Rocky Mountain has done it again, setting a new benchmark in the ever-evolving world of downcountry riding with the latest iteration of the Element. Known for its precision engineering and ability to blur the lines between cross-country efficiency and trail-bike capability, the 2025 Element cements its place as a downcountry machine built for those who crave speed on the climbs and confidence on the descents.
The new Element delivers on what riders have come to expect from the category—progressive geometry, efficient suspension, and just enough travel to handle aggressive terrain. Featuring a 120mm rear and 130mm front travel setup, this bike balances efficiency with control, ensuring that every pedal stroke translates into speed without sacrificing stability on technical sections. With its updated carbon and alloy frame options, Rocky Mountain offers a tailored experience for riders seeking a race-ready machine or an all-day adventure companion.
One of the most exciting updates to the Element is its commitment to weight reduction without compromising durability. The new Smoothwall carbon layup has shaved off grams while maintaining the stiffness and responsiveness needed for technical descents and rapid accelerations. The flex-stay rear triangle eliminates the need for a pivot at the seat stays, reducing weight while enhancing the bike’s natural compliance over rough terrain.
Geometry has also seen refinements, making the new Element even more capable than its predecessor. With a steep 76.5-degree seat angle for optimal climbing efficiency and a slackened 65-degree head angle, riders can expect a stable and planted feel when descending at speed. The adjustable Ride-4 geometry system remains a standout feature, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup based on terrain and personal preference.
Downcountry bikes thrive on adaptability, and the Element embraces this with a longer reach, integrated frame storage, and improved tire clearance for more aggressive rubber setups. Paired with modern cockpit ergonomics and a refined suspension kinematic, this bike is as comfortable grinding up fire roads as it is ripping flow trails or tackling root-laden descents.
Rocky Mountain’s design philosophy continues to evolve, and the latest Element is proof of their commitment to blending efficiency, capability, and outright fun. Whether you’re chasing podiums or seeking out high-alpine singletrack, the Element is designed to push limits and redefine what a downcountry bike can be.
For riders looking for the ultimate balance of lightweight efficiency and technical prowess, the new Rocky Mountain Element is a game-changer. With a pedigree rooted in racing but a design built for real-world trail demands, this downcountry ripper is ready to take on whatever the mountains throw at it.
Fast is fun every day of the week and this Downcountry whip makes having fun easy. Visit Gearhub Sports to get your Down Country solution – a perfect bike for Fernie trails!
This September, mountain bikers looking for the ultimate downcountry challenge will have a new reason to mark their calendars. Steep n’ Deep XC, the latest addition to the Anything Goes Event Series, is set to debut at Fernie Alpine Resort on September 12-13, promising a race unlike any other.
A New Age of Racing
Steep n’ Deep XC redefines mountain bike racing with a 35km cross-country-style course featuring four unique timed stages. Riders will experience the full spectrum of mountain biking, from adrenaline-pumping descents to leg-burning climbs, all while soaking in Fernie’s legendary terrain. The format includes more downhill than uphill, but don’t be fooled—each descent will be hard-earned.
With a race format similar to enduro, riders will navigate multiple challenging stages, blending technical skill with endurance. Expect total ride times of 2.5 to 4 hours, covering 1,600m of elevation gain, with cumulative race times ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 hours across the timed sections. Key trails featured in the course include Double Creek, Top Gun, Mr. Berms, the Megasaurus Climb, and the rough and rowdy Rumplestumpskin.
More Than Just a Race
Steep n’ Deep XC isn’t just about competition—it’s a full weekend of festivities, camaraderie, and celebration at Fernie Alpine Resort. The action kicks off with a Rider Social and Package Pickup at Legends Mountain Eatery on Friday, setting the stage for an unforgettable event. Race day brings high-energy finish line vibes, live entertainment featuring Fernie’s own Little Bit Good Band, and an afterparty at the legendary Griz Bar—a must-visit après spot since 1962.
