Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 Review
- Price: $7499
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: Maxxis Assegai 2.5
- Gear: 1×12
What we like about it: The focus on enduro geometry, catering to most riders participating in enduro.
What we don’t like about it: The high cost may not be suitable for some riders.
Rating: (4.9/5)
A friend of mine recently got into endurance cycling. He kept telling me about challenging his limits and wanting a full-suspension endurance mountain bike that suits him perfectly. Wanting to help him out, I came across the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70. I’m excited about how this bike will perform and hope it will be a great fit for my friend.
Below, we analyze the riding experience, main features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70. In the latter part of this article, we also compare it to several other bike models. If you want to know more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
To better test this full-suspension endurance bike, I booked a flight and hotel through IHG and went to the outskirts of Sacramento. The route was a long mountain road with not too steep inclines, but both uphill and downhill sections were quite lengthy, with sharp bends.
Off-Road Riding
With a gentle breeze accompanying me, I began my ride. I stood up, dropped the seat using the dropper, pedaled quickly to accelerate, and avoided hitting my legs on the seat. Uphill, I did the same, adjusting the Shimano XT Rear Derailleur to the smallest gear ratio, which allowed me to exert less effort and gain more power. I changed gear ratios accordingly on different sections, helping me distribute my energy more effectively throughout the ride.
During downhill descents, the ODI Elite Pro Lock-On grips were excellent, helping me tightly grip the Rocky Mountain AM handlebar. Despite some bumps on the mountain road, the 160mm rear travel and 170mm front travel provided great shock absorption.
The ODI Elite Pro Lock-On grips also offered exceptional grip and dampening effects, ensuring I didn’t lose my grip during frequent vibrations.
When riding at high speeds, maintaining speed was crucial. This is where the Shimano XT Trail 4 Piston Brakes came into play, allowing me to decelerate and stop quickly, ensuring my safety.
Then, when navigating consecutive bends, I controlled the Rocky Mountain AM handlebar and used my body’s center of gravity to lean and steer continuously.
Finding the best points for exerting force at each entry point of a bend allowed me to skillfully complete each one with confidence. This bike gave me a sense of assurance in my abilities.
Is that all?
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 has different tire sizes for the front and rear wheels. The front wheel is equipped with Maxxis Assegai 2.5, made of 3C MaxxGrip material for excellent traction.
As the front wheel, it pairs well with the faster-rolling Maxxis Minion DHR II 2.4 for the rear wheel. The Maxxis Minion DHR II 2.4 features a tilted leading edge on the central tire surface to enhance acceleration. The bike rides fast and offers timely braking. I could control the bike very well.
In addition, the WTB Volt Race 142 saddle with its ultra-fiber cover and leather look is aesthetically pleasing and has antimicrobial properties from synthetic materials. It fully supports my buttocks, and the recessed middle section alleviates pressure on sensitive areas, providing me with a comfortable ride.
Specifications
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 is an exceptional full-suspension enduro bike. It features a lightweight SMOOTHWALL™ Carbon frame and a Fox 38 Float EVOL GRIP2 Performance Elite Series fork, providing 160mm of rear travel and 170mm of front travel for effective shock absorption.
In addition, this bike is equipped with ODI Elite Pro Lock-On grips, designed ergonomically to fit perfectly with my hands and handlebar. The variable knurl pattern alternates from smooth to sharp textures, offering a strong grip without irritating my hands.
Other Versions
After undergoing numerous tests, our understanding of this bike has become more profound. It is an outstanding hardtail mountain bike.
However, many riders have their performance requirements or preferences for components. So, we looked into other bikes of the same category for further investigation.
Rocky Mountian Altitude Alloy 30
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Alloy 30 has an aluminum frame, which is very sturdy. On the other hand, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 has a carbon frame, making it lighter. However, the carbon frame is more prone to breaking upon side impacts. But both bikes share the same geometry.
Regarding components, the Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 has higher-grade Shimano XT components compared to the Shimano Deore on the Mountain Altitude Alloy 30. Although both are 1×12-speed drivetrains, the Shimano XT 1×12-speed drivetrain provides smoother shifting.
Therefore, the more budget-friendly Rocky Mountain Altitude Alloy 30 is well-suited for beginners, while the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 is better for experienced riders.
What do we like about it?
- The focused enduro geometry that caters to most endurance riders.
- Five different frame sizes for Altitude, ensuring every rider can find their perfect fit.
- The RIDE-9 adjustment system and 2-position rear axle help riders fine-tune the geometry for better adaptability to the terrain.
- Excellent uphill and downhill capabilities.
What don’t we like about it?
- The expensive price may not be suitable for some riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- What’s the braking system of this bike?
