Santa Cruz Megatower Review: Even More Mega | 2022 Enduro Field Test

[@bc.kromis]

I really think that pinkbike needs to start getting the mid level version of every test bike. That's what most people will be buying and different suspension can completely change the feeling of a bike.

[@zombie981_]

mid range for this Megatower is still 8.5k usd, that's a shitload of money for most riders

[@Windband1]

I think they're just given the bikes, but also SC are stupid expensive.

[@gravitybass]

The $11K price tag is hilarious. That's how much my ebike and my park bike cost combined.

[@bc.kromis]

@@Windband1 yeah I work at a Santa Cruz dealer. Extremely expensive, but to be fair the bikes ride really well.

[@Windband1]

@@bc.kromis They do review well overall, but for that money it should be the "greatest bike I've ever ridden", and the PB crew was def NOT feeling that.

[@itsvelan_]

I picked up a mega v2 right after the launch and everything in this review is spot on. Running the x2 in the rear is definitely harsher than desired most of the time. Even after playing with every setting and pressure the best it felt was “ok”. I was pretty disappointed considering the amount these things cost. I eventually put a DHX2 on it and it’s like a completely different bike. So much traction, no weird harshness or chattering. It still maintains the poppy lively feel that can slap corners but can also absolutely plow. After dialing in my component setup this will be my enduro race rig/park bike indefinitely.

[@RookYZRM1]

That harsh initial stroke has been a VPP feature forever, still the only solution is a coil...I think it's partly due to the inherent characteristic of air shocks and partly the VPP, glad to hear the coil's still a solution.

[@LastAphelion]

its weird I don't get how another reviewer was saying its ooey gooey plush almost like it was a different bike

[@ErichVonCartmann]

my experience is this is one of the plusher X2s I have ever owned. For me I did NOT feel that much harshness with the X2 as you experienced. I was able to get the shock tuned to the way I wanted, I am running 10 psi less in the shock, and backed out all the damping knobs, and now my Mega is Plush the way I want, but yet still playful and poppy.

[@itsvelan_]

@@ErichVonCartmann Glad to hear yours worked out! I think a couple factors contributed to my situation. One my locals trails are extremely steep, blown out, and rocky which I think a coil is better on by default. Secondly I’m definitely a lighter rider, even with minimal damping it was either too stiff off the top with my preferred 28% sag or taking a little pressure out made the bike ride too deep into the travel all the time even with tokens. I think an x2 can work great it just depends on the trails, and rider weight/style of riding.

[@averageinternetuser6463]

@Velan S I'm running 30 psi less than recommended to get the 28% sag, as a light rider, measured in both attack position and seated. It's very plush and with rebound adjusted, just as poppy. I had to increase the compression to account for the lower psi. And running the fork at 27-28% also made the bike feel amazingly balanced. I agree with your thoughts, it depends on the rider and the local trail. The MT2, seems less sensitive to suspension setup but still the sweetspot zone is narrower than other bikes I've owned. If one spends some time dialing in the shock and the fork, the harshness can be tuned out, it just matter of getting into the narrow sweetspot zone. Happy trails!

[@TheCL296]

Been riding crap bikes all my life, all secondhand. After years of grinding now I’m finally able to comfortably buy myself a bike. I just picked up the Megatower XO1 in the same color as the one in this vid. So excited for it to come in!

[@brandonfederico2442]

Getting rid of my AXS because the clutch is so loose. SRAM needs to figure this out. I had a quiet bike until I swapped to AXS. I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one complaining about this.

[@jadeloff5557]

Do you have GX, XO1, or XX1. Curious cause I just got xx1 axs and hope it doesn't have the same problem.

[@HeyBaumeister]

What are you switching to? My regular GX is pretty noisy too but heard AXS is even worse...

[@mikegeddie2263]

Sram drivetrains are garbage

[@deanemberley2333]

@@mikegeddie2263 they work fine cupcake

[@mikegeddie2263]

@@deanemberley2333 ok…the clutch is weak, and I’m on my third mech. They are finicky, but if you rode actual gnar and bike parks, you would know this cupcake

[@jimm244]

I like Santa Cruz and have access to several. They are, generally speaking, excellent all rounders that are very good at just about everything, though not the best or any one thing. It used to be that they were expensive but attainable, especially the S-builds. With the most recent price hike, they’re all pretty ludicrously priced.