Race Entry & Prizes
Riders who sign up will receive:
• Professional timing and a well-marked course
• On-course refueling stations
• Access to all pre- and post-race festivities
• Swag bag, post-race burger & beer
• A chance to win epic prizes
• A $4,000 cash purse for Pro riders
Top finishers in multiple categories—including Pro, Open, Junior, Locals, and Adaptive/Para—will take home awards and bragging rights, with cash prizes for the Top 5 Pro Men and Women.
How to Get Involved
Register Now – Ready to test your endurance? Sign up now before spots fill up! If a category is full, email info@anythinggoeseventseries.com to join the waitlist.
Volunteer – Be part of the event magic! Volunteers receive a Steep n’ Deep XC T-shirt, sponsor goodies, a post-race burger & beer, and a volunteer bar tab at the Griz Bar party. Email info@anythinggoeseventseries.com to sign up.
Save the Date – Whether you’re racing, spectating, or just here for the party, September 12-13 is a weekend you don’t want to miss!
For full event details, course maps, and registration, visit Anything Goes Event Series. Get ready to ride Fernie like never before!
Completely reimagined, from the ground up, the new Rocky Mountain Altitude is built for going fast in Fernie’s Rocky Mountains!
Rocky Mountain is stating that the all-new design makes the Altitude even faster than before. With increased stiffness and a lower centre of gravity, overall ride performance is leveled up. The new suspension designs linear rate curve provides a supportive and predictable feel with minimal unwanted movement or harshness. Mid to large-sized impacts are absorbed effectively without compromising speed or control.
The LC2R™ suspension system is making it’s first appearance on the Altitude and promises to deliver superior climbing and descending. It was first introduced on the 2006 Slayer, and was found on later versions of the Slayer SXC and Slayer SS. The design was then adapted to the popular 2008 Flatline, and then the Flatline WC models.
Mark Hall, Gearhub Sports Manager, commented, “The Altitude has been Gearhub’s and Fernie’s most popular bike for the past decade and the new design will be more popular that ever. We have the new Altitude on the floor, drop by and see what’s in stock or order one today!”
Rémi Gauvin, Rocky Mountain Athlete, commented, “I’ve been riding iterations of the Altitude forthe last 10 years and this one is by far themost exciting yet. The evolution of the bikemakes it without a doubt the most capableit’s ever been, and I’ve never been more excited to take a bike to the races.”
Anything Goes Event Series is stoked to contribute to the boomin’ early season gravel race scene in Western Canada by hosting the Cranbrook Gravel Grind this May 25th followed by the Fernie Gravel Grind on July 12th.
Cranbrook Gravel Grind is it a perfect season opener, it’s also great preparation for Canadian Gravel National Championships coming to our neck of the woods in 2024 hosted by our friends Ghost of the Gravel.
If you’re looking for the ideal Nationals tune up race, the Cranbrook Gravel Grind is prime timing to test the legs three weeks out. Sharpen your bike handling skills in the twists and turns of the Cranbrook Community Forest before really getting the legs burning on the climbing-heavy back half of the course.
Ever since the 2021 atmospheric river that destroyed much of the Fernie Gravel Grind’s routes, they’ve been making due with what was left. Fortunately, thanks to the help of many community members, they are able to bring new roads to this year’s Short Haul.
The 2024 Short Haul is perfect for new racers or those simply looking to have a good time, as it’s not too hot and not too cold, it really is just right. The Short Haul features a roller coaster of a ride with incredible vistas to boot throughout the Elk Valley. As always they’ll have their wild Stoke Stations locked and loaded to support riders topped up with race fuel and premium stoke.
The 2024 Long Haul, is just as beautiful as it is unrelenting and every descent is hard earned. But whether or not you’re in Fernie to be the first across the finish line or to simply take in the scenery with friends, you are guaranteed an epic day out!
