Santa Cruz Chameleon Review: Cheapest Santa Cruz MTB

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

I love the chilled, no-hype, style of your reviews.

[@bikersedge]

Thanks! Stoked you like them. There's a lot of yelling on the internet. I try not to contribute.

[@danielfloyd9742]

@@bikersedge Is that at fruit loops?

[@BronxCrypto]

This is THE BEST review of a bike I've ever watched! I like how you're talking off bike while showing the ride. You're talking about frame geo, position, traction, and ride characteristics all in context of the ride rather than just facing the camera and reading them off a list like most do. You covered all the important features and experiences that provide info with which to make a purchase decision. Nice work and keep it up!

[@bikersedge]

Wow, thanks! Glad you like the videos!

[@ThunderStruckMTB]

Those quick uncontrollable, guttural laughs while riding is why a Chameleon is my one and only bike. I'm 54 and been doing this sport since '87, and it just gets me back to what I consider mountain biking to be. My 29er 2019 Chameleon is a frame up build by me with all top end components (full AXS ect..) and comes in at 27.5 pounds. I'm 6' 210lbs and sliding the rear drop outs to their longest position was a game changer in terms of descending at speed. I have so much fun every single ride that I literally can't imagine buying a new bike any time soon. I service my Pike Ultimate every 3 months, clean and lube my drivetrain every ride and she just keeps on going creak free and with no drama. Any way, I loved this review and your honest opinions on it, and most importantly, I liked how you entered the review with an open mind..... Great channel!!

[@bikersedge]

Thanks for the feedback. Glad you liked the video and that you're digging your chameleon!

[@vitaflo]

Totally agree with extending the dropouts. I have a 2021 Chameleon and when I maxed the dropout length it totally transformed the bike. Way more stable at speed.

[@Doty6String]

I’ve got my dropouts slammed forward. I adore the playful feel. And I have good bike control from being on a bmx for so long in the past. It’s a lovely frame!

[@dansartin]

Nice review. I recently got the MX version and it’s been a blast. I’m coming from a totally opposite background having been exclusively riding an older 26” Chameleon for the last 12 years, this new one feels a lot larger and more stable than what I’m used to. It does feel nice and balanced whether climbing or descending.

[@bikersedge]

Great to hear!

[@Doty6String]

I know what mean. I think you end up adapting to that geometry. At first I couldn’t get that damn front wheel Up! I find it to have excellent handling though. It corners on rails.

[@marioguel6979]

I have this bike. I also have the 2019 Bronson. I pick the Chameleon over the Bronson every time. It’s such a fun bike and mashes. I upgraded to a 140mm fork and the new SC 35mm rise bars. Funnest bike I’ve ridden in years.

[@havefunbesafe]

I ended up selling my Bronson CC for a 2021 Chameleon C...no regrets. Definitely suits my riding style better!

[@erniecap5037]

I also have a 2019 Bronson but am considering the SC 5010 or Chameleon...any recommendations are appreciated 👍🏽

[@thescandiflick]

I really like the simplicity of your videos and super chilled tone , thumbs up and a new subscriber. Keep it up 👌🏼

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. Glad you like them!

[@ThunderStruckMTB]

O M G!! You did it! A hardtail! And not just any hardtail but a Lizard. I just wanted to say thank you before I even watch it.

[@bz1429]

Well done! Love the usual content but hardtails are the best bang for the buck and great for most riders!

[@bikersedge]

Couldn’t agree more.

[@JCintheBCC]

When I was shopping for a new bike last Spring (yeah, I know, awful timing), I started by looking at hardtails for cheaper options. I was surprised to see how comparable FS and HT bikes have become in price, and this Chameleon is a great example of that. A full NX build (Chameleon R) is listed at $2949. A full Deore build of something like a Ibis Ripley AF (also 130mm fork, also Aluminum frame, comparable component level) is $3199. You save about 2 lb. and just under 8% off the price. I have a HT because I like to ride a HT sometimes, but I wouldn't recommend it to someone looking to get into the sport cheaper than a FS. (Edit: No HT slander intended here, maintenance is a cost saver for the HT, for sure. I just remember being told point blank by a number of people "You should start with a HT, since they are way cheaper.")

