Hey mountain biking enthusiasts! Buckle up because we're diving deep into the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50, a bike that's been turning heads and conquering trails. This isn't just any mountain bike; it's a versatile machine designed to handle a wide range of terrain, from technical climbs to exhilarating descents. In this comprehensive review, we'll break down everything you need to know about the Altitude A50, including its specs, performance, pros, and cons. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just getting started, this guide will provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. We'll explore its features, from the suspension system to the components, and discuss what makes this bike stand out in a crowded market. So, grab your helmet, and let's get rolling!

This bike is a blend of trail and enduro capabilities, making it a favorite for riders who enjoy both climbing and descending. Its geometry and suspension are optimized for efficiency and control, allowing you to tackle challenging climbs while providing confidence on fast, technical descents. The Altitude A50 is built around a robust aluminum frame, ensuring durability and reliability for years of riding. Rocky Mountain has a reputation for designing bikes that perform well in various conditions, and the Altitude A50 is no exception. Its design incorporates modern geometry, with a focus on stability and agility. This allows for a comfortable riding position and precise handling. Furthermore, the bike's component spec is carefully selected to provide a balance of performance and value. From the suspension fork to the drivetrain, each part is chosen to enhance the overall riding experience. The Altitude A50 is a testament to Rocky Mountain's commitment to quality and innovation in the mountain bike industry. The bike's versatility extends to its ability to be customized to suit different riding styles and preferences. Riders can adjust the suspension settings, tire pressure, and other components to fine-tune the bike's performance. This level of customization ensures that you can adapt the bike to your specific needs and riding conditions. The Altitude A50 is a perfect choice for those seeking a reliable, high-performing mountain bike. It offers a great balance of features, performance, and value, making it an excellent option for riders of all skill levels. If you're looking for a bike that can handle everything from local trails to challenging mountain adventures, the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 is definitely worth considering.

Unveiling the Specs: What Makes the Altitude A50 Tick?

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What exactly makes the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 a beast on the trails? This section breaks down the key specs and components that contribute to its impressive performance. We'll look at the frame, suspension, drivetrain, and other essential details. Understanding these specs will help you appreciate the bike's capabilities and see why it's a favorite among mountain bikers. So, let's dive into the technical details and explore what makes this bike a worthy contender in the world of mountain biking. Knowing the specifications is crucial for understanding the bike's performance characteristics and suitability for your riding style. Every component plays a vital role in providing a seamless and enjoyable riding experience. Whether it's the frame geometry or the suspension system, each element is carefully designed to work in harmony. This attention to detail is what sets the Altitude A50 apart from other bikes in its class. In the following sections, we will delve into each component, providing a detailed overview of its features and benefits. The goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Altitude A50's capabilities. With a clear understanding of the specifications, you'll be able to make an informed decision about whether this bike is the right fit for your needs. So, let's get started and discover what makes the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 a top-tier mountain bike.

Frame and Geometry

The heart of any mountain bike is its frame, and the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 doesn't disappoint. The frame is constructed from FORM™ alloy, Rocky Mountain's proprietary aluminum blend, known for its strength-to-weight ratio and durability. This alloy ensures the bike can withstand the rigors of aggressive trail riding. The frame geometry is designed with a modern approach, featuring a slack head tube angle and a steep seat tube angle. The slack head tube angle enhances stability on descents, while the steep seat tube angle improves climbing efficiency. The frame also incorporates a smooth and efficient suspension platform. Additionally, the frame includes internal cable routing, giving the bike a clean and sleek look. The geometry provides a comfortable and confident riding position, allowing riders to tackle a variety of terrains. Rocky Mountain carefully designs its frames to optimize both performance and rider comfort. The frame's design also incorporates features such as Boost axle spacing for enhanced stiffness and control. The attention to detail in the frame's construction ensures the Altitude A50 is ready to handle anything you throw its way. The frame's geometry is designed to provide excellent maneuverability, allowing riders to navigate tight trails with ease. The modern design of the frame ensures that the bike is up-to-date with the latest trends in mountain biking. This frame is a key part of what makes the Altitude A50 such a versatile and capable bike.

