Altitude Carbon 50

The Altitude lineup spans five builds, split between carbon and alloy frames. Carbon models feature the PenaltyBox 2.0 downtube storage, which includes a secure latch and a hidden compartment for a tracking device. Across the range, Rocky Mountain equips the bike for immediate enduro racing. Most builds, including the Carbon 70 and Alloy 70 Coil, ship with heavy-duty Maxxis tires—typically a DoubleDown rear and EXO+ front—paired with pre-installed CushCore Trail inserts. This aggressive rubber specification adds weight but saves buyers from needing immediate durability upgrades.

The Carbon 70 relies on a RockShox ZEB Select+ fork and Vivid Select+ air shock, paired with a SRAM GX Eagle Transmission and Maven Bronze brakes. Alternatively, the Alloy 70 Coil opts for Fox Factory suspension, featuring a 38 fork and DHX2 coil shock, driven by a Shimano XT drivetrain. While the suspension and drivetrain choices are widely praised for their performance, reviewers frequently noted that the stock Race Face AR 30 alloy rims are prone to denting under heavy impacts, and the DT Swiss 370 hubs spec'd on several mid-tier builds offer notably slow engagement.

Reviewers consistently characterize the Altitude as a gravity-focused sled that excels at speed but demands an active pilot. The LC2R suspension earns widespread praise for its exceptional traction and bump absorption, with one tester noting it acts as a "magic eraser" (YouTube) that smooths out harsh terrain and forgives poor line choices. The low-slung shock placement translates to a highly stable ride, allowing the bike to track predictably through rough, off-camber sections.

However, this stability comes at the expense of low-speed agility. Testers found that the bike's length and planted nature mean it "requires great physical effort to flick the rear end around tight corners" (Enduro MTB). It prefers wide radiuses and high velocities, feeling somewhat sluggish on flatter, mellower trails. Climbing performance is generally viewed as efficient for the category, with the active suspension providing relentless grip on technical ascents, though some riders noted noticeable pedal bob when leaving the shock fully open.

While the ride quality is highly regarded, several reviewers pointed out minor hardware frustrations. A recurring issue on early production models was a main pivot bolt that loosened, which requires removing the crankset to tighten. Additionally, multiple testers experienced a "baffling" (PinkBike) rattle from the stock dropper post or internal cables, which detracted from an otherwise composed ride.