[@joelhenderson3723]

To be fair, the chameleon is pretty high-priced for what it is. There are a number of quality hardtails that really are much cheaper than full suspension bikes with comparable specs. I did get a chameleon this year, and honestly love it. But I think I also would have been happy with the new Trek Roscoe, or Nukeproof Scout.

[@robralph1669]

@@joelhenderson3723 The Chameleon is the bike I wanted but out of my price range right now. I lucked out and stumbled across 2 Roscoe's (2021) that I couldn’t pass up ($1500-both) and they’re perfect for what I need

[@joelhenderson3723]

​@@robralph1669 The Roscoes are cool bikes, too! Their spec is quite a bit better for the money. The main reason that they weren't my first choice is that I had my heart set on a chameleon since before they were redesigned, and 140mm is a bit more travel than I wanted for a hardtail.

[@DD-lb8vk]

Will be adding one to park next to my 2007 Blur LT that still rides like new. Love Santa Cruz.

[@bikersedge]

Enjoy!

[@fritz2934]

This video proofs that my riding style is not limited as much by my old 3x8 hardtail but rather by my skill haha

[@bikersedge]

I mean a modern full-squish bike would certainly help, but a hardtail is awesome for learning proper technique.

[@jdg9359]

Had the last model carbon chameleon with nx system, fox 34 shocks and 27x5 2.9 wheels. Awesome trail bike but stiff as hell ride. I do a mixture of trail and city riding so I needed something less aggressive with more zip, so I sold it. Got a BMC twostroke AL 29er. Much better ride for what I do.

[@markthoeny1370]

I've been looking at this bike for a while and your review makes me want to buy it now more than ever so this fall I will buy myself a new chameleon

[@bikersedge]

Do it! So good.

[@claytonjessup6163]

That’s awesome 😎! So glad that you did a SC lizard ! I ride the V7 of the chameleon. The one right before this version.

[@bikersedge]

Right on!

[@frank8278]

The Nukeproof Scout Pro 290 is 100$ more expensive and has a Rockshox Lyrix and full SLX drivetrain and SLX 4 POT brakes plus other high end parts. Also its geometry is the best when it comes to aggressive hardtails. The Chameleon looks nice but is highly overpriced. The Scout 290 Pro beats it in every aspect.

[@zed5129]

You mean every aspect on paper

[@kiethpederson7558]

Been setting my heart on the fuse expert which is 2499.99 today but is hard to find, but this may change my mind

[@Alexdzone]

What alternatives are there compared to that? I see that many say that it is too expensive for what it offers (out of the brand) so what do you recommend?

[@Hydun]

Yeti arc would be the next step probably

[@sksinha1]

Sold my 2020 Santa Cruz 5010C, even though I loved it to death, because I always found myself grabbing my 2021 Chameleon. Hardtails are just more challenging and fun to ride, and the Chameleon does everything for me well and is still way beyond my abilities. I may never go back to an FS again!

[@bikersedge]

I do enjoy the challenge of riding all my normal trails on the hardtail.

[@IamBerbatov]

Seriously thinking about doing a build. The frame is £799 in UK. Just not sure on the set up yet, which drop outs etc

[@IamBerbatov]

I’d be going with sram gx groupset. Maybe even push the boat out and go for axs

[@bikersedge]

I'm a 29" guy, but MX could be really fun on this bike.

[@SolRayz]

I need a raise if this is budget friendly.

[@cezarh5473]

Nice review, id say that the stoic 4 is even better in terms of price and specs ratio

[@samangelo2208]

I know it was a while ago, but how does this compare to the norco torrent you reviewed a few years back?

[@MM-qv5lf]

Nothing wrong with the drivetrain, it's not a bottom level bike shop brand, it's excellent quality parts, unless you're a mtb snob with endless supply of money. At that price point, this bike is TOP NOTCH awesome parts.

