After multiple seasons aboard a Specialized Stumpjumper Evo, e-commerce specialist Shayne was on the hunt for a new bike. Having also previously spent time aboard a Specialized Enduro, he was intent on finding a bike that combined the best characteristics of both frames. Rocky Mountain’s all-new Altitude immediately caught Shayne’s eye upon release with it's travel and geo numbers falling in line with what he was looking for in a new frame. After just a single demo ride aboard the Altitude, Shayne was sold by the planted yet lively ride quality of Rocky Mountain’s newly redesigned LRC2 suspension. Shayne has carefully curated a selection of the best components from the likes of RockShox, SRAM, Shimano, and TRP to make for a unique custom build.

Bike Details

Frame: Rocky Mountain Altitude

Size: Medium

Shock: RockShox Vivid Air Ultimate RC2T 230 x 60

Fork: RockShox ZEB Ultimate Charger 3.1 - 44mm Offset - 170mm 

Wheels: WAO Triad / Hope Pro 5 / Sapim Double-Butted Spokes

Tires: Maxxis Assegai MG Exo+  2.5” / Specialized Butcher Trail T9 2.4”

Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 cassette, derailleur, chain, and shifter / 165mm Race Face ERA cranks / 32T Race Face ERA chainring 

Pedals: Shimano Saint SPD

Brakes: TRP DH-R EVO / OAK Components TRL levers / TRP S05E 203mm F/R

Seatpost/Saddle: 160mm Bike Yoke Revive 3.0 Silver LTD / WTB Saddle

Cockpit: Deity Racepoint 38mm rise 770mm wide / Deity Copperhead 35mm 

Originally from Santa Cruz, CA. Shayne is no stranger to rowdy terrain and has found that the Altitude comes to life on steeper trails.

What made the new Rocky Mountain Altitude stand out to you when looking for your next bike?

What stood out the most to me was the geo numbers; it is a long-travel enduro bike but has a shorter wheelbase than normal, so still having that maneuverability was appealing. I also like downtube storage, which I mostly use to carry extra water on longer rides with a water pouch.

A combination of Shimano XT and Race Face Era components make up the drivetrain for this build.

How would you describe the ride characteristics of the Altitude? 

This bike feels like a perfect mix between the two previous bikes I’ve ridden, the Specialized Enduro and Stumpjumper EVO. It has that long enduro suspension travel and geometry mixed in with a trail bike feel of a shorter wheelbase, making it easy to snap around but aggressive enough to handle and maintain stability through steep and chunky terrain. 

The Altitude is just as comfortable in the air as it is on the ground.

What type of terrain does this bike feel most at home on? 

It’s easy to forget this is an enduro bike. I wouldn’t say it’s the most playful bike, but it comes to life on almost any terrain. It holds traction well through tight corners and maintains stability at higher speeds and rougher terrain. I would say this is more like a beefed-up trail bike. So far, the most fun I’ve had has been on bigger jumps and steeper trails, especially through the techy sections. It holds traction well. 

Race Face’s carbon Era chainring is one of the more unique components you'll find, blending the lightweight construction of carbon with durable steel teeth to make for a lighter and more durable chainring than an aluminum alternative.

What aspect of bike setup are you most particular about? 

I am most particular about my brakes and suspension setup. They both affect my riding experience the most. Braking is important in maintaining proper speed and being able to know exactly how much power you’re braking with, and I like to be comfortable with my brakes and be able to apply power when I need it. The TRP brakes are great at modulation and have amazing stopping power when I need it. Suspension can completely change the feel of the bike, so I’m very particular on set up there; I typically run it a bit stiffer and with faster rebound for someone my weight. 

Oak levers provide a wider range of adjustability and a more ergonomic lever feel while still delivering the same bite and power TRP DH-R Evo brakes are known for.

How do the aftermarket Oak Levers compare to the stock TRP levers?

The Oak Levers bring the lever closer to the bars, which is beneficial to me as I have short fingers and like to use my second knuckle to brake rather than the first. They also have more of a hook, so the lever feels a lot nicer to pull and grip with one finger.

Build up your own custom Altitude today!

Which component on your bike is your favorite? 

My wheels! I recently switched over to We Are One Traids, and I have noticed a pretty significant difference. They are very supportive and stiff through corners and with any horizontal force. They also provide some flex; I noticed when rolling over small bumps/roots, it made the ride feel a bit smoother, so they also have great vertical flex. 

Equipped with the new Charger 3.1 RC2 damper, the ZEB gives riders exceptional adjustability for the right balance of comfort, control, and speed.

If you could ride your bike anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why? 

Probably New Zealand; I have heard a lot of good things about the riding there, and it seems like a fun place to explore and very different from anything we have here. 

If Shayne isn’t at work, there’s a good chance he’s out doing this.

Are there any future updates/changes you may make to the bike? 

I am pretty fortunate to have everything I want on the bike currently and have no plans to change anything in the future as far as components go. I do plan to add a mini mudguard to the rear to help better protect the shock from mud, dirt, and debris.