R
Rocky Mountain
In production2003–

Altitude

mtb
01

Origin

The Altitude has been Rocky Mountain's enduro weapon since 2003, but the 2024 model marked a full rethink. The LC2R rear suspension — an idea dusted off from the 2006 Slayer — locates the shock low in the frame, changing the kinematics from the ground up: a high 3-to-1 ratio at the start of travel absorbs chatter, a linear mid-stroke feels supportive on longer compressions, and the final 25mm progressively soaks up big hits. Carbon builds carry PenaltyBox 2.0 — in-frame storage that fits a tool roll and hides an AirTag inside the door.

02

Specifications

Frame
Carbon (SMOOTHWALL) or FORM 6061 alloy; BSA 73mm threaded BB; 12x148mm rear axle; RIDE-4 geometry chip (4 positions) + 10mm chainstay flip chip at dropout — 8 total geometry configurations
Drivetrain
1x12 SRAM Eagle or Shimano Deore depending on build; range C70–Alloy 30 ($3,999–$7,799)
Brakes
Hydraulic disc (brand/spec varies by build)
Wheels
29" standard (SM uses 27.5"; MD/LG/XL can run full 29" or MX mullet via lower-link flip); tubeless-ready
03

The verdict

+Strengths
  • LC2R suspension delivers genuinely supportive mid-stroke with progressive bottom-out protection
  • RIDE-4 + chainstay chip offer 8 geometry configurations for course/condition tuning
  • PenaltyBox 2.0 carbon storage is clever: tool + tracker in one sealed compartment
Weaknesses
  • Complex adjustability can be overwhelming for casual riders
  • Carbon builds command significant premium over alloy
  • SM frame is 27.5" only — limits upgrade path for small riders who want 29"
04

Tags

05

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