Santa Cruz Hightower 3: Just Hit Play
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- čas přidán 24. 06. 2024
- Refined, not redefined, is the tagline for the Hightower 3. It’s the kind of bike you can take anywhere and be pretty comfortable riding. Santa Cruz says it’s their “Greatest hits compiled into one bike.” So is it their best work yet? Stick around to find out.
0:00 Intro
0:34 What's New?
2:46 Hightower Review - Uphill
5:23 Hightower Review - Downhill
9:23 Comparisons
11:52 Who is it For?
As always you can find the written review on our website - www.bebikes.com/the-hub/santa... - Sport
I'm really impressed by your comments on how it climbs. In my opinion, Santa Cruz bikes have always had an intangible fun factor but with some sacrifice on sheer pedaling efficiency and climbing performance (eg, compared with Yeti). If they have the climbing dialed now, then it sounds like they made the perfect mountain bike.
I love it that you took the trouble of finding out what the morse code meant. Always appreciate details like that both on the product itself and in a narrative about it. Way to go!
It was a cool little Easter egg. Only took me about 18 hours to translate.
@@bikersedge all worth it for one guy acknowledging it in a comment, right?
@@adamplavecz worth it even if no one acknowledged it.
Hi Conner, Great review as always. I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to answer so many people's questions. I really respect and appreciate that.
Also, I picked up a Mondraker Raze and wow is that an awesome bike. Good luck finding an extra-large to test though. Thanks again. 👊
Hey thanks. Glad you like the videos!
Loved your review! Just got my Hightower this week and love it! Thanks for the great video.
Awesome! Thank you!
Great insight.. Thank you for the helpful info 🙂👍
Hey man great content ! I recently came to Moab with my Megatower V1 and that bike loved the rocks and grip :) Santacruz are worth the money and the warranty - great company
Great review! I've been riding a Ripmo AF since March and I've loved it so far. Thanks for throwing in a brief comparison at the end!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Lol I appreciate the one liner at the end, definitely something I would say in a review as well; minus knowing anything technical at all
As always, great review Connor! You and Zach are hitting it out of the park. Glad I am within walking distance of your shop! What bikes are in your stable this year? If I remember correctly you parted with both of your Transitions?
Hey thanks for the kind words. I’m rocking the Megatower at the moment.
Great review!
Hey thanks.
Haha damn. You’re so good at these reviews. Wow thank you
Hey thanks!
I was on those trails today! Its lovely up there.
Really nice. Eula was the best.
Great review as always. Any plans to do a comparison with the updated Tallboy? I'm trying to decide between the two.
Yeah. We are working on getting a tallboy for review. Things slow down for us in the winter so It's likely going to be spring before it happens.
nice review . Thanks :)
Hey thanks.
I have a Ripmo V2 and love it! I'm sure the HT is great but i'm all Ripmo all day!
Would love to hear more comparisons between these two. Like is the HT3 just catching up with the now pretty dated Ripmo V2? Because those can be found for a great price.
Great review! With its geometry updates on paper and review, the Hightower v3 is probably perfect for me (my daily rides include a lot of climbing, single track pedaling, with a final descent similar to your demo trails in this video). However, after demoing the HT2 twice AND the Megatower 2, I hands down preferred the Megatower2 so much, that I bought one!! What I liked better wasn't just the plush, yet very responsive and supportive extra travel, but was the updated geometry, especially pointed downhill. I just feel so centered, stable, and confident on the MT2, where I could even appreciate it at my modest riding style. First rides out on the Megatower (coming from a Tallboy), I was riding down sections I would get off and hike. I don't feel disadvantaged on technical climbs, or by any suspension wallow with the MT2. The downside is that I am over-biked with an unnecessary weight penalty (super burly frame, heavier Fox 38 over Fox 36, etc), so while it climbs great for a big enduro bike, I'd still like a little lighter speed for multi-mile uphill grinds. Honestly, had I waited, I would have at least been able to demo the updated HT3 vs MT2 for a more direct comparison. Who knows, I may have stuck with the Megatower 2, or maybe I would have snatched up the lighter do-it-all Hightower v3. Note: my wife demoed the Hightower 3 and her experience was similar to my Megatower 2 experience, so she might have to upgrade from her Stumpy.