[@TheBraveLlama]

Wish people would stop prefacing hardtail reviews with a price factor. MANY of us ride hardtails as a style choice that has nothing to do with price. Need to start looking at hardtails as preferential approach rather than a "budget" option.

[@bikersedge]

I rode my hardtail once a week even though I have plenty of other bikes in the garage. Just happens that this is the cheapest bike we’ve reviewed. Seemed like an interesting point to call out.

[@TheBraveLlama]

@@bikersedge unfortunately it’s common though for people to frame hard tails as a “budget option.” That’s the first thing that gets brought up and the way they’re primarily perceived by the community rather than a design unique from that of a full suspension, that stands on its own merits, and has something different to offer. That’s why passionate hard tail riders choose them. Hard tails are cheaper because they have a simpler frame and components but that price shouldn’t be what defines them. I own this bike and love it and everything you said about what it has to offer is on point. I’m glad to enjoyed it! I’m just on a mission to try to get people to recognize the hard tail as a legitimate riding style choice rather than a budget choice.

[@kiethpederson7558]

Also, this bike looks really fun where he’s riding I think if you came to New England where I am I might be different with all the ups and downs. It’s crazy roots and rocks.

[@bikersedge]

I don’t think this bike is going to pay a penalty on ups and downs. It would be great in NE.

[@kiethpederson7558]

@@bikersedge I couldn’t tell from the video if you don’t mind me asking was this the d version? Only reason I ask was I’m nervous about the fork and brakes wondering if I should possibly go up to the r version or stick with this and upgrade later . Basically is it worth the extra $500 for the components it would come on the next model up or can I get better components separately with that 500

[@mtbeliever5833]

Was that Follow footage of you? Dude in red shirt? Dude, ripper! Didn’t know you rode so well. Can’t really tell on POV. Can we get more of that kind of footage?

[@bikersedge]

The baby giraffe in the red shirt is me. I'll try to get more follow cam stuff in there. It's tough because I do most of these videos by myself.

[@marksandoval5361]

Please give us a review of the new $1700 Trek Roscoe for comparison?

[@bikersedge]

We don’t carry Trek. Won’t be able to make it happen.

[@christianshauntvideos6728]

Trek Roesco 9 or this? Something that would get a mix of green to maybe blue trails but also some street rides when I Don’t have time to hit the trails. Right now I have the GT aggressor pro and I think it’s time to upgrade.

[@bikersedge]

Not too familiar with the Roscoe. We don’t carry Trek. Sorry I won’t be much help here.

[@TheJones_AZ]

Great review.

[@bikersedge]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@davidross5138]

Awesome review thanks for all the info! Do you mind sharing what size frame you were riding? (I'm also 6-2, 190)

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. Glad you liked it. XL and I’m 6’2”

[@rlopez9044]

Great video man, please help me with this question, I am also 6” 2’ and I want to pull the trigger buying the same model you tried, did you ride L or XL ?? Thank you. 👍

[@bikersedge]

I’m 6’2” and have an XL

[@stevebennett3587]

👌🤔very nice ride, just out of curiosity, could the wtbi30 rims cope with the abuse?👍

[@bikersedge]

They’ve held up for me so far. I run a lot of air in my tires though. That certainly helps.

[@desperado5897]

Thanks for the review. What size did you have in this? Also, from your time riding this bike do you think it would be a good long term option for moderate trails and bike packing?

[@bikersedge]

I have an XL. I would be the last guy to ask about bike packing as I've never really tried it. I can say it's great for trail riding though.

[@desperado5897]

@@bikersedge thanks man. I’m looking for a good beginner bike for my interest. Trying not to brake the bank but still get a good reliable bike.

[@bikersedge]

This would probably fit the bill. A decent full suspension MTB would be good too if you can make it fit the budget. Giant Trance X or something similar would be great.

[@MrMJJ23]

All these Chameleon reviews popping up all of a sudden. Santa Cruz must be paying gooooood

[@bikersedge]

My check must have gotten lost in the mail then.

