2013 Rocky Mountain Element 970 RSL

Archived: Frame: FORM C13 Hi Mod Carbon · Fork: Fox 32 Float FIT CTD 100mm

• Inspect the frame in bright light, especially the head tube, bottom-bracket area, chainstays and clamped surfaces. Look for cracks, ripples, crushed sections or signs of impact.

Archived: Fork: Fox 32 Float FIT CTD 100mm · Rear shock: Fox Float CTD

• Inspect the fork stanchions for scratches or coating wear, look for oil or dirt rings at the seals, and cycle the fork through its travel while checking for binding or bushing play.
• Inspect the shock shaft and seals, cycle the rear suspension through its travel and check for oil, air loss, binding or unusual top-out and bottom-out noises.
• Hold the rear brake and load the suspension from several directions. Check pivots, bearings and mounting hardware for knock, looseness or side play.
• Ask for dated fork, shock and pivot-service records. A clean exterior does not establish the condition of internal seals, oil, bushings or bearings.

Archived: Shifters: Shimano Deore XT · Front derailleur: Shimano Deore XT · Rear derailleur: Shimano XTR Shadow Plus · Crankset: Race Face Turbine 38/24 · Bottom bracket: Race Face Press Fit · Cassette: Shimano XTR 11x36t · Rear cogs: 2x10 Speeds · Chain: Shimano HG94

• Shift through every available gear under light load. Hesitation, skipping or inconsistent indexing can reflect wear, damage, poor adjustment or mismatched replacement parts.
• Measure chain wear with a compatible gauge and inspect chainring, cassette or freewheel teeth. A new chain does not rule out wear in the remaining drivetrain.
• Turn the cranks slowly, feel for rough bearings and check for side-to-side play. Inspect crank arms, chainring bolts and pedal threads for looseness or damage.

Archived: Brakes: Shimano Deore XT

• Inspect pads and braking surfaces, check the complete cable or hose path, and confirm both controls feel consistent and return cleanly.

Archived: Headset: Cane Creek Forty IS · Handlebar: Race Face Turbine · Stem: Race Face Turbine · Seatpost: Race Face Turbine · Saddle: Fi'zi:k Gobi XM

• Apply the front brake and rock the bike to check for headset play or notchiness. Inspect the stem, handlebar and clamp zones, then confirm every fastener and control is secure.
• Check that the seatpost moves for adjustment and that the saddle, post and clamp hold securely without cracks, severe corrosion or damaged hardware.