Interesting yeah I'm still stuck in the whole Sent. vs Spire or HT vs MT decision process myself. I love the idea of lighter more playful and because I want to go the distance without hating the weight.. but then I can't stop wanting more travel and more comfort so I can worry less about my spine and enjoy the downhills lol
I was going to say, looks like you're in my backyard Connor! LOL Come to Bellingham with your next trial. Cheers!!
I want to make it up there someday.
Great review as always! How does this compare to the Instinct?
Pretty similar. I think the instinct might fee a little more trail even.
Nice review! I like the colors of the HT3 way more than the HT2 ones. I ride a 22' Tallboy and it's an awesome bike but I wouldn't mind upgrading someday to this HT. Did you ride this HT in an XL? I'm also 6'2" so I was just curious.
Yes I rode the XL. That’s my go-to size.
Great review as usual. With the new updated geo/longer wheelbase, should I still go large? I'm about 5'10" with a 30" inseam. Thanks and keep rockin' these reviews!
I hesitate to give out specific size advice over the internet. If you fit in the large range id recommend that regardless of the bike being longer than the previous version. It being longer is part of the design. Downsizing would negate those benefits
@@bikersedge makes total sense. thanks for putting it in that perspective. Cheers!
I can give my 2 cents since I am 176cm (5' 9.5") and I recently purchased the Hightower v3 in size L.
I find the L great for me, although my inseam in 32". For reference, I come from a size M 2019 Bronson v3 (which I always felt was a little cramped for me). I know it is a very overused phrase, but the larger size really gives you the feel of being "in the bike" rather than "on". I find it very comfortable and stable and so far have never had the feeling of the wheelbase being too long. I actually think it corners really well and the higher stack is something I found myself wishing for on my old bike.
I must say that I am 52 yrs old though, so my flexibility and old bones may impact my impressions of how it rides.
To sum it up, I think that if you are not a rider that pops off of everything and is looking for a more stable confident ride, go for the L.
So did they basicly fix the suspension issues, that the Cascade components link could fix on the V2? I ride a V2 and absolutely love it, and don’t really feel the downs that others do with the suspension, but I’m also a pretty light rider
For 3 years the Hightower related FB groups, PB and MTBR forums have been full of HT owners frustrated with the limited shock fitment. I'm honestly surprised they chose to stay that course.
Otherwise, love the colors, glovebox and sag window.
That one is a little interesting to me too. Although if I had one I doubt I’d want to run something other than that Super Deluxe. Feels really nice.
Do you think the Lyrik Fork and Fox Float Performance DPS on the base model would be just as good or worth upgrading
@@LastAphelion I wouldn’t spend the money upgrading. The dampers in that suspension are still really good. You lack a little adjustment but they aren’t necessarily inferior.
I am sure this bike is fine as is, but Options are good! SC needs to understand we all like options and some of us might want to modify our bike's characteristics down the line. I think SC just wanted to really differentiate this bike from the MegatowerV2. At least now you know this bike is NOT for you if you think you will want a Fox X2 or coil down the line. The MegatowerV2 is the bike for you!
@@LastAphelion Honestly, give it a shot, see how it feels. The Lyrik is a very capable fork (some even prefer it to the Fox 36). As for the DPS shock, it gets the job done and in my experience, it may be simple, but is extremely durable. Ride it until you kill it, then when it's time to upgrade, get the Fox Float X or RockShox Super Deluxe.
I'd love to hear how this compares to a recent Pivot Switchblade as that was often reviewed as the livelier all-mountain bike!
@Bikers Edge does not carry Pivot so they can't comment on that particular comparison, I just demoed the Switchblade and want to demo this now!
@@parkinos Ah right. I'm in Australia so I'm unlikely to be able to buy directly from them but I stick around for the content!
@@VredesbyrdNoir If you find yourself in Northern Utah you should give the shop a visit and demo one of these.
@@parkinos it's definitely a place I'd like to ride!
Great video ! What would you recommend for trails and climb mountains ? The new 2022 Hightower 3 or the sb130 2022 ?
Personally at this point I’d take the Hightower. Its geometry is more in line with modern standards.
Curious how it compares to a HT2 w/ cascade link and perhaps 160mm fork. The geometry numbers and suspension curve are closer with that configuration and it's fairly popular
I’ve never ridden the cascade link so I can’t say.
Excellent video. How much better can these bikes possibly get ?
Hey thanks. Glad you liked it!