[@andremtb480]

It's not that bad if you do a frame swap on a bike you already bought. Sell your old frame and it's a ~$1500 upgrade.

[@think1up123]

So the big question for pinkbike, is this bike $5399 better than the Commencal?

[@rideordie5377]

I bet Commencal is better !

[@shrimpquarantine1741]

@@rideordie5377 After hearing what they said about the SC I'm guessing the Commencal is better.

[@JZippster]

I bought the R build. Not by choice, it was the only build my local shop could get for me. After my first ride the upgrade list started. Wheels, brakes, suspension and drive train. I’m still waiting for the fork damper, coil shock and crank. Total build will end up to be around 10,000 but it will have all the components I like to use. It’s not the cc frame but I can’t tell the difference anyway. The bike is way more predictable at speed and enjoys getting tossed from side to side. Also every time I take it out it feels better and better. Times just keep getting faster. Might not work for everyone but it works for me

[@mrfaffer-c3q]

@@JZippster yo I got that build to are you getting the charger 3 damper ? I Hurd they use different thread pitch so you can't upgrade but id it works im getting me some butter cups!! also new RockShox coil is fkn worth the $500

[@JZippster]

@@mrfaffer-c3q that’s the plan. I also have a 180 zeb on a backup bike, so if it doesn’t work out I’ll probably swap the two forks. I’m glad to hear you like the new rockshox coil, that’s what’s on the way. Did you changed anything else?

[@willlange9978]

Next level review with the expert insight needed to spend $11K. But I can’t stop looking at the varnish drips on the front of the desk 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@RYZ25008]

Wait wait wait… are y’all seriously comparing an ELEVEN thousand dolla bike, with a 5k Commencal???? What in tarnation?

[@isidromuniz96]

And I bet that Commencal still better.

[@rideordie5377]

@@isidromuniz96 agree

[@th_js]

@@isidromuniz96 If it doesn't crack

[@owenr2413]

Bruh🤦‍♂️the commencal is using top of the line suspension and so is the mega tower, they’re not comparing the bikes based off the spec so as long as they’re using comparable suspension it really does come down to the bike

[@baizboi]

Your paying an extra 5 grand because it has a Santa Cruz label on it. Same with brands like specialized

[@ljuracz]

Switching from the Enduro, I wanted a bike that is a bit less plush and has better support for pedaling and I am not disappointed. It also corners better and the upright pedaling position is great.

[@anthonyalicea1796]

What about descending?

[@ljuracz]

@@anthonyalicea1796 pretty good, no big differences. Both are chunk eaters, definitely not holding me back. Btw: last week I added a coil shock for a bike park wknd - which also extends the travel to 170. Definitely recommend the coil from smoothness perspective.

[@anthonyalicea1796]

@@ljuracz Did you get the coil with a santa cruz tune? or just aftermarket?

[@ljuracz]

@@anthonyalicea1796 Not SC-specific, I actually got the Superdeluxe Ultimate 230x65, which is also a bit more travel.

[@v3jc3ST]

Hello Pinkbike, very much thanks for this test! I expected better verdict (over this price tag and famous maker). So on the end I am going to order Orbea Rallon. Frame for 27.5" and 29", customs colours and much more familier price tag. Santa Cruz is in Europe overprized cca 20% more as in USA.

[@Windband1]

Good call.

[@MoreToysMoreNoise]

I own this bike and absolutely amazing just in the S Build . Things shreds at the bike park and after some tinkering with the suspension rides awesome. I totally enjoy my 10k bike and get a lot of compliments when i take her out... Hey It's only money and you can't take it with you , cheers!!

[@yohidai]

They had true smiles as talking about grips of 11k bike. I will get them on 6k bike.

[@filipvaclavovsky7405]

10k USD is price of brand new KTM EXC 250-F including tax. Seriously, i would rather buy motorcycle fort his amount of money

[@mothraman3195]

Ha! $11K WTF??? Sorry, I heard 5th place and that's a big enough con for me, FO Santa Cruz

[@kleinkurti]

So based on the aftermarket prices of the components you pay about 5000 USD for the frame without a shock. No thank you

[@steve_troy]

I'm really just here for the slo-mo shots of Alicia riding. She's an absolute ripper on the bike!

[@Windband1]

Super good rider for sure!! Hitting some big features damn.

[@joehoeper4648]

Creepy....