Suspension System

The suspension system is a crucial element that influences the bike's performance and riding experience. The 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 features a smooth and efficient suspension platform that's designed to absorb bumps and maintain traction on various terrains. The front suspension is handled by a RockShox Pike Select RC fork, offering a generous amount of travel to soak up impacts and provide precise steering control. This fork is known for its reliability and performance. The rear suspension uses a RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT shock, which is designed to provide excellent small-bump compliance and big-hit capability. The suspension system is optimized to balance pedaling efficiency with bump absorption. The bike's suspension platform ensures that you can maintain control and speed, even on the most challenging trails. The combination of the Pike Select RC fork and the Deluxe Select+ RT shock delivers a balanced and capable suspension setup. The suspension system is designed to provide a smooth and controlled ride, regardless of the terrain. The fork and shock work together to ensure that the bike maintains traction, which is crucial for handling corners and technical sections. The Altitude A50's suspension system is a key factor in its overall performance and makes it a great choice for a wide range of riders. The suspension is also adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike's performance to their individual needs and preferences. This adaptability is part of what makes the Altitude A50 such a versatile machine.

Drivetrain and Components

The drivetrain and components of the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 are meticulously selected to provide reliable performance and enhance the overall riding experience. The bike is equipped with a Shimano Deore 1x12 drivetrain, which offers a wide range of gears to handle both climbs and descents. The 1x12 setup simplifies shifting and reduces the risk of chain drops. The Shimano Deore components are known for their durability and smooth shifting performance. The bike also features Shimano MT4100/4200 brakes, which provide excellent stopping power and modulation. These brakes are reliable and capable of handling the demands of trail riding. The components selected for the Altitude A50 strike a good balance between performance and value. The bike also features WTB wheels and tires, which are designed to provide grip and durability. The combination of these components ensures that the bike performs at its best on a variety of trails. The drivetrain's wide gear range allows you to tackle steep climbs and maintain speed on flat sections. The brakes provide confident stopping power, allowing you to control your speed and navigate challenging terrain. The selection of quality components enhances the overall riding experience and contributes to the bike's versatility. This attention to detail is what makes the Altitude A50 a great choice for riders looking for a reliable and high-performing mountain bike. The components are chosen to provide a blend of performance and durability, ensuring that the bike can withstand the rigors of mountain biking.

Ride Impressions: How Does It Perform on the Trail?

So, how does the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 perform when the rubber meets the trail? This section delves into the real-world riding experience, giving you an insider's perspective on how this bike handles various terrains and riding styles. We'll explore its climbing prowess, descending capabilities, and overall handling. This information will help you understand whether the Altitude A50 is the right bike for your riding needs. The following content will cover all aspects of the bike's trail performance, giving you a detailed analysis of its capabilities. This will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Altitude A50's potential. Riders can expect a smooth and controlled experience, whether climbing or descending. The bike is designed to handle a variety of terrain types, from technical climbs to fast, flowing descents. The Altitude A50's handling is a significant factor in its overall appeal, making it a favorite among experienced riders and beginners alike. We will explore how its suspension, geometry, and components work together to deliver a top-notch riding experience. We will also cover how the bike's features translate into practical riding experiences, ensuring that you can assess how well it suits your specific riding style and preferences. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and accurate overview of the bike's trail performance, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision.

Climbing Abilities

When it comes to climbing, the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 holds its own. The steep seat tube angle and efficient suspension platform contribute to excellent pedaling efficiency. This allows you to climb efficiently without wasting energy. The bike's geometry encourages a comfortable and upright riding position, which is beneficial for tackling long climbs. The Shimano Deore 1x12 drivetrain provides a wide range of gears, allowing you to conquer steep ascents with ease. The Altitude A50 is not specifically designed as a dedicated climbing bike, but its climbing performance is more than adequate for most trail riders. The bike's frame stiffness and efficient power transfer make it a capable climber. While it might not be the absolute fastest climber, it provides a balanced and enjoyable climbing experience. The Altitude A50's climbing performance is a testament to its versatile design. It allows riders to climb efficiently without sacrificing downhill capabilities. Its climbing prowess makes it a reliable choice for riders who enjoy both climbing and descending. The bike's climbing abilities are a significant factor in its overall appeal, making it a great choice for various trail types. The combination of geometry, suspension, and drivetrain contributes to the bike's solid climbing performance.

