Great review! I demo’d a Hightower after watching your review and liked it so much that I ended up buying that demo bike. Spot on about the grips and saddle though. Those are both getting swapped out ASAP.
The average joe how are you enjoying the bike? And would you recommend it to some one who does a lot of trail riding and a decent amount of downhill biking?
@@gavincharboneau5445 I am really enjoying the bike. It is the first bike I have ever owned that I never had to worry about the bike breaking when I send it off big drops. My bike (GX Build+Coil) weighs 36.5lbs. but I still beat my friends up the hill. The traction is uncanny on steep climbs. I recently switched the flip chip to the high setting, which lessens the amount of pedal strikes, but I lose a bit of that insane traction. I am thinking about switching it back.
Hi, great review. I just thought I’d say I watched this video a while back and it was one that helped me make the decision to get a Hightower. All I can say is WOW. I chose this over a megatower and couldn’t be any happier, I ride a lot of trails in the Lake District in the UK and it feels rite at home.
I think it's been the best lower link climbing bike because it's the lightest with the steepest HTA. The rear link/shock tune may be slightly different than the other lower link bikes but I think it's mostly a geometry difference. I could be wrong. 🤷♂️ I'm stoked though, my Bronson just arrived! 🤘
We have a closeout company and we just inquire Demo 2020 Santa Cruz Hightower CC X01. Road the bike and was amaze how the bike were so comfortable and doing so many small thing even up hill.
I've really been on the fence about this bike, going back and forth between this bike and the nukeproof mega. I think your review tipped the scales to this one.
Excellent review, very informative. I had my eye on a custom Ripmo build but ended up ordering an XXL HT2. The lifetime warranty on the frame, bearings and carbon wheelset as well as the XXL sizing were the deciding factors. I hope you do decide on a supplemental review and take the bike over some even more difficult terrain. It really does look like a fun bike for the bulk of most trail riding scenarios; IMO you captured that perfectly.
Thanks for watching and enjoy the ride! I would be surprised if this bike doesn’t make it into my home fulltime so there is likely to be more of it on the channel.
Same here, I’m 6’4” and trying to decide between XL and XXL. I’m right on the edge between the two. If you’re 6’-3” then you’re definitely an XL unless if you prefer crazy long bikes. I would go with the XXL but the wheelbase looks insanely long. Guess you have to demo it and see
Great Review. What is up with SC and Rock Shox? They seem to be in bed with each other. I think the new HT would be truly a great one bike, but SC is turning me off with their build kits. Even the HT frame only option does not have a Fox X2 option, actually come to think of it, SC never had an X2 option for any of their bikes ever. In 2020, it's seems even the forks now are all RS. I am just not a big fan of RS shocks or forks. I have tried that Rock Shox Super Deluxe on the lower link Bronson, Nomad, and Megatower, and found it to be too difficult to tune; and could never get it to my liking. I either had to set it up plush where it felt great through the chunk, but here bottomed easy and climbed horribly or set it harder so it could climb better but I got bounced around more in the chunk. I am sure that new HT would be great with the X2! The X2 did wonders for both my old N3 and my current BronsonV3. I would loved have tried a X2 on my Rentals for the Mega and Nomad4. The Ripmo is the better option than the new HT for this reason. The Ripmo comes with the X2 and is the same price the HT is with Super Deluxe. It would be nice if these frames had a no shock option, because it sucks having to pay another $600 on a shock for a brand new frame just to get the shock we want.
Can’t really disagree with you, the X2 is a great shock and I had the same experience with the other lower link bikes. For whatever reason, whether it was a change in the linkage or a reworked shock tune in the super deluxe + I did not experience the same issues with the HT.