Excellent 12 minute Commercial you made here Santa Cruz !
Hey thanks. Glad you liked it so much!
@@bikersedge , you are a great sales man. Tell Santa Cruz to give you a big raise! ❤️. I myself even bought a MegaV2 frame and built it up, after watching your MegaV2 Review!
@@ErichVonCartmann I must be missing out on my commissions.
@@bikersedge , might be a supply chain issue, SC might be running low on paper checks or be low on Bandwidth to send digital checks in a timely manner. Be patient, I am sure they are in "in process" ❤️
I loved how my last gen 2 HT handled. But I had terrible sag on mine unless I used too much pressure. Then it sacrificed travel and I still got peddle slaps on rocky terrain even in elevated mode, some turned painful. There wasn’t enough clearance for my tastes. Spoke to shops and they said it wasn’t a bad shock, it just had low clearance when landing off a jump. I sold it, and now I’m on a stumpy evo. And no peddle slaps on the same trails. I hope this newer HT model fixes those issues.
this trying looks dope
I have that experience with my Tallboy. Too much sag, or harsh high pressure. Can't find the sweet spot. I recently got the Megatower v2 and this is not an issue whatsoever. My guess is the same geo upgrade will improve the HT3 as well.
This is why I sold my V2 - I’m
Thinking Ripmo
@@shamrock4840 I’ve seen others on forums complain about this. At this point I feel like Santa Cruz should offer riders who bought a new v2 a discount on the v3 model. Looks like a design flaw to me.
@@arcadialive4265 flaw in V2 meaning you’re either too sagged or too stiff .
What a horrible ride - I don’t miss it .
Nice! It has SWAT box too!
Can’t complain about that.
Love the frame, hate the spec. I don't understand why SC chose to not offer a Shimano option or a frame only option.
You would expect it to have no flaws for the price being charged, which is why the previous model is a bit disappointing.
You did the SB130 vs Hightower video two years ago. Curious to hear your thoughts on this new Hightower vs the Yeti SB130LR you owned? Realize it’s not back to back reviews but still helpful.
It’s been a long time since I’ve ridden the 130. From memory, it climbs a lot like the new Hightower. They’re both really good climbers. Downhill I think the 130 feels a bit more quick and racy and the Hightower feels a little taller up front and a bit more confident.
@@bikersedge awesome thanks for the input
Looking at this and the gen 6 fuel ex. I like how the Hightower has appropriate stack height for the xl frame. Thoughts on those two bikes?
Haven’t ridden the trek. Can’t really say.
Hey Conor! Is there a chance to see a comparison video between Transition's Spire and Propain's Spindrift?
And the sentinel vs tyee
We don’t carry propain so we won’t be able to make those comparisons happen.
No Shimano build? And the mis matched suspension always triggers my ocd 🤣
Do you know why they use a fox fork and RockShox rear? Great review!
In the past I’ve heard it’s because they feel that at the price point the RS super deluxe is a better offering for the bike and it’s purpose. Not sure if that’s actually it or not.
The seat angle seems relatively unchanged and still seems fairly slack in pictures. Do you think the improved climbing performance is more related to the leverage curve rather than geometry? Was hoping for even steeper seat tubes
It certainly feels much steeper. I haven’t taken a protractor to the frame but I’d imagine the actual vs effective thing comes into play here quite a bit. I think the climbing performance comes down to a lot of factors across geo and suspension updates.
Hey Connor! How would you compare the new HT to the sj evo? I currently own the evo but I am tempted to switching over!
Not sure. We’re don’t carry specialized so I’ve haven’t spent much time on an Evo.
Hightower vs Revel Rail29 would be a great comparison video!
Just got my hands on a Rail today. Please hold.
@@bikersedge how do these compare now that you’ve had more time on these?
Great review! Have you ridden the Occam M10 LT and are there any comparisons you can share vs the V3 Hightower?
Haven’t ridden the LT. I did ride a regular one with the 150mm fork. I’d imagine they’re not all that different. The Hightower is a much more sure footed descender than the Occam.
@@bikersedge Thanks! Would you give the nod to one or the other for technical climbing?
@@thanft the Occam is probably going to be a bit more nimble for that stuff due to the shorter wheelbase. The Hightower is going to win on traction though.
@@bikersedge Thank you!
Amazing video game like terrain.
Do you think this edges the Ripmo?