Descending Prowess

Where the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 truly shines is on the descents. The slack head tube angle and capable suspension system work together to provide excellent stability and control. This allows you to confidently navigate technical trails and fast descents. The bike's geometry inspires confidence, allowing you to push your limits and tackle challenging features. The RockShox Pike Select RC fork and Deluxe Select+ RT shock provide excellent bump absorption. The combination of these features makes for a smooth and controlled ride, even on rough terrain. The bike's descending capabilities are enhanced by its quality components and overall design. Whether you're navigating tight switchbacks or bombing down open trails, the Altitude A50 delivers a thrilling and enjoyable experience. The Altitude A50 is built for speed and control. The bike's descending prowess is a significant factor in its popularity. It enables riders to enjoy a wide variety of terrain. The geometry and suspension system are optimized for descending, making it a top choice for those who love to go downhill. The Altitude A50's capabilities make it a versatile machine, and one that is sure to please any rider looking for a great trail experience.

Handling and Overall Feel

The overall feel and handling of the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 are a key factor in its appeal. The bike's geometry provides a balanced and responsive feel, making it easy to maneuver through various terrains. The bike's suspension system is designed to provide a smooth and controlled ride. This enhances the overall handling of the bike. The components of the bike work together to provide a seamless riding experience. The Altitude A50's handling is predictable and confidence-inspiring, making it a great choice for riders of all skill levels. The bike's overall feel is comfortable and engaging, allowing you to fully enjoy your time on the trails. The handling and overall feel of the Altitude A50 are a testament to the bike's versatile design. It's a bike that can handle everything from technical climbs to fast, flowing descents. The Altitude A50 provides a balanced and enjoyable experience. The combination of geometry, suspension, and components contributes to the bike's exceptional handling. The Altitude A50 is a bike that inspires confidence and allows you to push your limits.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

Let's get down to the pros and cons of the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses will help you decide if this bike is the right fit for your needs. We'll break down the key advantages and disadvantages of this model. This will provide you with a balanced view of the bike. This will allow you to make a more informed decision. The following content will highlight the areas where the Altitude A50 excels and the areas where it may fall short. It is important to consider all aspects of the bike before making a purchase. The pros and cons can assist you with your decision. The goal is to provide a balanced and honest assessment. This will help you to understand what to expect from the Altitude A50.

Pros

• Versatile Performance: The Altitude A50 is designed to handle a wide range of trails and riding styles, making it a versatile choice for various riders.
• Quality Components: The bike features a combination of reliable and high-performing components, including a Shimano Deore 1x12 drivetrain and RockShox suspension.
• Modern Geometry: The modern frame geometry provides a comfortable and confident riding position. It enhances both climbing efficiency and descending stability.
• Durable Construction: The FORM™ alloy frame ensures the bike is durable and can withstand the rigors of trail riding.
• Value for Money: The Altitude A50 offers a great balance of features, performance, and value, making it a competitive option in its price range.

Cons

• Weight: The bike may be a bit heavier compared to some other bikes in its class. This can impact climbing performance on longer ascents.
• Stock Tires: The stock tires may not be ideal for all conditions, and some riders may consider upgrading them for better performance.
• Entry-Level Brakes: While the Shimano brakes are reliable, some experienced riders might prefer higher-end brakes for enhanced stopping power and modulation.

Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 Right for You?

So, after a thorough review, is the 2020 Rocky Mountain Altitude A50 the right mountain bike for you, guys? The answer depends on your riding style, experience level, and budget. If you're looking for a versatile trail bike that can handle various terrains with confidence, the Altitude A50 is an excellent choice. This bike offers a blend of performance, durability, and value that's hard to beat. The Altitude A50 excels on trails and excels at climbing and descending. It also has a balanced overall handling that makes it suitable for all levels of riders. This makes it an attractive option for a wide range of riders. The bike's performance, combined with its quality components and durable construction, makes it a reliable choice. The Altitude A50 offers a great riding experience. The bike is designed to handle a variety of trail conditions, making it an excellent choice for a variety of riders. The bike's versatility and performance make it a great option. It’s an option for those seeking a reliable and high-performing mountain bike. If you're serious about your trail riding, the Altitude A50 is well worth your consideration. The bike is a great choice and a good choice to expand your mountain biking experience. The Altitude A50 is a great choice, go out and have fun, guys!