@@IslandBikeLife , The linkage placement for the HT did change, but a shock should be able to tune for any particular linkage to get at least halfway of what we want. The issue is with the Rockshox Super Deluxe Shock. It's a small volume can without much adjustments and the valving is done all wrong. The linkage for the Mega is much more progressive than the Bronson3, but that Super Deluxe also sucked on the Mega and produced the same results I found on the BronsonV3. One thing I noticed on the Hightower though is it has a DIFFERENT REAR SHOCK than the Mega, Bronson, and Nomad! The Mega comes with he RS Super Deluxe ULTIMATE shock, and most likely that is why you find the bike suspension flow and "aura" to be much more to your liking. This is why once again, we can't take any Bike Review too seriously, and it is up to the Rider to tune and upgrade his bike as needed. Every Rider is different, every trail is different, and every shock is different, just too many variables. One motto that Erich von Cartmann lives by is: "We can adjust to any bike, and get any bike to ride the way we want if we are patient enough to take the time to learn the bike, the parts, the trails, and ourselves"
Solid review as usual. I agree, at that price point it should come with good grips. I also think they should make their build kits around suspension. They should all come with a Super deluxe ultimate and then you would upgrade drive train, brakes, wheels... through the build kits. That blue 👌, I think the bike looks absolutely awesome. I like that rear mud guard, it shows that they care about details. I would like to demo that bike . 👊🏻
hey buddy - nice review, like your honest opinion on bikes - quick question, how would you say the HT climbs compared to your sb150 or a sb130 you've demoed?
Your reviews are excellent! Good combination of tech and riding impressions. Thinking seriously about either the HT2 or the Tallboy 4. Do you think you'll have a review of that pretty soon?
The Tallboy 4 is on the list. I just got word from my local dealer it is ready to roll for next week so it will be coming for sure! Thanks for watching
The Tallboy 4 is on the list. I just got word from my local dealer it is ready to roll for next week so it will be coming for sure! Thanks for watching!
I am 6' 1" with a 33 inseam. I would think that I would need an XL but I looked at the charts and they recommend the Large. Aren't you about the same measurements and didn't you say that you think the XL would be better? Have you had a chance to ride an XL now? If so, would you go with the XL?
I haven’t ridden and XL but I would absolutely go with that sizing. The Large fit bit I would be more comfortable with a little more reach and overall larger sizing given my measurements which are the same as yours.
Just received mine, same build plus carbon wheels and bars, after waiting 2 months and my impression of the bike matches your review exactly. The 2020 Hightower is a real game changer.
Nice review. I am toying with getting a new ride for my 50th next year. I currently ride a Gen 1 5010, and am looking at the new High Tower and new 5010. Leaning toward the High Tower. You and I are about the same height and build so I have to ask you why the XL over the L? I would love to be able to test ride stuff but not sure if that will ever happen with COVID.
Thanks for watching, if you check the channel you will see my updated Hightower video. The XL just feels better overall, I lowered the stem down from 50 to 35 and the rest the same. It fits like a glove!
great review - really interested in your thoughts on how this compares to the RM instinct BC as Vancouver Island/Squamish type quiver of 1 bike? thanks!
Hey thanks for the video, so you got the HT to replace your sb150. So did SB150 just not work as a trail bike at all or was it just that prospect of not racing? For a bigger stronger rider...
Hey, thanks for good review, much appreciated. Maybe u can say a thing about what size to pick up when one is on the edge of two sizes, im just right in between xl and xxl, the bike will be a allaround workhorse, from bombing hills to cross country long trips, any sugestions appreciated !!! :)
I factory demoed one and liked it. Been excited and waiting for this bike to come out. One thing I did not like was how active the steering felt. It felt over active and a little squirely to me. I guess I prefer a more predictable handling bike. The Megatower was definitely predictable to me. Did you notice that? The guy at Santa Cruz bikes knew what I meant and said he cured his bike by switching to a 40mm stem.
11:29 You say "nice steep headtube angle at 65.2 degrees." Do you mean steep or slack? Great reviews though. I'm torn between the Hightower and Tallboy. The bike shop suggests the Hightower due to the downhill rock gardens so prevalent here.
Haha, slack - nice catch! Your shops advice does seem correct as the HT does deal with the more chunky downhill stuff better. You don't loose much going up to that bike in terms of climbing but do gain so much more on the way down.