[@abastabul9115]

What a lively tester.

[@Tricktwo]

I own, the V1 and I love the Bike it is a great all around Bike(though probably not the plushest). But I don‘t like the direction SC is going, they realy lack on the aluminium frames ( especialy aloy with good specs) and the prices are getting ridicules. You can blame shortage of Components and Pademics all day long, but they realy only cater to Dentists lately…

[@ASAP2525]

Hopefully they don’t just become another yeti maybe next year they will come out with alloy versions of the Bronson and mega tower

[@Tricktwo]

@@ASAP2525 I hope so! But since they have their own Carbon Factory, I doubt it…

[@bigwave7207]

Agree. The brand has always been expensive but their base model aluminum models were good deals for the level of quality in the design. Recently they jacked prices and only do carbon frames. I bought two last year but they I wouldn’t buy another at these prices.

[@likeaboss882]

I agree. I’m all for well-spec’d alloy bikes. Absolutely the best bang for the buck! The direction of SC doesn’t seem like a good one….

[@CalgaryDynastar]

@@likeaboss882 Having lifetime warranty on my wheels and frame is a terrible direction to have gone… Theres plenty of other companies out there that sell aluminum frames if that’s what you want. Judging from their sales and product representation on the trails, I think you guys saying they’re “headed in the wrong direction” may be out of touch… The dentist thing is played, some of us are just passionate about our bikes and justify the cost with proper components, my bike is 3x the value of the car I use to take it to the trails.

[@tinshield]

Sounds like a typical Fox X2 ride characteristic. Dead and harsh unless big hits. At least that is how it will feel until it cavitates and you have to send it back.

[@DM-hw4cr]

Absolutely agree. And you need to send it in to Fox for service.Switched my X2's to DVO Topaz. 🙂

[@tinshield]

@@DM-hw4cr I just picked up a 2023 Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate. Just one long ride on it but very impressed so far.

[@laurynasjagelo5075]

dunno, got the dpx2 and its pretty good. Glad didn't get the x2 (was tempting!)

[@tinshield]

@@laurynasjagelo5075 DPX2 rides better than the X2 for trail riding as well. I think X2 is overkill for many.

[@mrvwbug4423]

It depends on the bike too. Same shock on the RM Altitude feels downright lively, it's like a coil, it needs a progressive linkage to feel lively. SC is usually about midway between progressive and planted

[@tahoeebikes]

2:1O ON THE MAGIC CARPET WOOOO

[@chrisrouleau514]

After racing the last two EWS races on the east coast, I was shocked by the number of people who were racing the V2 Mega! I must have seen 40 of them...not including my own. I love mine and it's an improvement over the V1 which I also owned.

[@rip.tear.]

Ive always wondered this, interesting info!

[@grskier]

I ride a V1 and people had similar complaints about the 'harshness'. A few things that get glossed over for some (they mention it but barely).... It allows the bike to be a little bit more 'poppy'. It also allows one to pump more. On my V1 it comes alive at high speeds (relatively) for the terrain you are in... ie racing or bike park riding.

[@323johnnybravo]

Totally agree. Honestly I’m sticking with the V1 because it’s more firm than the new bike and a better climber. Also weighs less, push it hard and the plushness comes out.

[@riggermortisfpv526]

11k for a pedal bike is insane.

[@andrisvelmeris]

Fax

[@raupenimmersatt6906]

11k for any bike, be it pedal assisted or not is insane

[@denesk2794]

That's not the most expensive build BTW. The top build of that bike is $14K with Flight Attendant ... ps: funny to call it pedal bike when all bikes come without pedals these days ....

[@rideordie5377]

@@denesk2794 he meant "non assisted bike(electric bike)" by pedal bike.

[@whiskeyactual.]

8-12k tags is not that uncommon in the industry these days unfortunately.

[@jggutierrez9]

I was thinking about upgrading my 2019 Mega. I think I will just keep it for now.

[@harveycasey1900]

I upgraded mine a few weeks ago by adding a 170 fox factory 38 & a factory dhx2 fox coil & it's even better then before. I'll be upgrading the wheels to reserve 30s & new hubs as well in a few weeks. I'm still doing my homework on which hubs to get. I'm getting giddy as a little schoolgirl just thinking about it🤘🏿

[@richarddube2868]

Keep the 2019! I have the 2020 and 2023 both axs reserve wheels. I wouldn’t say it’s worth the upgrade. The storage in the frame is annoying and rattles lots.

