I have an affinity for bikes that mount the shock low on the frame. I’m not sure how much dropping the center of gravity legitimately affects how a bike handles, but it sure is easy on the eyes. So, as you can imagine, I was immediately a fan when I saw the new Rocky Mountain Altitude frame redesign. What’s more, the high-end C90 Rally Shimano build makes this an abundantly plush machine.  

Of course, the Altitude’s voracious appetite for speed is more important than its good looks. I was impressed by how well the bike climbed. Despite being burdened by thick Maxxis Double Down casing tires, CushCore tire inserts, and a front tire with Maxxis’ MaxxGrip compound, the Altitude scooted around efficiently. This left me wondering just how efficiently it would climb with a more trail-oriented tire setup. 

With the 77-degree seat tube angle in the slackest setting, you’re in the perfect position to pedal your way up the steepest climbs. The active rear suspension curve and limited perceivable anti-squat didn’t encourage me to climb out of the saddle. Still, I felt powerful, stable, and comfortable while motoring in the saddle. With the long, stable 450-millimeter chainstay and forward seat position, the Altitude provides tons of confidence on tricky, steep climbs.

More important is the way the bike handles descents. I rode it on steep, slow tech trails as well as fast and chunky trails. I found the Altitude doesn’t really come alive until you hit a kind of steady, relatively fast speed. Riding slow tech felt a bit disjointed as it was hard for me to feel confident putting the wheels where I wanted them. 

I enjoyed the attention to detail and the build, and I’m confident that it can only be the result of a genuinely rider-driven company. The C90 Rally build came with Maxxis Double Down casing tires, a DHRII rear tire, and a MaxxGrip Assegai up front. Further, they spec Race Face ARC Carbon 31 wheels with CushCore tire inserts. The new PenaltyBox 2.0 downtube storage compartment is well-designed and features a secure door.

The LC2R suspension system keeps the weight low in the frame as the main pivot rolls around the bottom bracket. My main pivot did come loose during testing, but it only took a few minutes to snug it back up with the provided tool. Finally, the Shimano XTR component spec was a welcome addition for me. Being able to shift down two gears at a time is a treat, and I’ll always have a soft spot for good old cable-actuated shifting. The XTR 9120 brakes are also lightweight powerhouses that I find predictable and trustworthy.

I think the Altitude is perfect for the rider who is looking for stability and confidence. It has the efficiency and positioning to easily get to the top of the mountain and the long wheelbase to get you down in one piece. It comes alive on trails where speed is the priority. I’m confident that it would feel right at home in either a bike park or high-velocity race situations. 

Learn More: https://bikes.com/products/altitude-c90-rally-24