Bought one at the end of August and I'm loving it. It took me awhile to get used to it on some tight, twisty trails around home but I'm getting the hang of it now. It just needed to be handled more aggressively than my 2010 Specialized Epic 26er. (which is still a great bike, by the way)
Hey, nice videos. I ride a 2018 trek slash. The seat tube is slakcker but apart from that the geo very similar to the new HT. Do you think I’d notice much of a difference between these bikes? Slash is 150/160 tho. I want more of a do it all trail bike that I can take to the park.
The HT is hands down a better all around bike than your slash. For me it would be right at the edge for any aggressive park riding but it could be done.
Island Bike Life went for a SB130 in the end. It climbs insanely like cheating. Very stiff. I road a Hightower around a parking lot and liked it but felt it wasn’t as good for pedaly long days as the SB130.
I still haven't decided on which to get, Bronson or Hightower, but whichever bike is next it will have a quite hub. I cannot stand that fishing rod sound on a bike. I like to ride trails which is to say I like to enjoy the ride but the sights and sounds of nature. The noise coming from the hub is like nails on a chalk board to me. I wish this bike came in a 27.5 plus size and I wish there were more color options. Santa Cruz doesn't seem to have much imagination in the color department. That is also an issue, everyone that buys one is more like to have the same colored bike. They could at least give different colored decals than the the ones they have available. What makes the decisionon selecting my next bike so difficult is some say the High Tower is a better climber and better on the trails and other say the Bronson is. At least with the Bronson it has more tire options ( width) than the High Tower. You can turn plus tires or normal 27.5 tires. I guess I just have to do more research. I don't have a shop that has demos. So I want to make sure I pick the right bike this time and not make another mistake like I did with the Scott Spark 960. This experience has made me not like 29ers. The bike is not very fun to ride at all and is very sluggish in tight turns. Their warranty sucks, only 5 years. Their hub isn't like most other bikes which make finding the right hub tricky. Thanks for the video and sharing your thoughts on this bike.
you can put 27.5+ tires on the HT2 - SC says "The Hightower is compatible with 27.5x 2.8" tires in addition to our typical 29x2.4 spec. If you go this route, you'll most likely want the Hi BB setting and a 160mm fork, to keep the BB height in the right range."
solid review. Just watched this and your bronson review - do you feel like the suspension performed that much different on the HT? I am tempted by the 27.5 but it seems like people are more impressed by the 2020 HT
Fair enough that’s good to know. I’m very tempted by the Bronson because I would prefer 27.5, though you and others seem more pleased with the HT despite the bikes being almost identical on paper (other than wheel size). It seems weird that the suspensions would feel that much different
Awesome review. How would you compare this to the Forbidden Druid? Both are very capable I'm sure, But which one was more playful and If you could only have one bike which would be your choice?
@@IslandBikeLife Any plans to review the Esker Rowl? I'm really torn between Esker Rowl, Hightower and Forbidden Druid. For riding up tech singletrack and down steep and rowdy descents in Nelson, BC, which do you think you would pick?
1. Great reviews. Really enjoying your channel 2. Can you tell me some of the trails your riding here? I've ridden Benson mtn trails and love them but jone of these.
Your price comparison towards the end was really off, A rocky mountain Instinct C50 is only 5500$. The C70 is only 6800, no clue where you are getting 7200 from.
Thanks for the support. The sentinel is more of a bruiser. It was one of the first Bikes with the newer geo on the market. It is not as refined as some of the newest ones like the Hightower.
@@IslandBikeLife Sorry I should of worded that better. Is it capable for the climbs in the BCBR or would you want something with a little less travel? Ya the new Tallboy will be good! Thanks!
That’s a tricky one. Both are damn amazing and truly do it all bikes. In all ways they are very similar. The Yeti pedals a bit nicer and is a bit more firm when trail riding. Comes down more to what the brand offers than the riding they are so close.