I think it’s a more stout descender if that’s what you’re asking.
Putting geo of the HT3 vs MT2 in spreadsheet many numbers arent all that different. If you had to choose just one for all things from fire roads to DH gnar... with most riding deep in the middle between those extremes, which would it be? I'm thinking MT just because ynot. Thoughts?
A degree of difference in the head tube angle is pretty significant. The wheelbase are pretty different too. Even just those two things make the bikes feel very different on the trail. The Hightower is the more versatile option. The Megatower is better if you find yourself on rugged trails most of the time.
Hi! Will be this V3 much much better on the descents than a Spur? Probably Spur better climber? Or at least better in all day long ride, but my question is if will compensate this a bit more travel with probably more than 1 kilo between this to bikes.
Do you know if Transition will launch any improve over the Spur? Like 130 front..then the gap between HT will be less and still lighter and pedalling all day bike.
Thanks again
It’s much more competent on the descents than the Spur. They’re not even close really. The HT obviously pays a climbing penalty however. I don’t think it’s a huge penalty though.
Can’t really predict what Transition will do. I would imagine it’s a bit longer u til we see any changes on the Spur.
Hey Conner, I am wondering how you think the Hightower V3 now compares to the Tallboy. I was going to purchase a Tallboy as I prefer a trail-bike-ish ride feel over the mini enduro style of suspension, however it seems like the V3 might have most of the playfulness of the Tallboy with the capability to handle some of the rougher blacks and double blacks out here in NM.
I don’t think your assessment is wrong. The TB is still probably more fun and lively but I think the new HT is close.
@@bikersedge I bought the Hightower a few days ago and have taken it on a couple of my favorite trails. It is really strange how trail-bike it feels on the climbs. The front end feels super manageable and does not seem nearly as slack as it is. I think your assessment that the bike disappears underneath you is spot on, and it didn't take any finicky suspension dialing to get it there. I've done nothing so far but set up my sag and suggested rebound. On the descent, it still feels nearly as maneuverable and poppy as a Stumpjumper or Tallboy, just cranked up a notch. I felt most at home on the bike when I took it down Jagged Axe, a double black enduro race track, albeit a NM style race track, which means way more tech than speedy flow. It made easier trails very easy indeed, without removing all the fun of popping off rocks and drops. In short, it really does feel like a bike just about any mountain-biker can enjoy, and one that I don't foresee growing out of any time soon. It can handle way more than I can, but is very happy going wherever I take it. Your review very much reflects my experience on the bike, and having your thoughts on the bike helped me make a purchase I'm very happy with.
I hope we see a new tallboy soon!
That would be cool.
Me too!
Great video as always, thank you. The new Hightower looks really good too bad it's that pricy.
Hey thanks. Glad you liked it.
Great review. How would you compare the HighTower V3 against a Bronson V3?
Man it’s been years since I’ve ridden the V3 Bronson. I remember enjoying it but beyond that I’m not able to compare too much. Unfortunately I haven’t ridden the V4 yet either.
coming from a Bronson v3, I can say that the Hightower v3 really does climb a lot better, and in a more comfortable position. Dowhill that 29" wheels certainly make a difference but overall it is great and very very stable (I am at the low end of a size L)
Yoow! How would you compare the Hightower to a Sb130? Like in terms of climbing and overall thoughts? Thank you
I’d watch this one to see how it compares to the old Hightower and then go watch the older Hightower vs 130 video. That’s going to be your most in depth answer.
Great Review! How does the new Hightower compare to the Mullet Bronson?
I personally haven’t been able to ride that one so I can’t really say.
Looks the same no. Only the HT is lower a bit
Did you hava bottom kicks ?
Cool! I'm really curious where in Oregon this was?
Oakridge. Hit up Transcascadia Excursions to get some shuttles set up. Pedaling these trails would be rough. Even with a shuttle there’s quite a bit of climbing.
@@bikersedge Hey thanks for that info! wow, looks amazing. I need to plan a trip! :D
Wonder how much the new Super Deluxe has to do with the suspension improvement
I certainly don’t think it hurts but I’m a believer that the majority of what makes the suspension feel the way it does is the kinematics and design rather than the shock.
Feels like companies have 2 options now , tiny little tweaks to existing platforms or go high pivot. Have we seen peak geo, maybe 🤔.
Geo is getting really dialed. Suspension is only getting better too. I would not be a fan if everything went high pivot.
