Element Carbon 99

The 2025 Element lineup consists entirely of carbon frames, with no aluminum options available. The range spans three primary builds, starting with the Carbon 30, which features a Marzocchi Z2 fork, Fox Float Performance shock, and a Shimano Deore and XT mixed drivetrain.

The mid-tier Carbon 70 moves to Fox Performance Elite suspension, including a 34 fork with the Grip X damper, and utilizes a SRAM GX Eagle Transmission wireless drivetrain. This build rolls on Race Face ARC 27 alloy rims laced to a DT Swiss 370 rear hub and relies on SRAM Level Bronze four-piston brakes.

At the top of the ladder, the Carbon 99 shifts the bike into a dedicated race focus. It drops the fork travel to 120mm and equips the automated RockShox Flight Attendant suspension system. This premium build includes a SRAM XX Eagle Transmission with an integrated power meter, SRAM Level Ultimate brakes, and DT Swiss XRC 1501 carbon wheels. Across all builds, the frame features fully internal cable routing, a press-fit bottom bracket, and upgraded dual-row seatstay bearings designed to improve long-term durability over the previous generation.

Reviewers consistently praise the Element for balancing cross-country pedaling efficiency with genuine trail capability. The transition to a flex-stay rear triangle yields noticeable benefits on the dirt, providing a firm platform that accelerates quickly. One tester noted that the bike "craves speed even on flat trails" (Bike-test), rewarding riders who pump through rollers and carry momentum. When pointed downhill, the suspension remains active and supportive, leading another reviewer to describe the handling as "slicing and dicing with an old friend" (Theradavist).

Despite its descending prowess, critics point out that the bike still has the travel limitations of an XC platform. Pushing the Element into steep, chunky terrain requires precise line choices, as the "margin for error is small" (Singletracks). Multiple reviewers also noted that the stock Maxxis Rekon tires limit traction in wet or aggressive downhill scenarios, frequently suggesting a swap to heavier-duty rubber for riders leaning into the bike's trail capabilities. Additionally, the SRAM Level brakes specced on several builds drew criticism for fading on extended descents, and the slow engagement of the DT Swiss 370 rear hub on the mid-tier model was a common frustration during technical climbs.