Don’t let the distance deceive you! The Updated Long Haul will be sure to challenge riders featuring a wide variety of terrain featuring Forestry Service Roads, tough climbs, flowy double track, and even bits of green singletrack, after all – anything goes with gravel! They guarantee your post race beverage will be well earned. Stay tuned for course files in the coming weeks.
Following their mission, Anything Goes With Gravel, the races are open to anyone and everyone and offers multiple distances, race categories and fun activities for the whole family all weekend long.
The TransRockies Gravel Royale has been cancelled due to Wildfires in the region.
Aaron McConnell, TransRockies President, commented, “It’s with heavy hearts and a commitment to safety as our top priority, we regret to announce the cancellation of the highly anticipated TransRockies Gravel Royale 2023. The decision comes in response to the ongoing wildfire situation that has affected the race route and surrounding areas. Despite our dedicated efforts and consultations with BC Wildfire officials over the past week, it has become apparent that proceeding with the event would pose too great a risk to participants, staff, and the local communities.”
The TransRockies Gravel Royale has been a testament to the spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and endurance since its inception. Aaron continued to say that he understands the disappointment that this cancellation brings, but the TransRockies responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved is paramount.
Several key factors contributed to this difficult decision:
1. Wildfire Proximity:
The Horsethief Creek Complex, comprised of the Horsethief, Yearling, and Mia Creek fires, poses a significant threat along the route. All three fires have been classified as “Out of Control,” creating an unpredictable and potentially hazardous environment.
2. Evacuation Concerns and Emergency Respose:
Although the evacuation order for Nipika has been lifted, the area remains under an “evacuation alert”. In the event of further closures or emergencies, the options for transporting a large group of riders out of Nipika are limited, raising safety concerns in case of unforeseen circumstances.
3. Course Disruption:
A section of the race course near Nipika, particularly Cochran Creek, remains closed due to wildfire activity. This closure necessitates a reroute, which could impact the overall race experience.
4. Uncontained Mia Creek Fire:
The Mia Creek fire continues to spread, with limited containment progress. BC Wildfire authorities have expressed apprehension about potential fire spread, especially if wind conditions change. The inaccessibility of the area further complicates firefighting efforts. Portions of the planned route are within the current Area Restriction and closure.
5. Air Quality and Smoke Concerns:
While smoke has not been a significant issue at present, the situation is unpredictable and could rapidly worsen. Given the nature of the race as a point-to-point event, it is challenging to adjust stages to account for poor air quality.
7. Permit Uncertainty:
Ongoing evacuation alerts in the Nipika area could lead to officials withholding of necessary permits, creating additional obstacles for organizing a safe and successful event.
The TransRockies administration have communicated with registered participants regarding deferral options and also express their commitment to exploring future opportunities to bring the spirit of TransRockies Gravel Royale back stronger than ever once the wildfire situation stabilizes and conditions permit. Next year’s event is scheduled for August 23-26, 2024.
The Entire TransRockies Team We would like to extend their sincere gratitude to all participants, sponsors, volunteers, and local communities who have supported the TransRockies Gravel Royale. While this cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing, the health and safety of everyone involved remains our utmost priority.
Stay safe, stay informed, and let us work together to support the firefighting efforts and recovery of the affected communities.
The TransRockies would like to thank all the Fernie supporters including GearHub Sports, the City of Fernie, Fernie.com, Tourism Fernie, Park Place Lodge, Red Tree Lodge, Raging Elk Adventure Lodge, Fernie Lodging Company, Fernie RV Resort, Stanford Resort, Snow Valley Lodging and the Fernie Fox. Fernie was ready for an epic finish…
The TransRockies Singletrack 6 Returns to Fernie on July 12 to 14th for a Spectacular 20th Anniversary Mountain Biking Adventure.
In 2002 the TransRockies began in Fernie with the TransRockies Challenge, the 7 day point to point stage race, and now the Singletrack 6. Fernie has been the perfect place to start, finish and host some of the TransRockies biggest and most important races for 20 years.
