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The Hightower is Santa Cruz's long travel 29er trail bike. With 145mm of rear travel and a 29 inch front wheel, it sits between the Tallboy (shorter travel) and the Bronson (more aggressive) in the Santa Cruz range. The Hightower is aimed at riders who want the rolling efficiency and stability of 29 inch wheels with enough travel for aggressive trail riding.
Like all Santa Cruz bikes, the Hightower uses VPP suspension and is built to a very high standard. The frame quality is excellent and the bike is designed to last. With 2 used listings tracked at an average price around £4,800, the Hightower is rare on the used market. Owners tend to keep them, which says a lot about how the bike rides.
The Hightower has found a strong following among UK riders who want a modern 29er that handles everything from cross country loops to rough trail centre descents.
The Hightower rolls beautifully. The 29 inch wheels carry momentum over rough ground and the 145mm travel keeps things composed on technical terrain. It climbs well for a long travel bike, partly because of the big wheels and partly because VPP delivers an efficient pedalling feel.
Descending is where the Hightower shines compared to shorter travel 29ers. The 145mm travel soaks up roots and rocks that would unsettle a 120mm bike, and the stability at speed is confidence inspiring. The handling is predictable and planted. On UK trails, the Hightower covers everything from smooth singletrack to technical descents with ease.
Trail riders who want the best of both worlds: big wheel efficiency and long travel capability. Riders who do long, varied loops mixing climbing with technical descents. Mountain bikers who prefer 29 inch wheels but want more travel than a typical 29er XC bike. UK riders who ride varied terrain and want one bike that does it all.
The V2 Hightower (2020 onwards) is significantly better than the V1 with improved geometry and suspension. The V3 (2023) brought further refinements. For the best value, a V2 in alloy or carbon is an excellent bike. V1 models are getting dated and the geometry does not match current standards.
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