@@IslandBikeLife Thank you! I was going to ask the same. I recently got to ride an SB130 for a couple days and I couldn't believe the stuff I was able to climb on that bike. So I've been really curious about how this new Hightower would compare given the similar seat angles. And descending on that SB130 down some pretty good rock gardens felt more like a 150mm travel full suspension to me -- super plush! The only thing I never did were any big sized drops, something I want to do in the future. Wondering how big of a difference the 130mm shock is (combined with switch infinity) vs the new Hightower's 140mm... Any insights there? Your videos are great and very helpful so thank you for that!
I would say they are pretty similar over all. The SI link really gives the feeling of a deeper suspension that you actually have. Both track pretty well but overall the SI is a bit stiffer of a platform.
Great videos. You’re now my go to for reviews. Nice work! Similar question. I rode an XL SB130 last week and LOVED it. I can’t help but think though that at 6’5 I might fit better on an XXL Hightower with the longer reach and chain stay. Thoughts having ridden both which one would be the best fit as they seem to have pretty similar trail manners from you’re prior response. I really valued how well the SB130 climbed and kept its speed on rolling terrain.
William Timbers thanks for the support! I would think at your height the XXL HT would be the better choice for sure. Both that and the XL SB130 are pretty close and if you liked that fit I would go that way for sure.
I'm right between a Lg and Xl, why were you so convinced a Xl was going to be better? I have demo'd a Xl nomad and thought it was too long for me. Good climber, but too long for jumping.
The overall reach numbers better fit my body. The shorter bike felt a bit too tight climbing and a bit twitchy in descending. Going on the XL would have smoothed all that out.
@@IslandBikeLife That seems to fly in the face of your Ripmo review doesn't it? I just looked at it again and you seemed very enthusiastic about it... From the reviews I've looked at, it's a fairly consistent opinion that the Ripmo and SB130 out-climb the HT while going the other way, it's the HT that shines. So do I believe this comment or your review?
Both are good comparisons. I liked the Offering a lot, best Evil bike I have been on for sure. This new HT is a bit more refined. It climbs a touch better I would say. Both are very fun trail bikes and if you had the Offering set up with a 150 fork it would descend pretty on par. Same with the SB130, I think the Yeti climbs better but they are pretty equal otherwise. All three are very close and part of the decision will be brand preference and suspension platform that you like.
I would say either the HT or SB130. Very close overall. The HT is a bit longer size for size I think so a bit more stable at speed but sacrificing some agility, so depends what you value more.
The HT LT doesn’t climb as well I found. It is okay but the others are more well rounded. The LT was a stop gap bike which is why it doesn’t exist anymore.
@@IslandBikeLife ok i think id go with Tallboy..climbing is more important to me than downhill..unless sb100 is better..im looking for a all rounder so i dont have to buy two bikes
The Druid is an interesting bike that pedals amazing. It is a fun bike that descends very well. It has a bit more noise in the drive train and though I am sure the company/warranty are excellent is still new and untested on longer term durability.
Excellent review of the HT2, thank you! I have been on the HT1 for past 3.5 years, now with 150 fork, bigger reservoir shock and has been great for me here in the PacNW as well. I did demo the HT2 last month and was quite pleased with the descending capabilities on my usual AM trails and climbed as well as my HT1 even though new HT2 was about 2 lbs heavier. Could feel it when picking up the bikes, but never really noticed on climbs and the bit extra weight added to the planted, stable, but somehow still playful feel of bike, even though plusher in the rough and much longer. I plan to order one soon! Thanks again for great video and review
@@IslandBikeLife I own a Rocky Instinct BC Edition and would like to go with Santa Cruz. I hesitate between the Megatower and the new Hightower. I know that the Hightower would be more appropriate for my ride, but since I am quite heavy and I liked my BC Edition, I'm afraid of downgrade ...I like rigid bikes for the times I ride more aggressive.Not easy to make a decision ... lol
Unless you are taking on huge park days or riding extremely rough terrain then the Megatower will be overkill. You still might like it more but the Hightower will take on just about anything.
@@IslandBikeLife I measure 5p10. According to Santa Cruz, I should go in the large but I'm not sure ... I roll medium on my BC Edition but it's a little small. It is better control but downhill it's a bit less stable ...