[@pietrocampanocruz5071]

@@harveycasey1900 Get Chris kings, they are completely bombproof and don't have thaat much engagement poits so chain growth and pedal kickback won't be an issue as some people complain about the i9 hydras... If not, go for some dt swiss 240s, i've been on them for 3 years and only greased them up once per 6 months. Absolutely bombproof, I Ride in the andes and hit a lot of shit evryday i ride.

[@harveycasey1900]

@@pietrocampanocruz5071Chris kings hubs are on my radar thanks for your input. I'll start looking into them👍🏿

[@wx2999]

@@pietrocampanocruz5071 pedal kickback will still be an issue, only it will be less consistent with a lower - engagement hub.

[@kyungsupkim5822]

Harshness feeling is from running Carbon Reserve wheels - one of the most stiff wheels out there, make things harsh and chattery.

[@ABHORRANCE831]

I have DT Swiss EX511 wheels on mine with Super Deluxe, and no unpleasant harshness.

[@Windband1]

I was wondering about that too. Prob a big part of the problem...

[@mattydarbs8720]

This review seems to be in complete contradiction to all the others I’ve watched/read!

[@Windband1]

@@mattydarbs8720 Where?

[@dylanperschon8479]

You guys left out the R and the S kit builds, the R being around 5,000 and the S being right around 7,000

[@Matthew-Lewis]

Reverbs have been garbage since day 1. Santa Cruz needs to STOP outfitting their bikes with them.

[@Windband1]

+1.

[@Windband1]

Why in the world is Rockshox insisting on making that damn reverb seat post?!! People have been complaining about it for like 8 years. SMH.

[@stuartthomasson5027]

Super excited about this new Megatower; coming from the Hightower V2 I can’t wait to test ride one.. I don’t know why Santa Cruz specs the Rockshox reverb on their higher end bikes. I feels great when it works well but so often it goes soft and squishy. I have replaced the reverb on both my bikes and never looked back

[@jayd3931]

What did you replace them with?

[@stuartthomasson5027]

@@jayd3931 I have OneUp dropper posts on both my bikes now and they are great

[@mindy_cycling]

Mountain bike sounds fun.👍👍

[@harveycasey1900]

Mountain bikes are fun🤘🏿

[@dachuckster2]

Does it ever stop raining where you test bikes?

[@parkervance3574]

I feel like there should be a disclaimer at the beginning of this that the Pinkbike DH team is sponsored by Santa Cruz. Just saying

[@SlusserGuitars]

Honest question: Are these videos intended to have a really clinical, serious mood? I ask because if that’s the case, you’ve nailed it! Just seems like a bit of a departure from the PinkBike fun-loving culture it seems like you guys have cultivated over the years. Although the mood is very consistent with last year’s bike review videos…

[@Windband1]

That's what happens when introverts try and make videos! LOL.

[@dustinbjohnson]

AXS clutch is super weak. I went back to cable. Much less chain slap if any. Hope they fix it with the new AXS Spy photos.

[@ttengineer404]

the pricing structure on the Megatower is atrocious. $8,500 for a GX without factory suspension or carbon wheels is bonkers. WTF has happened to trickle down technology!

[@LCNismo]

Sounds like broke people problems.

[@LastAphelion]

and you don't even see rcs brakes until waaay up there lol

[@ianmackie3305]

Seems like a brokie to me

[@Windband1]

SC are just stupid expensive for no reason. Don't buy one.

[@ttengineer404]

@@LCNismo @ian Mackie a fool and his money are soon parted.

[@ErichVonCartmann]