The braking system is the Shimano XT Trail 4 Piston Hydraulic Disc.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are only general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size the best way is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’6″ | SM |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | MD |
| 5’8″ – 6’3″ | LG |
| 6’1″ – 6’6″ | XL |
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 Specs
Build
| Frame | SMOOTHWALL™ Carbon | Full Sealed Cartridge Bearings | Press Fit BB | Internal Cable Routing | 2-Bolt ISCG05 Tabs | RIDE-9™ Adjustable Geometry | 2 Position Axle | 160mm Travel. SMOOTHWALL™ Carbon Rear Triangle BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded Colors: Red / Carbon; Yellow / Blue |
| Fork | Fox 38 Float EVOL GRIP2 Performance Elite Series 170mm | 27.5 = 37mm Offset | 29 = 44mm Offset |
| Rear Shock | Fox Float X2 Performance | Sealed Bearing Eyelet | 25x8mm F Hardware | SM = 210x55mm | MD – LG – XL = 230x60mm | Size-Specific tune in FAQ |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano SM-BBMT500 |
| Headset | FSA Orbit NO.57E | Sealed Stainless 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 35 AM | 5° Rise | All Sizes = 40m |
| Handlebar | Rocky Mountain AM | 780mm Width | 38mm Rise | 9° Backsweep | 5° Upsweep | 35 Clamp |
| Saddle | WTB Volt Race 142 |
| Seatpost | Race Face Turbine R (by Fox) Dropper 30.9mm | SM = 125mm | MD = 150mm | LG = 175mm | XL = 200mm |
| Grips | ODI Elite Pro Lock On |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano XT |
| Crank | Shimano XT | 32T | 24mm Spindle | 170mm Crank Length |
| Shifters | Shimano XT |
| Cassette | Shimano XT 10-51T |
| Chain | Shimano M8100 |
| Brakes | Shimano XT Trail 4 Piston | Metal Pads | F:Shimano RT66 203mm | R:Shimano RT66 180mm |
Wheels
| Rims | Race Face AR 30 | 32H | Tubeless Ready – Tape / Valves Incl |
| Spokes | DT Swiss Competition 2.0/1.8/2.0 |
| Front Hub | Rocky Mountain Sealed Boost 15mm |
| Rear Hub | DT Swiss 370 Boost 148mm | 18T Star-Ratchet |
| Tires | F: Maxxis Assegai 2.5 WT 3C MaxxGrip EXO+ Tubeless Ready // R: Maxxis Minion DHR II 2.4 WT 3C MaxxTerra EXO+ Tubeless Ready |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| 2024 Specialized S-Works Epic EVO LTD | Click View | Specialized Ground Control | 1 x 12 | Carbon | SRAM XX,X01 Eagle AXS |
| Trek Slash 9.8 XT | Click View | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue | 1 x 12 | Carbon | Shimano XT |
| Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF | 1×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM GX Eagle AXS |
| YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX | Click View | MAXXIS ASSEGAI I HINTEN | 1 x 12 | Carbon | SRAM X01 Eagle, Cane Creek |
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 vs 2024 Specialized S-Works Epic EVO LTD
The Specialized S-Works Epic EVO LTD features carbon wheels that are lightweight but not as durable as the aluminum wheels of the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70. Moreover, the Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 offers two different size options for the wheel, providing riders with more choices.
In addition, the Specialized S-Works Epic EVO LTD has 120mm of front travel and 110mm of rear travel. Its suspension performance is slightly weaker compared to the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70, which has 170mm of front travel and 160mm of rear travel. In conclusion, if you prioritize better suspension performance, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 would better suit your needs. However, if you prefer more size options for the wheel, the Specialized S-Works Epic EVO LTD would be a better choice for you.
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 vs Trek Slash 9.8 XT
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 comes with two sizes of aluminum wheels, which are heavier but very sturdy. On the other hand, the Trek Slash 9.8 XT has carbon wheels that are lighter in weight. However, they are more prone to breakage when faced with side impacts. Additionally, the Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 offers two size options for the wheel, providing more choices for riders.
The Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 can reach a speed of 28mph, which is faster than the Trek Slash 9.8 XT’s 26mph. So, if you want to ride faster, I would recommend the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70. If you prefer lighter wheels, the Trek Slash 9.8 XT would be your best choice.
Learn More: Is Trek Slash 9.8 GX Worth Buying? [2022 Trek Slash 9.8 GX review]
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 vs Scott Contessa Genius ST 910
The Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 features 170mm of front travel and 160mm of rear travel. Compared to the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910, which has 160mm of front travel and 150mm of rear travel, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 offers stronger suspension performance.
Additionally, the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 is equipped with a 1×12 Electronic drivetrain, which provides precise shifting with electronic precision and easy maintenance through charging. On the other hand, the Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 comes with a mechanical drivetrain, which offers better serviceability and lower cost.
In conclusion, if you are looking for better suspension performance, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 would be a great fit. If you prefer an electronic drivetrain, the Scott Contessa Genius ST 910 would better suit your needs.
Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 vs YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX
The YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX boasts a stronger 170mm rear travel, providing more robust suspension performance, along with lighter carbon wheels. However, these wheels may not be as durable as the aluminum wheels on the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70. Additionally, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 can achieve higher speeds, reaching up to 28mph.
Furthermore, the YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX has a stack/reach ratio of 1.43, greater than the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70(stack/reach ratio of 1.36). As a result, the former offers more versatility and a more comfortable riding experience. Therefore, if you prefer a more comfortable ride, the YT Industries Capra Launch Edition MX would be a better choice. If you prioritize sturdier wheels, the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70 is a perfect fit.
Summary
This is our full review of the Rocky Mountain Altitude Carbon 70. This is an exceptional full-suspension enduro bike that offers an outstanding riding experience. We have given it a high score of 4.9 based on our review. If you wish to learn more about bicycles, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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