Introducing the 2024 Rocky Mountain Instinct

The latest version of Rocky's shred-everything trail bike, the Instinct, has arrived! Standout updates include internal storage on carbon models, tweaked geometry that's taller and slacker, more points of adjustment than before, and new kinematics that deliver a super-efficient pedaling platform matched with bottomless support on descents, making the bike ride like it has more than 140m of travel.

We have a long-term review of the Instinct brewing as we speak, and thus far, the bike has lived up to its promised versatility! There is a lot of adjustability on offer, so it should be fun figuring out what setup suits our style and terrain best. Stay tuned for a full review in early spring, and scroll below for more details.

In search of a quiver-killer? We’ve got you covered. Designed to thrive on technical trails, but still allows you to push the distance and crush the climbs. We’ve updated the frame features, geometry, and suspension kinematics to make sure you feel confident on the up’s, down’s, and everything in between. Trust your Instinct.

About the Launch Film: Ex-Olympian and athlete Sam Schultz and photographer Margus Riga crossed paths a few years ago and connected through their love of multi-day mountain biking adventures. In 2022, they teamed up for a Rocky Mountain photo shoot and spent three days in the rugged and remote Chilcotin Ranges. During that trip, Sam quickly learnt the definition of getting Riga'd - to undersell the difficulty of an adventure with the trust that your friends will probably survive anyway.

A year later, Sam and Margus have a new assignment, this time in Toby Creek, Invermere. In search of yellow larches, beautiful backdrops and sunsets, the team explores the area in search of the perfect shots. Sam wasn't about to get Riga'd this time…

Highlights

Full carbon and alloy frame options
140mm of rear wheel travel // 150mm fork
Wheel size:
- XS - S: 27.5"
- SM - XL: 29"
Ride-4 adjustment system offers four geometry configurations
Two-position axle
63.5° / 64° / 64.4° head tube angle
+/- 5mm reach adjust
UDH equipped
PenaltyBox 2.0 internal frame storage
press fit bottom bracket
Full-sealed cartridge bearings
12x148 Boost rear hub spacing
Sizes: XS-XL
3 alloy builds
6 carbon builds
Alloy Build MSRP: $2,899-$4,599 USD
Carbon Build MSRP: $4,699-$10,599 USD

What Sets the New Instinct Apart?

Refined Geometry: We’ve refined the reach, made the seat tube angle steeper, and lengthened the chainstays.
Total Adjustability: Designed with adjustable frame features to suit all riders and riding styles. This is our most versatile platform.
Size-Specific Tune: Ensures that riders of all sizes get the right balance of small-bump compliance, mid-stroke support, and end-stroke progressiveness. Our design team does custom shock tunes based on real world field testing and adjusts each tune for specific frame sizes.
Reach Adjust Headset: Fine-tune your ride with center, +/- 5mm offset options.
Generous Space for Long Dropper Posts: Shorter seat tube lengths for increased dropper post-fitment.

Frame Details

RIDE-4™ Adjustment System

Allows riders to quickly fine-tune their geometry and suspension with a single Allen key. Four configurations are possible thanks to one rotating chip on each side.

Four positions, compared to the previous Instinct’s nine, should allow for a more straightforward setup and tuning process.

Two-Position Rear Axle

The Two-Position Axle adjustment system allows riders to choose a chainstay length that better suits their needs. A single 8mm Allen key is required to remove the derailleur hanger on the drive side chip, while the non-drive side chip is removeable by hand. Note that Transmission derailleurs are only compatible in the longest position due to their unique function.

There is a 10mm difference between axle positions.

PenaltyBox™ 2.0

The latest Instinct carbon models now come with our new PenaltyBox downtube storage that is capable of holding a water bottle with an installed cage. It includes a custom storage solution for both a tube and tools plus a concealed AirTag/Tile compartment.

Fully Enclosed Internal Routing

Allows for easy cable and hose installations, with thoughtful consideration for moto-style brake setups.

Smoothlink Suspension

Smoothlink suspension aim to provide maximum traction and comfort in all situations. It features a tuned blend of anti-squat and rate curve that is efficient yet supple. Each platform that uses our four-bar suspension design philosophy is centered on ride characteristics that balance kinematic variables to achieve the legendary Rocky Mountain ride feel.