I am loving my MegaV2 right now, to me she is a great all arounder 29er that I can use for anything. She replaced my Ripmo as the only 29er in my Stable. I still feel the Ripmo is better as an ALL DAY trail bike, but the Mega is a better all-around bike in General as she is much more DH capable than the Ripmo; and in addition the MegaV2 is more playful, and is a lot more poppy,. I do miss my Ripmo though, but no way I would take it over the MegatowerV2. Actually of all the 29er Trail and Enduro bikes out there, there is NONE I would take over the MegaV2. I actually am in agreement with the PinkBike reviewers for the most part in what they say, the MegaV2 is a "harsh" feeling bike. I think they just did NOT take the time to set up the suspension. I have had about 8 park days on my MegatowerV2 now, and think I have her dialed in to what I want her to do. I have found that Santa Cruz's recommended suspension settings are way too harsh for me. I am running 10 psi less air in both the Fox 38 fork and the X2 shock. As for the damping adjustments, I am also going softer on all those, running 2 clicks further out on each damping adjustment. I also agree with the Pinkbike Reviewers when they say it is great climber and a great all-arounder bike as I feel the exact same. I don't feel the MegaV2 is true plow bike though like some of the other Enduro bikes. These days we expect our Enduro Bikes to be DH bikes, but to me, no Enduro replicates what a DH bike can do no matter how much they try. Even though she is on the softer side, I still don't bottom out that much, and even if I do, the bottom outs are not that harsh. In addition, she is still very poppy and playful despite setting her soft. For the really Chunky Runs and Bike Park Days, I still prefer my "DH bike" (a 2020 Mullet Commencal Furious), over my MegaV2. The Furious feels much more comfortable and plusher. However, on DH courses, I might even be faster on the on the Mega than the Furious. The Furious is more of a plow bike, and with the Mega it feels like I am floating over stuff more instead of plowing through them. I can be more lazy with the Furious, and I stay fresher after a full day or bike parking. For those of you don't know, even though the Furious runs Dual Crown Forks, it is considered Commencal "Fun" and "Freeride" bike, and not a DH slayer like the Commencal Supreme. Not saying the Furious is NOT worthy of racing DH, but you will most likely be faster on a Supereme than a Furious. I plan to keep my MegaV2 until it dies, my next bike I have on my sights is Commencal V5. Probably be at least a couple of years before I add that one to my stable though.

[@AndrewBeveridge461]

Regarding 'suggested' suspension settings. I recently watched a review (can't recall which one) where the reviewers were all complaining about the suspension - but they only tried it on the manufacturer's suggested settings. WTF? Change some things! It was maddening to listen to.

[@ianmackie3305]

Will say I have the v2 specced with a super deluxe rear shock, not harsh at all, super plush off the top and poppy. You not have an issue with your reverb dropper like me?

[@ErichVonCartmann]

@@AndrewBeveridge461 , These Big Time Reviewers have deadlines to meet hence have no time to really learn a bike and take the time to set it up. I am with you though in that they should at least take the time to dial in the suspension to suite their riding style. For me personally, I have to ride a bike for at least a year, to really get the know the bike and see what it needs. I myself make many modification and adjustments in a that first year after getting the new bike; and sometimes, even 3 years down the line, I am still making upgrades. None of these Big Time Reviewers will take the time to learn a bike is because they don't need to. They just ride a group of new bikes for at most 5-6 months then they move on to the next group of new bikes. You will never see them do 3 year reviews because that is NOT their job, their job is to HYPE up the new bikes and help sell them. They will never tell you that it is always 95% rider and your MegatowerV1 is good enough. They won't say that because that will be "Biting the Hand that feeds them". Always remember that Pinkbike or any Big Biker Site's PRIMARY job is to be an ADVERTISEMENT AGENCY and help sell bikes.

[@AndrewBeveridge461]

@@ErichVonCartmann 5-6 months? Where I live that's a whole season. Gimme a new bike for a weekend and I'll likely run through a half dozen suspension settings. There's freakin' dials on the things for a reason, to adjust trailside!

[@ErichVonCartmann]

@@ianmackie3305 , I bought Frame only and it came with the X2, and the X2 was NOT that harsh either, the harshness I experienced came from the Fox 38. However, now I even made my MegaV2 more plush than before by dropping 10 lbs in the shock and back out all the damping even more. I too find the MegaV2 to be supper poppy for what it is. In all fairness to Pinkbike though, they did say it might be the carbon wheels that made it so harsh, or the Frame Sizing is what made it harsh. Santa Cruz says that the bigger the frame size, the more stiff it will be (which makes sense). Me being 165 lbs on a Medium, and taking the time to set up the bike, I don't feel any the harshness that the girl experienced. That girl probably only weighs like 115 pounds and she was riding a Large Bike, a bike where it's compliance was most likely made for a rider or 180 lbs. NO WONDER IT FELT HARSH to her! but then again, all bikes probably feel harsh to her, so she might be on to something.

