2001 Rocky Mountain Slayer – Edge Bike Review

Rocky Mountain Bicycles is a mid-sized bike manufacturer out of British Columbia, Canada that has been turning out quality, near-custom rides for over 21 years. At Rocky, they build dependable and durable bikes built to withstand both North Shore abuse and the non-abuse of the average consumer. Something that stands out at Rocky Mountain is that everyone at the company takes deep personal pride in every bike that leaves their factory. So much so, they stamp every frame with the words “Built in Canada.”

Rocky Mountain Bicycles are not made or manufactured–they are “Built.”

Finishing touches like impeccable powder-coat paint, Easton aluminum tubing, handbuilt wheelsets and up to a 5-year frame warranty on full-suspension and hardtail aluminum models.

As the premier sponsor of the last four videos in the Kranked series from Radical Films, you’ve seen the Rocky Mountain RM6, RM7, RM9 DH, Pipeline and Element DH bikes tested on Vancouver’s North Shore and throughout the World. Their bikes are serious machines, typically weighing more than comparable rides, but definitely more durable.

For 2001, my personal steed was the 2001 Rocky Mountain Edge. I chose the Edge instead of the identical Slayer because I was going to custom-build the bike anyway, so the Edge came in at a lower price-point for the identical frame and shock.

Rocky Mountain Edge On The Trail

At first glance, the bike looks intimidating–with the moto-style riser bars, slick black paint job and a solid-looking frame. My first spin on the Edge was mixed. I liked the rear suspension… very supple and active. But the Z1 seemed really soft to me. So much so that I felt I was going to endo or bottom it out with every obstacle.

I felt no bob when climbing and the suspension was much more supple than the Element Race I had ridden the year before. I was sold on the frame, but getting used to the sensitivity of the Marzocchi Z1 took some time. My previous bike had a Manitou X-Vert which isn’t nearly as supple as the Z1.

I asked around and everyone I talked to said to give myself some time to get used the fork, but once you’re used to how it reacts, you’ll be amazed. After a couple of rides, I really loved the supple feel and instant tracking offered by the super-stiff QR20 thru-axle.

The Edge climbs exceptionally well for a 35-pound bike. By no means can I keep up with XC geeks, but I don’t feel myself lagging on long ascents. I’ve become all-to-familiar with the granny gear, but it all pays off when descending.

The Rocky Mountain 3D-Link rear suspension is a proven design that’s been used by Rocky for over 5 years. It soaks up small and large bumbs equally well and remains active with no noticeable brake jack or lockup.

Overall, this bike is a true trailbike with the ability to take you to the top of the hill without keeling over, but delivering the goods when pointed downhill.

The Bottom Line on the Rocky Mountain Edge

Overall, this bike is excellent for a modest freerider who wants a bike that will climb up anything and still descend with confidence. This is a great trailbike that inspires confidence all over the trail. If you get off course, this bike will handle it until you get back on top of it.

If you’re looking for a great XC/Freeride machine that can do it all comfortably, this is the bike for you. If you’re looking for a full-on DH bulldozer, look elsewhere as this frame isn’t quite beefy enough to handle hard-core DH riding and big drops.

For 2002, the Slayer gets a Fox Float RL to differentiate it from the Edge. Also for 2002, the Edge gets new colors, new Shimano parts spec and Titec Hellbent risers (goodbye Rocky boomerangs!).

Buy Now: Find Your Local Rocky Mountain Bike Dealer