The TransRockies Singletrack 6 has become a highlight on the mountain biking calendar, attracting riders from around the globe to challenge themselves and immerse themselves in the thrill of world-class singletrack. In 2023, participants can expect an exceptional race that combines technical descents, lung-busting climbs, and awe-inspiring scenery, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie and adventure. “We are thrilled to bring back the TransRockies Singletrack 6 for the 20th anniversary of this incredible mountain bike race,” said Aaron McConnell, TransRockies President. “This event offers riders the opportunity to explore some of the most iconic trails in Western Canada and create lifelong memories along the way.”
In 2022 Fernie rider Carter Nieuwesteeg won the Singletrack 6 and he’s back this year. Carter will be riding the BC Bike Race coming into the Singletrack 6, 13 days of staging racing in 17 days. Carter commented, “It’s a quick turn around to defend my ST6 title that once again starts on home trails right here in Fernie. Taking on two of the most iconic week long stage races where anything can happen and I can’t wait to see where this thing goes!” Carter is the organizer of the Fernie Gravel Grind, a weekend long festival for 500 riders that’s raised over $20,000 for the local community.
Gearhub Sports is the Stage 1 title sponsor and support shop for this year’s ST6 and has two team riders participating. Steve Kelly and Dylan Bailey will be representing Gearhub and both will be riding Rocky Mountain Element’s.
The TransRockies crew is a dedicated group and the friendships continue to this day. Dan Savage, Fernie organizer, commented, “I’m stoked that Fernie continues to host this World Class event. The Transrockies was the seed that helped define Fernie as a mountain bike destination. It’s great in 2023 to have permission to include the Elk Valley Trail and finish in Sparwood!”
The 2023 TransRockies Singletrack 6 will span six stages, each with its own unique challenges and stunning surroundings. The schedule and stage locations for the Fernie are as follows:
Stage 1: Fernie, BC – July 13th (36km distance / 1150m elevation)
• Fernie will again provide a thrilling start to the week of racing, with riders embarking on a demanding course that showcases the area’s natural beauty.
• Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Fernie Aquatic Centre to witness the excitement as riders cross both the start and finish line here, celebrating their first stage accomplishment.
• Race start time is 8AM, with the first riders projected to cross the finish line at approximately 9:30AM.
• The Beer Garden, Food Trucks, Awards Ceremony and Course Briefing will take place at 2PM from the Fernie Aquatic Centre.
Stage 2: Fernie, BC to Sparwood, BC – July 14th (45km distance / 1100m elevation)
• The Fernie Aquatic Centre will once again set the stage for an exhilarating day of riding, as participants tackle technical terrain and embrace the rugged wilderness.
• Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Sparwood’s Titan truck to witness the fast-paced finishes and cheer on the riders as they complete another challenging stage.
• Race start time is 8AM, with the first riders projected to cross the finish line at approximately 9:30AM.
• The Beer Garden, BBQ, Awards Ceremony and Course Briefing will take place at 2PM from the Sparwood Visitor Centre.
Following Fernie the ST6 will move to the Crowsnest Pass for two exciting stages before heading to Canmore for the final two stages.
TransRockies would like to thank all of our local Fernie and Sparwood supporters including the City of Fernie, Fernie.com, Tourism Fernie, Fernie Trails Alliance, Park Place Lodge, GearHub Sports, Red Tree Lodge, Raging Elk Adventure Lodge, Fernie Lodging Company, Fernie RV Resort, Stanford Resort, Snow Valley Lodging, Coal Creek Heritage Society, the District of Sparwood, Sparwood Chamber of Commerce, the Sparwood Trails Alliance and the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Best wishes to all the riders and organizers on the 20th Anniversary Mountain Biking Adventure!
Congratulations Tourism Fernie on winning the Professional Excellence Award! See details here: https://tinyurl.com/4b7fxu8c #fernie #award #tourism #DMO #congrats