[@raivkka4313]

As someone who rides motocross and Harleys (as well as pedals) I don't think anything about this bike. 11K for any bicycle is criminal. Minimal, simple engineering, very little physical material and no regulatory oversight, bikes are selling for 2 times or more what they should.

[@janeblogs324]

So you don't like capitalism?

[@th_js]

I agree

[@sr_34]

@Pinkbike, Last Enduro Field Trip Matt still would have chosen the Speci Enduro from 2020 so I'd love to hear his opinion if that would be his go to this year as well in the final round up.

[@Couffee]

I’ve been ripping my mega v2 for the past few years mainly at bike parks with a rock shop super deluxe rear air shock, is this bike better for steeps and gnar with a coil but still capable to jump?

[@adifreeride8919]

give a difference between the shock of water & coil ?

[@and2244rew]

Most MTBs are more capable than the average rider at this point. Would be interested to hear a few words about the maintainability and future proofing of the frames. These bikes cost a lot of money and I try to get many years out of mine as possible. I've had wildly different ownership experiences depending on: frame quality, frame features (Santa Cruz's internal routing was amazing, not sure if the whole industry has moved to guided cables now), choice of standards (you don't want the "new" standard that no other company picks up and the components manufactures don't support), also customer support can make a difference.

[@carrotman2871]

I think Shimano clutches are just stiffer/stronger than SRAM clutches, I have a sram GX and and an SLX and the Shimano a clutch is so much better. Don’t know if it was just that specific mech?

[@laurynasjagelo5075]

nah, shimano clutches are just better. Adjustable And serviceable.

[@carrotman2871]

@@laurynasjagelo5075 nice to know, I do like the ability to lock the mech in the fully extended position on the SRAM mech though.

[@laurynasjagelo5075]

@@carrotman2871 I mean it's nice, but not as essential as some make it to be. Imo anyway. I'll take the better clutch anyday

[@DM-hw4cr]

Not to mention the gear ratio on Shimano seems designed for mountain biking.

[@carrotman2871]

@@laurynasjagelo5075 agreed

[@basicwrc]

Mike is so missed already, his opinions were priceless

[@craigsteele8178]

So I have the lowest model Megatower R, and I have put some DT Swiss mx421 wheels on it with a GX drive chain. This bike rips as a little DH rig. It’s very poppy and fun to jump . It is a firmer ride through the suspension set up but I like that. I think you guys are are experiencing harshness on the ride because you have carbon rims. That setup is way too hard of a ride. Aluminum rims is the way to go on a shred machine like this. You all should be testing a more affordable bike model like mine as most people don’t like spending eleven grand on a bike?…Just a thought!

[@vlbz]

Rockshox should really move to a 'conventional' dropper post. They tried fixing the reverb a million times, and it's still crp. No shame in trying something and realizing it was a bad idea.

[@henry06x]

Tried a reverb around 2017ish. Thing acted up as the weather changed through the day of if the bike sat it the sun and heated up. Never again.

[@micheandmikey]

Rock Shox seriously just need to remove the Reverb seat off their line up, period.....kind of like what Specialized needs to do with theirs. There is no reason for a shitty dropper in 2022.

[@Windband1]

I posted the same thing LOL. I mean people have been hating that for like 8 years now. WTF is wrong with Rockshox? They just can't admit they were wrong and a hydraulic post is stupid, especially one that doesn't work!!

[@HeidiFegles]

Man for 11 grand the extra money for a gasket for the storage box would have been nice. I’m still mixed on the glove box. I think I like the model before without the box and just wear a Fanny pack, I just see this as a trend that will go away the glove box idea anyways. But the head rub tools that specialized has is bang on.

[@rideordie5377]

SC is well well overpriced.

[@mrvwbug4423]

Top of the line bike, but they couldn't spec an AXS dropper, seriously?

[@mcspikesky]

Only 11k usd.. shrug

[@drejec1]

Chain slap almost disappears if Shimano derailleur with a nicely tensioned clutch is used.

[@dustinbjohnson]

$11,000 and they can’t even toss on true X01 cranks? And they can’t even give you hydra hubs? Santa Cruz is dropping the ball.

[@vlbz]

How is the fox performance elite model casting 8.5k? That is a nice build, with the GX and alu wheels, all good. But, it should cost 5-6k max. Even that wouldn't be exaclty a bargain.