Still can not decide between Hightower and Megatower … pedalling up the hill a lot and riding difficult terrain (hiking trails in alps) but also bikepark few weekends a year.
I am scared that Megatower is too heavy.
I am scared that Hightower is not enough for bikepark laps.
If you're only riding the bike park a few weekends out of the year, you're probably going to be just fine with the Hightower.
How is it compared to the latest Orbea Rallon ? Thanks a lot for your reviews
Flip through the comments. I just compared the two earlier for someone else who asked. Probably one of the earliest comments if that helps you find it.
@@bikersedge thank man! Exact the information I needed:) no wonder regarding the slightly difference in head angle and chainstay length. Despite that, European prices do not allow my wallet a Santa Cruz…. Anyway I have a gravel bike and rather want something on the other end. So Rallon would make more sense. Maybe I keep my RM thunderbolt for in between instead of selling it
Oh man. I was dead set on the Niner Rip9 RDO being the perfect mix between climbing and playfulness, all the reviews have led me towards it, but SC is my fav bike maker and this seems like it's a direct equal to the Rip9. Would you agree? Should I take a closer look at the new Hightower?
Not very familiar with Niner. Wouldn't be able to say. I can say the Hightower is about as dialed as an all-mountain bike gets right now though.
I ran a RIP9 RDO for a while and it is a great bike, especially when updated with a coil as that progressive suspension curve really gets along with it. I think it is maybe a hair dated in geo, but still a great ride. That said, you should also check out the Canyon Spectral 29 if you are not against D2C brands, I have been blown away with my CF8 as an all mountain rig.
@@superawesomefuntimego I think my biggest concern is frame rigidity in the rear end; I dislike single pivot systems because just based on how I like to huck and jib I end up blowing rear shocks from time to time. One of the reasons of going for an RDO is because I am out riding bikes and climbing with my wife often and looking for something I can just play around with that climbs really really well. I think I'm decided on the RDO over the Megatower 3 though, despite my love for santa cruz bikes
@@8rett If you for sure go with the RDO, shoot me a message. I will be happy to share how I saved a TON on my 4 star build. Not sure if it will work still, but happy to share what worked for me.
Hello Conor, do you think i can get a similar suspension curve on my Hightower v2 with Megneg kit on Superdeluxe shock ? Thanks a lot for your excellent reviews 👍
Hey thanks for the kind words. I don't think a MegNeg is going to get you a similar curve. It might help a bit by letting you run a bit more air pressure without affecting the off the top sensitivity though.
Did you ride it in Hi or Low position ? I don't think you gave this information. Thanks
@@christophepoirier6663 both. Although Santa Cruz flip chips are barely noticeable these days. Very minor change.
Oh my gosh, I just realized that the front fender this bike sports is from ABS, the bike shop I work at in Santa Cruz! 😂 1:14
The folks from Santa Cruz only had kind things to say about the shop!
Only SC dealer in SC. Julia’s sold me two bikes (bought four SCs from ABS). Probably gonna order an HT3 frame from ya soon Julia. 😂
I’m 6’2” 205lb, what size should I get? I notice on their size chart, I’m right in that awkward bit between large and XLarge
According to the SC size chart you're in the XL range (not the overlap zone between L and XL). I won't give out specific size advice over the internet. It's a crapshoot without seeing you on the bike. I'll point you to our "what size bike should I buy" video and recommend you test one out if possible.
For reference, I'm also 6'2" and rode an XL very comfortably.
Hi, so, I've got a frame, now looking for a fork, thinking about Lyrik Ultimate, but confused about travel, on SC website it says that it's compatible with 150-160 mm travel. Spoke with one of the guys from Santa Cruz, and he said that 160mm would have a negative effect when climbing... What do you think? Should I get 150 or 160? Considering I'm a heavy guy that hates climbing... LOL
The bike comes stock with 150. The Santa Cruz guy isn’t wrong when he says the 160 fork will have a negative effect on climbing. It’s all about trade offs. If you feel the need for more travel (which I don’t think the bike needs) you can certainly run a 160.
@@bikersedge Thanks for your answer! Ordered 150 fork. :)
As always, loved the review!! Super cool bike, very desirable. But the prices!?!? Ouch, this is a very expensive toy with some questionable spec choices for the prices. 😎😉
Hey thanks. Gad you liked it!