How does the hightower compare to the bronson for do it all bike in your experience? Struggling with the choice, not sure about 29'' wheels and the slight increase in weight i have never rode a 29er. What do you think the pros n cons of each are when compared? Thanks for any input you have.
They are pretty different. The Bronson to me is a more rowdy type of trail bike. For me I found it to not pedal as nice and didn’t have the same stable feeling as it lends itself to getting airborne more often. It really comes down to what you prefer in a bike.
Ok that helps. I think i would enjoy the bronsons playfulness a bit more. Thanks alot gonna pick up a leftover carbon primer grey bronson. The 19s are 10% off too which swayed me over a 2020 plus i really dig the color.
I have a 2019 Bronson- C R + (+ being 2.6). Lots of vids of it on my channel- from my demo and post purchase. I prefer 27.5 and the Bronson is the best 27.5 do it all bike I’ve ever ridden. It skews more towards bigger- bigger hits, faster downs, bigger jumps and drops, but it can seriously do it all. The R builds’ shock does not have a lock out and even without it I averaged 15 mph on a slightly inclined paved trail over 5 miles. I have never wished for the lockout and just the opposite I love not having to think about one more thing. I did that ride with the same setup I used at a lift assist bike park the weekend before. The only thing is not great at is bigger logs and pedaling through flat rock gardens- bc it is quite low slung especially in the low setting- not pedal striky low but bb not super high- especially if sus is set softer. Interesting thing about the bike tho is that a few psi of air in the sus and she becomes a different bike. If I were gonna be pedaling all day- which to me sounds like purgatory (not quite hell but def not heaven) and if it were gonna include a bunch of flat pedally rock gardens I’d just firm it up a bit before I heading out. Since I don’t do much of that and am more downhill and pop and play oriented I just leave it a bit squishier and suck up the logs and flat rock Gardens so I can bomb and boost everything. Good hunting and you will love the Bronster.
Great info i appreciate it. I def want a do it all bike and I like that it will be super capable. I like doing mello trail riding one minute then be able to jump and pop off everything and rail berms the next. Also we have a bike park that is apart of our trail network that I want to start going to so thats why i think the bronsons a good fit. I think the hightower would be too but it seems the fun factor may be higher with the bronson and it weighs alittle less is a little more agile, snappy and poppy and i can get it at a discount in a rad color so thats what sold me. I would love to demo a 29er like the HT though just to try, maybe next yr. When you adjust your shocks do you follow what santa cruz suggests or do you do it on your own? My LBS said they would adjust it for me according to my weight when i pick it up.
Nice! I messaged you on Instagram about the Hightower on Saturday. I went and bought one (this same build) that same day. Great review and can’t wait to get my bike! Great work!
![[MUST SEE] Here's the Strongest and Largest Helicopter Ever Built](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/L-KfDVTsn_E/mqdefault.jpg)
*My 65 yr old dad bought this and he assembled it by himself. He absolutely loves **Latest.Bike** . He did however order a bigger seat.*
Just stumbled across the channel and I could argue he is putting out some of the best reviews on youtube.
Right on thanks for the support!
Great review! I demo’d a Hightower after watching your review and liked it so much that I ended up buying that demo bike. Spot on about the grips and saddle though. Those are both getting swapped out ASAP.
Glad it was helpful!
Great review. I think this will be my next bike, next month! Thank you for the easy to understand impressions.
Cheers, thanks for watching!
The average joe how are you enjoying the bike? And would you recommend it to some one who does a lot of trail riding and a decent amount of downhill biking?
@@gavincharboneau5445 I am really enjoying the bike. It is the first bike I have ever owned that I never had to worry about the bike breaking when I send it off big drops. My bike (GX Build+Coil) weighs 36.5lbs. but I still beat my friends up the hill. The traction is uncanny on steep climbs. I recently switched the flip chip to the high setting, which lessens the amount of pedal strikes, but I lose a bit of that insane traction. I am thinking about switching it back.