[@nicholkid]

Really curious to know who actually buys this type of bike. Who can actually stomach that price tag? Even if I was a dentist or something it just seems absurd. I see I'm not alone in this...

[@harveycasey1900]

11 grand. Hell to the NOPE.

[@steve_troy]

SC have finally taken the crown from Yeti as the dentist's choice. The prices are absolutely insane considering they're a mass-manufactured brand. The only reason to choose this over a an Enduro is dick swinging.

[@th_js]

Rich people, who don't give a fuck, or people brainwashed by marketing.

[@cudifrak]

So 34 lbs is lightweight and 36 lbs is heavy? lol

[@danytheunicorn95]

Is it me or santa cruz has become an elitist brand?

[@bigwave7207]

It seems like it. They have jacked their prices and aren’t making aluminum frames in newer models. I bought two aluminum SCs in the last two years; they were a decent value before the price increase. These days the SCs are overpriced for the components and the carbon only options make the pricing way out of reach for more and more people.

[@lagwall]

You pay extra but the warranty in unmatched. The Megatowers is designed for max speed. The Bronson MX is amazing all around bike. But if you ask ppl about warranty and frames breaking 3 years down the road and being replaced with a new frame... you will understand why Santa Cruz is 1337.

[@DM-hw4cr]

@@lagwall transition has lifetime warranty. If your referring to the free bearings... so what.

[@TheHeldgaard]

@@lagwall nah, they are really slow I have waited over 1,5 years for a new megatower frame

[@whitest_kyle]

Mountain biking in general is a really privileged sport

[@Jan07362]

The trade off of a active snappy bike is that is not the fastest sure is a blast to ride if you like a lively rig

[@samtansleyphotography]

ride a the new megatower in moraine a couple months ago, my only complaints are the seat tube is long af and bothered me a lot (i am 6ft1 and the bike shop only had xl sizes so that may be on me) and that i ran out of skill!

[@rickybarker4023]

How tall are the test riders, heard bike was a large.

[@5DEV]

We have been running one and we love it!

[@empty0701]

Yup, the glove box leaks.

[@zees4587]

Isn't reviewing a 12 000 dollar bike a bit excessive. Bike companies don't seem to be getting much incentive to make high quality cheaper bikes.

[@dschingy]

I' d really have loved to see the Ghost Riot EN here after the glorious flop from last year on their Trai version. It's a completely different bike even though the name suggests differently.

[@edtsech]

To Matt, what is your favourite reach on an enduro bike?

[@DM-hw4cr]

What a rip off. From NX to XO1.

[@zwingler]

eleven thousand one hundred and ninety nine. Let that sink in.

[@maxlonghi4461]

basically what i got from this is that it’s a good bike ha

[@EstebanRapido]

15:48 who best suits this bike? dentists

[@letsgoletsgoletsgoletsgoletsgo]

i've always assumed that the DH bikes would be the longest slackest and lowest bikes in a given range of bikes .... apparently not ...why is that?

[@TheyForcedMyHandLE]

$$$. Looks like the 'S' build is the lowest cost worthwhile choice. It's $6799USD! The cheapest 'R' build is still $5649USD, but comes with NX drivetrain, which is a nonstarter at that price point. I don't really see any attractive Megatower models at the current pricing. EDIT: I just looked up the bike I bought last year and see that prices have skyrocketed across the board over the last year :(

[@ridemx323]

Be prepared to send your X2 or DHX2 in for warranty.

[@bazbroon]

Anyone else think Matt Beer looks like Michael Schumacher?

[@bandguy360]

Wow everything about this thing is mega haha even the pricetag

[@jonathanhowson6420]

Not putting a Kashima dropped on a bike at this price point is a massive mistake. Also not having electronic gear and dropper option with the reserve wheels is also disappointing, however, buying a frame and building it up to your own spec is often a cheaper option, especially if you have a few compatible parts already.

[@th_js]

If you already have parts, you have paid for them at some point, so technically not cheaper.

[@jonathanhowson6420]

@@th_js take a fork for example. A new fox 38 is probably about £1200, where as if you already have something similar, that fork may only be worth £6-700 if you sold it second hand, therefore cheaper to use what you have if it’s reasonable then buying all new.

[@MP-MTB]

I enjoy watching them make excuses for a $12k bike's shortcomings.

[@th_js]

Absolutely stupid

[@MightyFireL]

At this price, they could have specced an AXS dropper... Or maybe it's kind of a "supply issue"?