@Joao Jose Leite ya, it's getting absolutely ridiculous at this point especially giving the component specs..haha
Hightower V3, Orbea Rallon or Revel rail 29 if I’m looking for an all-rounder bigger bike (in addition to a smaller aggressive XC bike) that can handle jumps, drops be nimble enough to climb tech, handle some bike park duty and still be a good option for a long road trip with tons of pedaling (assuming I was only bringing the big bike with me) and varried terrain?
The Rallon is going to be the most capable of the three. The HT and Rail are similarly “all-mountain.” I don’t have quite enough time on the rail 29 to really compare it to the HT.
@@bikersedge thanks! Which one do you pick if it’s your only bike and you’re moving around the country for work?
@@mitchelllawver6097 It’s tough to beat the versatility of the HT if you’re riding a ton of different terrain. I think all three will do the job pretty well though.
@@bikersedge thanks!
this thing looks sick.
It is sick.
Hightower, Smuggler, RM Instinct, or Ripmo for a one bike quiver to travel the west? Based in PNW but mellower than the typical stuff you might think of.
The HT and Ripmo sit on the all mountain side of that group with the instinct being the most balanced bike. The Smuggler is more on the trail side of things. If you’re riding mellower terrain you could easily get away with an instinct or smuggler. If you want to have your bases covered for tougher trails, the HT or Ripmo would be better.
@@bikersedge oh and the Fuel EX. Of those which is the most engaging and playful/poppy of the group? Looking for something with good mid-range support that likes to pump and play. Ripmo would likely be built up more like a long legged trail bike. Coming from a V3 Following and looking for a bit more capability.
Haven’t ridden the Trek. Can’t really say.
How does it compare to the RM Instinct?
Pretty similar I think. I think the instinct might be a bit more “trail”
So does this bike have the new special unicorn dust on rear suspension like the new megatower . Basically is it as noticeable as it is in the megatower v2 vs v1.
Great vid as always
It’s not the same feeling that the Megatower has. That bike is really plush and supple yet still has a lot of pop. The Hightower is way firmer throughout the entire stroke.
@@bikersedge gotcha so not much besides geo has truly changed since last model in the Suspension side of things.
@@chriscalomino5229 suspension is the biggest change over the previous version.
I'm looking to buy my first real mountain bike. Right now santa cruz have their sale going on. Is the V2 aluminum S good enough or the V3 S worth the extra cost. I live in Phoenix and will be coming from a marlin 5 so any bike is wonders. But not someone to buy new bike again and again. Thank you for any help.
Personally I would spend the extra on the v3. I think the suspension design is much better than the old one.
@Bikers Edge Thank you appreciate the response and the advice!
This is frustrating! I got the 2022 version in last October and they fixed my main complaints which have caused me to feel a twinge of regret. I recently dented a rim in the high setting despite being 10 psi over what's recommended for my weight with a pack on. It does feel better in low but I'm lightly pedal striking now.
How does suspension have anything to do with you denting your rim?
How does it compare to the pivot switchblade?
Not sure. We don’t carry pivot. Don’t know much about that bike.
I think I like Lapierre better! Beautiful Lapierre!
Hightower v3 vs Specialized Evo? :)
We don’t carry specialized. Haven’t ridden the Evo. Couldn’t really say.
how does this compare to the giant trance x 29er?
The Trance x sits in a weird spot between most other trail and all mountain bikes. The Hightower is squarely in the all mountain category.
What do you think about the Hightower 3 and the Sentinel now?
I think the sentinel is a more aggressive descender still and the Hightower is a better climber.
@@bikersedge I've been waiting for the HTv3, slightly disappointed in the no coil option...
I mainly ride forest trails, tight, jumpy stuff, plus the occasional uk bike park day (dyfi, Revs, etc..) torn between the sentinel and the htv3.
Can't get a demo on a sentinel and I'm a little worried about the slack head angle and loosing the front in the tight stuff.
Would of been nice to see photos of the new colorway before the trail threw up all over the bike ...great review though!
Thanks. I make an effort to shoot all the bikes covered in dust, dirt and mud. Don’t like to photograph them clean for some reason.
@@bikersedge I get it, looks amazing in its natural habitat. But a few high res shots looking new would help the users looking to purchase, especially in areas where bikes are still hard to find. Regardless, solid content, love the reviews.