Hi, great review. I just thought I’d say I watched this video a while back and it was one that helped me make the decision to get a Hightower. All I can say is WOW. I chose this over a megatower and couldn’t be any happier, I ride a lot of trails in the Lake District in the UK and it feels rite at home.
Nice! Thanks for watching and glad it helped. Enjoy your new ride!
This is a detailed and thorough review. Great content! Really enjoyed watching.
Thanks for watching!
I think it's been the best lower link climbing bike because it's the lightest with the steepest HTA. The rear link/shock tune may be slightly different than the other lower link bikes but I think it's mostly a geometry difference. I could be wrong. 🤷♂️ I'm stoked though, my Bronson just arrived! 🤘
We have a closeout company and we just inquire Demo 2020 Santa Cruz Hightower CC X01. Road the bike and was amaze how the bike were so comfortable and doing so many small thing even up hill.
Excellent review thank you for that. Pls review Trek Full Stach 29+ & comparison to SB150 or real enduro bike. Tanks
I've really been on the fence about this bike, going back and forth between this bike and the nukeproof mega. I think your review tipped the scales to this one.
That’s great, happy it helped you. Thanks for watching.
Go for the nukeproof
Great review, well done.
Waiting for the tallboy. That's the best bike for my local trails
Yeah, August 20th will be here soon. The new purple Tallboy looks pretty nice I have to say.
Excellent review, very informative. I had my eye on a custom Ripmo build but ended up ordering an XXL HT2. The lifetime warranty on the frame, bearings and carbon wheelset as well as the XXL sizing were the deciding factors. I hope you do decide on a supplemental review and take the bike over some even more difficult terrain. It really does look like a fun bike for the bulk of most trail riding scenarios; IMO you captured that perfectly.
Thanks for watching and enjoy the ride! I would be surprised if this bike doesn’t make it into my home fulltime so there is likely to be more of it on the channel.
How tall are you and how does the XXL fit? I'm 6'3 and debating if I want to go with a XL or XXL.
Same here, I’m 6’4” and trying to decide between XL and XXL. I’m right on the edge between the two. If you’re 6’-3” then you’re definitely an XL unless if you prefer crazy long bikes. I would go with the XXL but the wheelbase looks insanely long. Guess you have to demo it and see
Great Review. What is up with SC and Rock Shox? They seem to be in bed with each other. I think the new HT would be truly a great one bike, but SC is turning me off with their build kits.
Even the HT frame only option does not have a Fox X2 option, actually come to think of it, SC never had an X2 option for any of their bikes ever. In 2020, it's seems even the forks now are all RS. I am just not a big fan of RS shocks or forks.
I have tried that Rock Shox Super Deluxe on the lower link Bronson, Nomad, and Megatower, and found it to be too difficult to tune; and could never get it to my liking. I either had to set it up plush where it felt great through the chunk, but here bottomed easy and climbed horribly or set it harder so it could climb better but I got bounced around more in the chunk.
I am sure that new HT would be great with the X2! The X2 did wonders for both my old N3 and my current BronsonV3. I would loved have tried a X2 on my Rentals for the Mega and Nomad4. The Ripmo is the better option than the new HT for this reason. The Ripmo comes with the X2 and is the same price the HT is with Super Deluxe.
It would be nice if these frames had a no shock option, because it sucks having to pay another $600 on a shock for a brand new frame just to get the shock we want.
Can’t really disagree with you, the X2 is a great shock and I had the same experience with the other lower link bikes. For whatever reason, whether it was a change in the linkage or a reworked shock tune in the super deluxe + I did not experience the same issues with the HT.
@@IslandBikeLife ,
The linkage placement for the HT did change, but a shock should be able to tune for any particular linkage to get at least halfway of what we want.
The issue is with the Rockshox Super Deluxe Shock. It's a small volume can without much adjustments and the valving is done all wrong.
The linkage for the Mega is much more progressive than the Bronson3, but that Super Deluxe also sucked on the Mega and produced the same results I found on the BronsonV3.