[@paradox963]

Mega's are much better with a coil on them, and I am bummed that for the price it doesn't come with the AXS dropper. As for the squish, it kept happening because she said they were doing something you should never do with any dropper, don't pick the bike up by the seat with the dropper down, you will suck air into the wrong side, I work in a shop and I have seen this with almost every brand of dropper. So that one goes to user error.

[@sonnyfung5135]

Well the H\head tube angle of V10 is 63.3° in Low setting. Please don't fool us.

[@wichovr6]

$11k their should be no complaints

[@Windband1]

Exactly. None of the reviewers seemed particularly stoked about this bike. For $11000, it should be literally perfect and the best thing I've ever ridden...

[@shaunoleary8740]

Looks super cool but the reviews make me think I should stay with my Bronson.

[@ka81alex]

Hydraulic (lever-hose-dropper) dropper on 11k bike?..

[@ttt3377]

I would buy a suron with pedals

[@russellparker4568]

Santa cruz factory suspension tune is useless at best. They dont adjust the tune to suite the range of sizes for lighter/heavier riders so expect to send the shock in if your at either end of the spectrum.

[@blairruddlesden3325]

Only my gynecologist could afford this ‘mega pricey’ khunt! The 1% out there will love love love this review… Come on pinkbike.

[@WesMacaulay]

$11k USD huh. Even the testers seem unenthused 🤨

[@johncast9565]

That computer screen is almost as wide as Levy, making me feel uncomfortable.

[@rideordie5377]

where is mike kizmer

[@xav_1029]

I had chain slap issue as well on XX1 AXS. Problem ended up being the chain was too short of all things. Still looser than I’d like, so I agree.

[@307.William]

I feel like the reverb issues in the video is related to a setup issue. I’ve worked on a number of them and particularly in Santa Cruz they sometimes they don’t use the conectamajig. So you really have to tighten the hose fitting down super tight. Problem solved.

[@epicTPR11]

Connectamajigs haven't been specced on reverbs in years, these newer C1 posts use a more conventional hose barb and nut. In many cases it's the opposite now, and the hose barb will come overtightened from the factory which causes fluid to leak at the connection (or not flow properly). Either way they describe the post sagging, which indicates an issue with the post itself not the hose connection/bleed

[@Windband1]

No, it's just a piece of shit, and has been for 8 years. No idea why RS INSISTS on continuing production of that thing.

[@MagnumoftheMountains]

Wow, for an 11K bike, this review feels really low energy and "meh," like our hosts are struggling to say "This bike is worth 11k because it's the greatest bike we've ever been on." Makes me really happy to get a 6K bike instead, haha.

[@fbi-fipo1618]

Mega > Megatower for way cheaper too

[@antonywilliams5703]

Funny how this can be watched here without issue and yet PB are claiming problems with KZbin around Friday Fails.

[@kroozctrl6284]

Mentions the Intense Tracer 279 > looks on page > zero review (at time of upload) on the Tracer

[@quantumcreator8888]

Get zip lock bag 💼 it works too

[@ianmackie3305]

Reverb dropper is trash, can confirm, scored and squishy within 2 rides, warranteed, replaced but need to wait till October for replacement... total shite. Sweet bike though

[@LCNismo]

I dont understand why people hate the reverb... I have never have had problems when the 2 i have.. Even my ex wifes bike works perfect and she doesnt even use it that much.. the bike sits more than used.

[@SalvationsHERE]

Santa cruz overpricing their bikes as always. Who would pay $8500 for the base model? So many other bikes that give you so much more for a lot less. Sorry but SC are so overpriced for no reason.

[@th_js]

There is a reason - brand. Not a reasonable reason, though.

[@prestond]

Actually, the base model R build is $5600. I'm not sure why they didn't mention that here. Perhaps at the time of filming the lower end models hadn't been released yet.

[@23Trollface]

I think I’ll just buy a damn motorcycle 😅😂

[@willlange9978]

This is the bike I was 100% jonesing for and saving up the last few $ to buy… for some reason I didn’t and bought a gearbox drive Katipo instead. As must have as I like this bike, I just can’t imagine hanging a derailleur off my bike. Ugh…

[@lachlanmorrison19]

Seems sorta like the story from the yt capra.

[@sylasstorer]

Too expensive!!