[@chrisginoc]

I found a used Chamelon 6 for $650, but it has Magura MD100 shocks which I would need to replace. What are your thoughts on a used Chameleon?

[@bikersedge]

I mean whatever best fits the budget and what you want to ride is what I recommend

[@immortalduffman]

I have been considering one of these for longer epic days as I already have a transition sentinel. I want a second bike to introduce people into the sport as well. Contemplating this bike or the transition spur. Does the chameleon allow for fat tires? If I could put fat tires on it for winter riding it would be perfect for a second bike. If not would 27.5 plus tires with studs work?

[@bikersedge]

My daily driver is a Sentinel. I think the Chameleon is an awesome addition. It doesn’t allow for fat tires. You might be able to clear a 27.5 with studs. I don’t see the rear being an issue but the fork could potentially pose some problems.

[@jeffgiles4330]

How do we get trail systems like Fruit Loops and The Farm in every city?? Seriously so good!

[@bikersedge]

So good.

[@normalrat]

Still cant get past the value (or lack thereof) of these builds.. What they attempt to sell you for $2400 is just unreal compared to some of the other options that are (debatably) available. I'm not really sure if the brand name is gonna make up for that for a lot of people. As a frame only though, It's definitely attractive and something I am absolutely considering, seems really quiet from the ride highlights and of course frame quality is gonna be unparalleled. Great review and riding as always!

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks. Glad you liked the video. Curious to hear which bikes offer a way better value than this. Most of what I've seen out there is at least in the same ballpark.

[@normalrat]

​@@bikersedge Growler, Roscoe, Nukeproof Scout, or a Ragley would be my choice if I were in the market for a full build. It's also worth mentioning that I don't really like SRAM, especially their lower-end stuff, so that absolutely has an effect on my value perception of a lot of the Santa Cruz models. We could also go on all day about how the availability of some of these competitors may affect their perceived value, but personally I have waited many months for a new bike before and I would be willing to do it once more. Of course, I know a lot of people who are now riding Specialized bikes that might not have the best components for the money simply because they weren't willing to wait for something else. Again though, since I'm only in the market for a frame, I'd absolutely be willing to fork up the cash to get the chameleon. The geo is spot on and the yellow is a fantastic color.

[@bikersedge]

The growler does look pretty rad. RM doesn’t mess around.

[@normalrat]

@@bikersedge The Growler is a treat!

[@ryanb2883]

@@bikersedge or, very similar to the Nukeproof Scout - the Vitus Sentier. I got my Deore build for $1,200. I personally like the X-fusion fork more than this entry level rockshox fork, and I owned both

[@CoolWhipp911]

I'd love to see more hardtails on the channel. Maybe an ARC for comparison?

[@bikersedge]

I’ll do it if I can get one.

[@CoolWhipp911]

@@bikersedge Would you want to borrow my XL 2021 XT build?

[@bikersedge]

Obviously! You in Utah?

[@CoolWhipp911]

@@bikersedge Ya I am, how can I get in contact?

[@bikersedge]

Send me an email at [e-mail]. Would be rad to make it happen.

[@archietamayo76]

i have a 2022 trance advance x ebike. I tried a large 29er 2022 Chameleon and I find the reach kinda small. Do you think the xl is more comparable to a large trance e? i couldn’t find an xl to sit on.

[@bikersedge]

Unfortunately I couldn't tell you. I haven't tried the L Trance E.

[@archietamayo76]

@@bikersedge did u feel that the xl chameleon is somewhat small?

[@bikersedge]

@@archietamayo76 I don’t.

[@jerrielister]

The frame and rear hub is secured only with two bolts. Does anyone have any problem with it? Why is it designed that way?

[@bikersedge]

Because it’s an adjustable/convertible dropout.

[@benjaminkossick4414]

Seriously considering this bike. Your review was super helpful and trails are similar to what I ride. Can I ask what size you rode in this video? I'm 6' 185, rode a large and it seemed super cramped. Am I crazy for considering the XL? IF you are 6'2 and rode a Large, did it leave you curious about the the XL? Thanks so much, Shred on!

