Santa Cruz Mountain Bikes

Skateboarding legends Rob Roskopp and Rich Novak joined forces in 1993 to produce a bike that would change the high-end mountain bike category for good. The result of their collaboration was the “Tazmon,” a single-pivot dual suspension bike with just 3” of travel. The Tazmon would become the first generation Santa Cruz mountain bike and jumpstart Santa Cruz into the brand we know and love 30 years later.

Today the Santa Cruz line of high-end mountain bikes features 12 models, with an option for everything from cross country to a World Cup downhill run by pros like Josh ‘Ratboy’ Bryceland and the Santa Cruz Syndicate. The brand’s hallmark full suspension design revolves around the VPP (virtual pivot point) suspension design which was purchased from Outland in 1999.Which Santa Cruz mountain bike you choose depends on how much suspension you need for the type of riding you plan to do most often.

Why Santa Cruz Mountain Bikes Are Worth the Hype

First things first - why Santa Cruz? Founded in 1993, this brand quickly rose to prominence due to its attention to detail, groundbreaking suspension technology, and high-quality build. Their bikes are designed for serious riders who demand performance without compromise. Whether you're tackling rocky descents or steep climbs, a Santa Cruz mountain bike will keep you feeling confident and in control.

One of the brand's standout features is its VPP (Virtual Pivot Point) suspension. This suspension design optimizes pedal efficiency and small bump sensitivity, which means you get a smoother ride, especially on full suspension models. If you’ve been on the fence about switching to a full suspension Santa Cruz mountain bike, let me tell you—it's worth every penny.

Key Features to Look for in a Santa Cruz MTB

When you start shopping for a Santa Cruz MTB, there are a few key things you’ll want to consider:

1. Frame Material

Santa Cruz offers bikes in both aluminum and carbon fiber. While aluminum frames are more affordable, carbon fiber frames are lighter and more durable, giving you better control and less fatigue on long rides. If you're aiming for high performance, I’d recommend going for carbon fiber. It’s pricier, but the benefits are massive.

2. Suspension

Santa Cruz specializes in full suspension mountain bikes, which are ideal for rough terrains and technical trails. Their VPP suspension system is incredibly efficient, offering a balance of sensitivity and stability that few other brands can match. Whether you're on a Santa Cruz MTB sale hunt or buying new, you’ll want to prioritize this feature if you’re serious about mountain biking.

3. Wheel Size

Wheel size is another factor that significantly impacts the performance of your Santa Cruz mountain bike. Most Santa Cruz MTBs come with either 27.5” or 29” wheels. If you prefer a nimble, playful ride, go with 27.5”. If stability and speed on rough terrain are more your thing, the 29” wheels are a better fit.

Santa Cruz MTB Models You Should Know About

1. Santa Cruz Bronson

The Bronson is one of the brand’s most versatile bikes. With 150mm of rear travel and 160mm on the front, this bike excels on both downhill descents and uphill climbs. If you're looking for an all-rounder that can handle both aggressive trails and more moderate rides, the Bronson is a solid choice.

2. Santa Cruz Nomad

Looking for a beast on downhill runs? The Nomad is your go-to. With a whopping 170mm of rear travel, this bike is built for those who like to charge hard and fast. It's not exactly ideal for long-distance pedaling, but if you love bombing down mountains, the Nomad is hard to beat.

3. Santa Cruz Tallboy

For riders who want a cross-country machine that can handle rough terrain without feeling sluggish, the Tallboy is a fantastic option. With 120mm of travel, it offers a great balance between efficiency and capability. It's perfect for those who want a Santa Cruz mountainbike that can handle both flowy trails and technical climbs.

Buying a Santa Cruz MTB on Sale: What to Look For

Let’s face it - Santa Cruz bikes aren’t cheap. But that doesn’t mean you can’t score a deal. When you’re hunting for a Santa Cruz MTB sale, keep an eye on reputable dealers, seasonal discounts, and demo models here on BikeExchange.

Additionally, buying last year’s model can save you a ton of money. Santa Cruz releases new models almost annually, but the changes from one year to the next are often minor. A 2023 model could offer nearly the same performance as the 2024 model, but at a fraction of the price. Check out our 2024 Mountain bike models.

Santa Cruz MTB: Full Suspension Benefits

If you’re new to mountain biking or on the fence about whether to get a full suspension bike, here’s what you need to know. Full suspension bikes, like those offered by Santa Cruz, are designed to absorb more shock and give you better control over rugged terrain. They’re especially beneficial for technical trails with lots of rocks, roots, and drops.

The VPP suspension on a Santa Cruz mountain bike is highly regarded because it offers a more consistent ride compared to other systems. It reduces the feeling of being “bounced around” while climbing and still gives you a plush feel when descending. This dual benefit makes Santa Cruz full suspension bikes ideal for riders who want a bike that can do it all.

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Santa Cruz Mountain Bike

Now that you’re sold on the brand, the next step is figuring out the right size. Getting the right frame size is crucial to enjoying your ride and avoiding discomfort. Santa Cruz makes sizing easy with detailed guides based on your height, but you should also consider your riding style. If you're more aggressive on trails, you might want to size down for better maneuverability. If you prioritize comfort on longer rides, sizing up could be a better option.

Final Thoughts: Is a Santa Cruz MTB Worth It?

In short: Absolutely. Santa Cruz bikes are built to last, with high-end materials and state-of-the-art suspension technology that sets them apart from the competition. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting into the sport, investing in a Santa Cruz MTB will elevate your riding experience. It’s an investment, but one that pays off in durability, performance, and pure riding joy.

Take a few minutes to explore our selection of Santa Cruz bikes in the United States. Discover why BikeExchange is your top source for everything bike! If you are having troubling choosing a Santa Cruz or have questions about a specific model, contact your local bike shop for expert advice.

FAQ About Santa Cruz Mountain Bikes

1. What makes Santa Cruz mountain bikes special?

Santa Cruz bikes are known for their high-quality materials, innovative VPP suspension system, and excellent build quality. These features make them ideal for tackling challenging terrains and providing a smoother ride.

2. Should I buy a full suspension Santa Cruz MTB?

Yes, if you ride on rough terrain or plan on doing technical trails, a full suspension Santa Cruz MTB will give you better control and comfort. The VPP suspension system in Santa Cruz bikes is one of the best in the industry.

3. Is carbon fiber worth the extra cost?

If you’re serious about performance, then yes. Carbon fiber frames are lighter, more durable, and provide better handling, especially on long, demanding rides.

4. Can I find Santa Cruz mountain bikes on sale?

Definitely! Keep an eye on seasonal sales, demo models, or previous year’s versions for a good deal. Check out our MTB sale to be up to date.

5. What size Santa Cruz mountain bike should I get?

It depends on your height and riding style. Santa Cruz offers detailed sizing charts, but generally, sizing down offers more agility, while sizing up provides better stability.