At Owenhouse Cycling, we talk trail bikes a lot, and short-travel bikes are hands-down a favorite among our team and local riders. Why? Because Bozeman trails don’t mess around. Steep climbs, long days, and rugged descents require a bike that climbs like a goat and descends like a long-travel rig.
Two of the best in this category? The Rocky Mountain Element and the Ibis Ripley. Both are quick on the climbs but still love to party on the way down. If you’re hunting for the ultimate Bozeman trail machine, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down how these two stack up.
Details Matter: The Element & Ripley
Both the Element and Ripley have received significant updates over the years, and the latest models are better than ever, especially for riders looking for that sweet balance between uphill efficiency and downhill capability.
Rocky Mountain Element: Lightweight Powerhouse
The Element is made for those who prioritize climbing but still want a capable, modern feel when things point downhill. It’s especially ideal for big Bozeman loops where efficiency counts.
Element Highlights:
- 120mm rear / 130mm front travel
- Built for XC and downcountry riders who want to climb fast without sacrificing fun
- Sub-26 lb carbon builds make it one of the lightest trail rigs on the floor
- 65° head angle + steep seat tube = efficient geometry that eats up steep climbs
- Great fit for trail systems like Triple Tree, Sourdough, or Leverich
- With the Ride-4 chip, you can fine-tune geometry to match your riding style
Ibis Ripley: Downcountry Meets Trail Boss
The Ripley is one of those bikes that just feels right. It punches well above its weight class on the downs and still pedals efficiently enough for all-day adventures.
Ripley Highlights:
- 120mm rear / 130mm front travel
- DW-Link suspension gives it impressive traction and composure on chunky descents
- Slack head tube and 29” wheels offer a surprisingly confident ride
- Feels playful and poppy—ready to rip Mystic Lake, Stone Creek, or Grassy Mountain
- Available in carbon or aluminum, with builds to match different budgets
Key Performance Factors
Suspension:
Both have 120/130mm travel, but DW-link vs. Ride-4 linkage makes them feel different.
- Element: Ride-4 linkage delivers great pedal efficiency and a snappy feel
- Ripley: DW-Link offers smooth, predictable performance on chunky terrain
Geometry:
- Element: More XC/downcountry feel with sharper angles
- Ripley: Trail-biased geometry with a slacker front end
Weight:
- Element: Lighter build, better for big vertical days
- Ripley: Slightly heavier, but confidence-inspiring on the downs
Ride Personality:
- Element: Fast and efficient
- Ripley: Fun, playful, and confidence-inspiring
The Best Bike for Bozeman Trails
Bozeman offers a wide range of trails, from smooth singletrack to technical descents, and each bike offers something a little different, so the best bike depends on what you want from your ride.
The Element is for riders who live for the climb. If you love long days in the saddle and want a bike that helps you crush vertical without draining your legs, this is your ride.
The Ripley is your go-to for Bozeman’s more technical descents and rowdy singletrack. It keeps things composed when trails get loose and steep—and it’s still a great pedaler for all-day loops.
The Team’s Take
Luuk’s Take on the Element
“I love how snappy the Element feels. If you’re climbing all day and still want something that’s fun on the downs, this is your bike.”
Luuk’s Take on the Ripley
“The Ripley punches above its weight on descents. It corners incredibly well and is super forgiving when things get fast or loose.”
Shop Rocky Mountain & Ibis Bicycles in Bozeman, MT
We’re seeing more riders trade long-travel rigs for something lighter, quicker, and more versatile, and we get it. Around here, short-travel trail bikes just make sense. The Element and Ripley are two of the best examples of what this category can do, and they’re what many of us at Owenhouse choose to ride on Bozeman’s trails.