[@bikersedge]

I rode the XL. I make a point to not give out specific size advice over the internet. It’s a crapshoot without seeing someone on the bike. According to the SC size chart you’re on a L. But personal preference is a big deal when it comes to sizing.

[@lr7815]

I'm 6'2'' and have an XL, it's perfect

[@treytonbradham6699]

@@lr7815 im 6'2 but only 150 should I get the large or XL?

[@lr7815]

Its based on your inseam, you should go to a bike store and try out both sizes

[@Windband1]

So it looks like there's no frame only option, is that the case? I just need the frame... Cheers.

[@bikersedge]

I don't think it's available in the US

[@Windband1]

@@bikersedge Thank you.

[@kennyflynn186657]

What would you think about it compared to a rosco

[@bikersedge]

Not sure. Haven’t ridden that one.

[@buckrogers5808]

I'm 6 foot, half inch 32 inch leg my bike shop has a large frame coming do you think it would fit me?

[@bikersedge]

Size advice over the internet is a crapshoot. Your best bet is to sit on one and rest it out.

[@buckrogers5808]

@@bikersedge Thnx, but where I'm at that's not going to happen for awhile.

[@juluisreyes9094]

Damn..it is still a dream bike dude..

[@aaronkolva9331]

What mudguard are you running on the front?

[@bikersedge]

Groundkeeper

[@aaronkolva9331]

@@bikersedge Thanks!

[@tonyparkin3379]

Tried the carbon HT chameleon after a 5010. Unfortunately the carbon made it very uncomfortable.

[@mathewmccabe2658]

Tire pressure

[@wowitsseamus1]

what trail is this? It looks fun

[@bikersedge]

Fruit Loops and the Farm

[@shaun1900]

Too expensive for an Alloy frame and build kit - plenty of options from Trek, Nukeproof and Commencel to start with.

[@bikersedge]

There might be some other options with better pricing but I’d bet most of those don’t have the versatility of this frame. It’s really not that much more expensive than other similarly specced hardtails including direct to consumer brands.

[@nawaal4452]

Trek Procaliber, any day

[@outt3n]

I think the platform of this bike is good, but I do not think it is good value. Maybe just me, but I'm getting hung up on the base level on essentially every component at this cost, feels like there is much better value elsewhere.

[@bikersedge]

There are a few bikes that are cheaper but they’re not all that much cheaper. Also I’d argue the versatility of the chameleon justifies the couple hundred extra.

[@tonybasoni8443]

Nice job. For me, I will stick with suspension on both ends. Buying a hardtail is like buying a car without air conditioning in Arizona, or a car without a heater/defroster in Salt Lake City. Are you heading down to the True Grit race in Santa Clara in a couple of weeks?

[@bikersedge]

I’ve done true grit once. That was enough. #deathtofitness

[@tonybasoni8443]

@@bikersedge ,....I agree. It is insane. I am impressed that you have done it. That is no easy feat. I will check is out as my new home is just a few houses down from the start/finish. Should be a good time. Was hoping to get to say hello to you in person.

[@kylefishmoore]

It's like your talking in a library. Need to speak up. Good review 👍

[@bikersedge]

IS THIS BETTER?

[@SJ-ef4pv]

Ride on like a boss over that snow in the corners ..

[@bikersedge]

It’s maybe a little less sketchy than it looks in video. Wasn’t too bad.

[@revscare77]

what fender is that?

[@bikersedge]

Groundkeeper

[@mjayson30]

This or the roscoe 8?

[@bikersedge]

Not sure. Not at all familiar with that bike.

[@iirohakkarainen2564]

Cool review, like your style! Whats the mudguard?

[@bikersedge]

Hey thanks! I appreciate it. It’s a Ground Keeper Fender.

