Product news: The Santa Cruz Hightower stands for easy rocking off trails and fast times. From the end of July, a new version of the trail low-flyer will be rolling into the shops. With a more modern geometry and refined rear end characteristics, the new model should offer an improved driving experience uphill and downhill, according to the manufacturer.
Equipped with 145 millimeters of VPP spring travel, 29 inch wheels and an optimized geometry, the Santa Cruz Hightower is entering a new round. Among other things, the reach has been extended, the steering angle reduced and the bottom bracket lowered in order to achieve improved stability at high speeds. The stack has also been increased in favor of modern handlebar geometries. To improve ride quality across all sizes, the seat tube angle and chainstay length change depending on the frame size.
The characteristics of the rear end have also been refined. A linear characteristic with more end progression should ensure ideal support in the middle spring travel range. According to Santa Cruz, a reduced anti-squat value also improves the response behavior, which should result in an improved driving experience uphill and downhill. A new feature is the SAG window, which makes it easier to read the sag on the damper.
The developers also saw potential for improvement when laying the cables. The now improved cable routing should ensure better shifting performance and less friction. A useful gimmick is the glove box in the down tube, which comes with two practical bags "Tool Wallet" and "Tube Purse". The frame also offers space for a bottle holder, which ensures that you have enough liquid even on tours.
Santa Cruz grants a lifetime guarantee on the frame and the rear triangle bearings. The new Hightower will be available in Europe from the end of July.
Santa Cruz Hightower: versions and prices
- Hightower CR – €5.499
- Hightower CS – €6.599
- Hightower C GX AXS – 7.999 €
- Hightower C GX AXS RSV – €9.199
- Hightower CC XO AXS – 8.999 €
- Hightower CC XO AXS RSV – 10.999 €
- Hightower CC frame kit – €3.799
Website: www.santacruzbicycles.com