear travel of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10.
Therefore, if you prioritize superior suspension performance, the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 would better meet your needs. If you value smoother gear shifting and more agile wheels, the Giant Stance 29 1 would be more suitable for you.
Learn More: Is Giant Stance 29 2 Worth Buying? [ Review]
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 vs 2023 Norco Fluid FS A4
The Norco Fluid FS A4 features 140mm of front travel and 130mm of rear travel, providing a slightly weaker suspension performance.
Its 29″ wheels offer excellent traction and roll-over capabilities, but they are less agile compared to the 27.5″ wheels equipped on the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10.
Additionally, the Norco Fluid FS A4 comes with VP Nylon Flat Pedals, making it convenient for riders to purchase without the need to find suitable pedals separately.
In summary, if you prefer a bike that includes all the necessary components without the need for additional purchases, the Norco Fluid FS A4 is a great choice.
However, if you prioritize stronger suspension performance, the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 would better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is 2023 Norco Fluid FS A4 Splendid? – [2023 Norco Fluid FS A4 Review]
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 vs 2023 CUBE STEREO ONE22 HPC TM 29
The Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 weighs 33.3 lbs, which is heavier than the 29.8 lbs weight of the CUBE STEREO ONE22 HPC TM 29. A heavier bike increases riding resistance, causing more trouble and fatigue for the rider.
Additionally, the CUBE STEREO ONE22 HPC TM 29 features a carbon frame that is lighter and allows for faster riding speeds.
However, it is more prone to breakage when subjected to side impacts. The aluminum frame of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10, on the other hand, is more durable.
Therefore, if you prefer a lighter bike, I would recommend the CUBE STEREO ONE22 HPC TM 29. If you prioritize a sturdier bike, the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 would be the better choice.
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 vs 2023 Diamondback Release 29 2
The Diamondback Release 29 2 has a higher price tag. It is $1100 more expensive than the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10. It features 29″ wheels for better traction and a 1×12 drivetrain, providing smoother shifting and a wider gear range.
However, its 140mm front travel and 130mm rear travel offer less suspension travel compared to the 150mm front travel and 140mm rear travel of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10.
Furthermore, the Diamondback Release 29 2 has a stack/reach ratio of 1.35, which is higher than the ratio(1.3) of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10, offering better stretchability and a more comfortable riding experience.
If you prioritize comfort, the Diamondback Release 29 2 would better suit your needs. If you desire better suspension performance, the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10 would be the preferred choice.
Learn More: Is Diamondback Atroz 2 Worth Buying? [2022 Diamondback Atroz 2]
Summary
This is our review of the Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt Alloy 10. It is an excellent full-suspension mountain bike that delivers a remarkable riding experience on forest trails. Taking all factors into account, we give it a high rating of 4.7.
If you’d like to learn more about bicycles, feel free to check out our related tests.
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