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

I remember a few years ago laughing at how expensive the Chameleon was for a bike with such low spec components. Fast forward a few years and now most hardtails are crazy expensive. None the less, for about $1k less than the top spec alloy Chameleon you can buy a Specialized Fuse with better or equal components and a far, far superior frame. I've ridden both and would take the Fuse all day long, while saving a bunch of money.

[@bikersedge]

Not sure that's the case. I just looked - a comparable Fuse is $2300. I'd take the Heckler geo over the Fuse all day.

[@bikersedge]

Ahhh. You said top tier models. I was looking at this level build. True the specialized is cheaper. I’d still take the geo on this one all day.

[@yasonkkk8344]

How is the fuse a better frame lol

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

@@yasonkkk8344 lighter, better welds, superier components, 30% cheaper when you buy the top spec

[@quantumcreator8888]

Riding steel even better .. the Kona Honzo ESD

[@dubblearr7622]

👍🏼

[@bikersedge]

🤘

[@davidross8233]

So cool that this is full 29. I’m already tired of hearing the word mullet.

[@bikersedge]

Well it does both but I’m a 29 or die kind of guy.

[@lukasbormann4830]

You guys forgot the Jackal Dirtjumper , thats a cheaper frame lol

[@bikersedge]

I was waiting for this comment. Frame vs bike. The jackal isn’t offered in a complete. Doesn’t count.

[@Abendrotchiller]

2400? Budget friendly? It has shitty parts for that price range. I’d go nukeproof scout comp 275

[@miltonbobadilla7486]

You guys should do polygon bikes. There are no good reviews for them.

[@bikersedge]

We don’t carry them at the shop. Won’t be able to make it happen.

[@ernestolahom8527]

Yehbahhh😘👊tamesss😍

[@TheArfabrizio]

Hardtail… something new

[@TreyHD]

I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.

[@arch417powersports]

Oof. I would never pay $3k for a hardtail.

[@bikersedge]

Except it's not 3k. It's 2400.

[@juki1x]

2400 cheapest bike...yeah im out!!!

[@jamesw1791]

The hardtail fad is kind of like The Fat Bike fad for a minute. They are using it to gin up some cash on overpriced bikes. And there's nothing like going down a Rocky Trail on a hardtail. LOL. I think we should go back to the model A Ford too.

[@bikersedge]

Ha. I don’t really see it as a step backwards. Just a different approach to mountain biking. I’ll take my full squish most every day, but the hardtail is really fun on certain trails.

[@jaycos5978]

I’ve never had a full squish and I never will. Different strokes for different folks.🤫

[@bikersedge]

This 👆🏼

[@jamesw1791]

I still have my old specialized Hardrock. I think I spent like 250 or 300 dollars for it. That was big money back in the day.

[@Ceemysix]

@@jaycos5978 I agree. It all hinges on expectations and how/where you ride. So many people just want to point it downhill and huck. Full squish? Yeh, no doubt. For simplicity, and all the reasons I’m out on a bike HT all day every day. Fattie in the snow months.

[@andrewbarefoot9444]

Iron your shirt bro 😅

[@bikersedge]

You're lucky I even put one on.

[@eddiearcadian8054]

Budget friendly??😂😂😢

[@ChopperChad]

Did you snatch that shirt from underneath a cat and put it straight on? I know the look, cause that’s how I do it.

[@bikersedge]

We're dog people at my house, but yes.

[@TheArtsvk]

Oke oke I have been waiting for my new nomad CC frame since 02/2021. Instead of selling frames, SC should wake up and solve exists warranty & replacements... 13 months....

[@bikersedge]

If it makes you feel any better, I ordered a bike from a different company almost a year ago and I still don't have it. I work in the industry too. It's not a problem exclusive to Santa Cruz. Everyone is struggling.

[@pepeanza6187]

Maybe buy the frame only and make your own build is better

[@bikersedge]

That almost always ends up being less cost effective.

[@pepeanza6187]

@@bikersedge no if you have components from other bikes

[@bikersedge]

@@pepeanza6187 well sure. A house is pretty cheap if you already have a roof, floor and walls…