@@mapimages hey thanks. Santa Cruz has some hi res photos of the bikes on their website. Al clean and shiny.
This bike's geo is identical to Bronson MX except its rear tire is 29
Not quite.
How does the Hightower v3 compare to an sb130?
Just answered that one in an earlier comment. Check those out.
How would you compare the new Hightower to the new Rallon?
Thanks
That’s a pretty good comparison. Even though the Rallon has way more travel I feel like the way they tackle trails is pretty similar. The Hightower rides a bit more like an all-mountain bike while the Rallon blurs the lines between all mountain and enduro in terms of capability.
@@bikersedge Thanks Conor.
Would you say both would do well as your only bike?
Yes. They’d both do great. The Hightower is probably more versatile in that regard.
Limited shock options. Too late to the party geometry update. Switchblade still on top.
So basically this is like the old high tower with cascade link. Got it.
Nah.
how does it compare to the Sentinel?
I think the Megatower is a little closer the the sentinel than this bike is.
How the hell you colour grade your videos so well?
I think it’s just the Hero 10. Colors are really good.
It’s a Meowntainbike 🦁🚲✨
Probably a mountain lion.
Is it possible to mullet
No. The Bronson would be the MX option there.
I just put the new float x rear shock on My V2 and wow what a difference 🤤🤤. They should’ve spec’d the V3 with it & the bike would be perfect 👌🏻😎
I think the super deluxe does a great job. I’m convinced that 90%+ of what makes the suspension feel the way it does is the bike and not the shock.
@@bikersedge yea just like the Baja trucks & dirt bikes ; it’s the truck & dirt bike not the suspension 🤓🥴. Love your reviews & channel 🤙🏻
@@eatnpooter1634 that analogy doesn’t quite work. Bikes have linkage designs rather than single pivots. The frame kinematics are going to overrule a shock for the most part.
Want
Same!
What does slacker mean
The head tube angle is slacker. Smaller angle.
Why so expensive?
:(
How tall are you? Inseam?
It’s in the video
G outs?
Big compressions
You guys SUCK!!! Literally watched your Mega Tower review about 12 times then you pull this $#!T. I probably only have one new bike day left in me so I don’t wanna screw that up. Do you guys offer some kind of counseling/bike decision making process?? Really respect you guys! You are my most anticipated subscribed CZcams channel! And I really would love your take on the Bronson mixed wheel Connor, I know, I know you haven’t road that one yet. I truly believe you have enough clout to get your hands on a Bronson and with the respect that your channel commands I’m sure I’m not the only subscriber that would love your thoughts on the Bronson. Thanks for all the effort you guys put into the stuff!
Haha. Glad we can help! I'm always happy to answer questions and help you find the right bike.
I'll get my hands on a Bronson at some point. Brock rode and reviewed it last year if you want to check that out. He did a great job.
Bike manufacturers need to quit mixing the suspension on complete bikes. There’s no reason for it. If you service your bike, you need the tools for each manufacturer. BREAK THE STIGMA.
Ha. Personally I don't mind mixed suspension. Use whatever works best and fits the application.
Just about to buy the Hightower 2 and then this happens 🤦🏻♂️
Snag a new one then!
I’m in South Africa 🇿🇦 In all likelihood we’ll only get it here in September… but worth the wait I guess, especially with the refined geo, that oxblood color and a glove box.
And the prices for shitty components?
Niceee...
No more alloy 👎🏻
Santa Cruz is a brand for the upper class lol I hate it
Nice bike! poor value
That's Santa Cruz for ya
My wallet hurts.
Mine has been hurting since I started mountain biking.
Man , The color schemes Santa Cruz creates suck !
I’ll arm wrestle you for that. They’re really nice.
@@bikersedge have you seen both in person? Which color would you go with the purple or green?
@@Sdm07120 yes. I’ve seen them both. I’d go green all day.
@@REB4444 Well , in contrast to that. Santa Cruz colors are almost all pastel . I feel like theres a point at which the colors are getting to fancy. I have a Tallboy , but the color is just ok in my opinion
With all due respect, this just doesn't seem like an honest review to me. It feels more like a delicately worded sales pitch. I would like more unguarded, blunt impressions and less rundowns of specs and industry trends.
Not super helpful.
Bummer you didn’t like it. I’m being 100% honest here.
Next time show more of the bike not your face!
What’s wrong with my face?