Rocky Mountain Solo 2023

Canada, in our minds, stands for vastness, wilderness, adventure. And years after the initial hype, Rocky Mountain is still considered the embodiment of all that - and more, keyword Fro-rider, Slayer, Wade Simmons, Brett Tippie, Richie Schley.
Perhaps that is why the MTB pioneers hesitated in 2021 to enter the emerging, smoothed-out interpretation of rough mountain biking with the gravel bike Solo, initially offering it only in an aluminum version - unusual for the Canadian carbon experts - with two equipment options.
Now, however, the creators behind the legendary maple leaf bikes seem convinced of the potential of gravel bikes. They are expanding the Solo into a full product line with three carbon and two aluminum models (the GRX model visible in the photos is for Rocky's home trails only). And this line, otherwise it wouldn't be a worthy Rocky, is made for the rough.

The underlying standards already make it clear what kind of spirit the Solo is of: The frames were tested according to mountain bike testing standards. The geometry data promises, among other things, a relatively high stack for a comfortable position even for those clients who normally do not ride in a stretched, sporty manner. If desired, a retractable seat post (27.2 mm) can be retrofitted. And above all, the tire clearance reflects the desire to confidently leave paved roads behind. With mudguards, 700c tires up to 40 mm are possible. Those who want to ride 29" or 650B instead can install generous 2.0" or even 2.2" tires.

What further distinguishes the new Solo, regardless of the frame material, are the numerous mounting points. Twelve on the frame and eight on the fork, making 20 in total, open up unexpected possibilities for cargo transport, water storage, and accessory Tetris.
Based on these facts, it does not seem exaggerated when Rocky says: "The Solo is the perfect tool to escape, accumulate some kilometers, and make multi-day trips a pleasure."

The carbon models are manufactured using the Smoothwall process and offer increased vertical compliance compared to the aluminum versions made from RMB 6061 tube sets. This is attributed to the low-set seat stays with special flex zones located there as well as in the lower seat tube.
Both variants are completed by full carbon forks, the ends of which are protected from damage by fork boots. The down tube and the drive-side chain stay are also reinforced with protectors.
All cables run internally enclosed, entering the frame classically behind the head tube or at the fork crown, rather than through the headset. Unlike the predecessor, the new Solos are compatible with dual drives including Di2 – but only those made of carbon.

Geometry

Geometry-wise, across the five available sizes, stability due to a low bottom bracket, comfort due to a high STR (1.57 in size L), and overall finely balanced handling due to moderate angles and values should reign supreme.
According to the manufacturer, not only should gravel racing, bikepacking, and "everything in between" be possible with the Solo, but it should also be a true joy.

In German-speaking areas, only three of the five models intended for the international market with Sram equipment will be available. For the two "extremes" of the lineup, C90 and A30, it means finding alternative procurement routes.

The international flagship will undoubtedly be the Solo Carbon 90 in elegant Blackberry Smoke/Foxy Lady/Black Dog with Sram Force AXS including XPLR gearing (42/10-44) and various carbon parts, from Rocky Mountain wheels with WTB Venture TCS tires to Easton EC70 AX handlebars up to Easton EC70 seatpost.
Painted mostly black (specifically: Carbona Not Glue/Black Dog), the similarly equipped Solo Carbon 70 comes with Sram Rival AXS and also various fine carbon components (including Easton's EA70 Gravel wheelset), which will be available in this country for €5,100.
The originally also twelve-speed Rival-specified (but mechanical) Solo Carbon 50 for €3,900, according to the latest information from Rocky Mountain, will have to make do with a 1x11 because Sram apparently changed the production plan accordingly. This fate is shared by the creatively painted (Another Brick In The Wall/Wind Of Change) carbon beginner with the €2,600 Solo Alloy 50 in chic Beige (apologies: Bad To The Bone/One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer/Black Dog) or Green (specifically: Green River/Monster Mash).
And at the very start of the international product range will be the Solo Alloy 30 also colored in the Green combination, powered by Sram Apex, braked by TRP Spyre, and, like the entire line, equipped with WTB Venture TCS Light Fast Rolling tires (700 x 40c)