One thing I noticed on the Hightower though is it has a DIFFERENT REAR SHOCK than the Mega, Bronson, and Nomad!
The Mega comes with he RS Super Deluxe ULTIMATE shock, and most likely that is why you find the bike suspension flow and "aura" to be much more to your liking.
This is why once again, we can't take any Bike Review too seriously, and it is up to the Rider to tune and upgrade his bike as needed.
Every Rider is different, every trail is different, and every shock is different, just too many variables.
One motto that Erich von Cartmann lives by is:
"We can adjust to any bike, and get any bike to ride the way we want if we are patient enough to take the time to learn the bike, the parts, the trails, and ourselves"
Nice man! Btw, what gloves were you wearing during this review? I really dig them
Thanks, they are from Tasco MTB.
Solid review as usual. I agree, at that price point it should come with good grips. I also think they should make their build kits around suspension. They should all come with a Super deluxe ultimate and then you would upgrade drive train, brakes, wheels... through the build kits. That blue 👌, I think the bike looks absolutely awesome. I like that rear mud guard, it shows that they care about details. I would like to demo that bike . 👊🏻
Thanks for the continued support!
I just ordered one yesterday! Now to wait for a while...
So how has it been?
Any plans to review the Esker Rowl? I'm really torn between Esker Rowl, Hightower and Forbidden Druid.
Hey, I have no way to get that bike on a demo around here. Thanks for watching though!
Be cool if Esker could send you one in the mail, do a shootout between Rowl, Ripmo,, Offering, Druid, SB140, Revel, Hightower...
After watching, now i decided to get this fuckn sick bike,,!!!. thanks for the great review..
Nice! Thanks for watching and enjoy our new bike.
Very detailed review! This bike on my shortlist and I’m very close to pulling the trigger, it seems to check all the boxes I’m looking for.
Thanks for watching!
hey buddy - nice review, like your honest opinion on bikes - quick question, how would you say the HT climbs compared to your sb150 or a sb130 you've demoed?
Climbs more like the SB130 for sure. I would say they are pretty equal in that way, very comparable bikes overall.
Your reviews are excellent! Good combination of tech and riding impressions. Thinking seriously about either the HT2 or the Tallboy 4. Do you think you'll have a review of that pretty soon?
The Tallboy 4 is on the list. I just got word from my local dealer it is ready to roll for next week so it will be coming for sure! Thanks for watching
The Tallboy 4 is on the list. I just got word from my local dealer it is ready to roll for next week so it will be coming for sure! Thanks for watching!
How does it compare with the SB150? Great review thanks
The Megatower is a better comparison, I have a head to head on the channel you can checkout.
Island Bike Life seem that one and enjoyed it.
This or the evil offering?
Descending is the HT far behind your 150?
Not by a large margin. Very capable bike.
Thanks, another great review!Hightower vs Ripmo??
Hightower, no question for me on that one. Better in every way from my experience on both
@@IslandBikeLife wow that says alot
I am 6' 1" with a 33 inseam. I would think that I would need an XL but I looked at the charts and they recommend the Large. Aren't you about the same measurements and didn't you say that you think the XL would be better? Have you had a chance to ride an XL now? If so, would you go with the XL?
I haven’t ridden and XL but I would absolutely go with that sizing. The Large fit bit I would be more comfortable with a little more reach and overall larger sizing given my measurements which are the same as yours.
Just received mine, same build plus carbon wheels and bars, after waiting 2 months and my impression of the bike matches your review exactly. The 2020 Hightower is a real game changer.
Glad you found it helpful. Enjoy the bike!
Very detailed review! This bike on my shortlist and I’m very close to pulling the trigger, it seems to check all the boxes I’m looking for.
Nice review. I am toying with getting a new ride for my 50th next year. I currently ride a Gen 1 5010, and am looking at the new High Tower and new 5010. Leaning toward the High Tower. You and I are about the same height and build so I have to ask you why the XL over the L? I would love to be able to test ride stuff but not sure if that will ever happen with COVID.
Thanks for watching, if you check the channel you will see my updated Hightower video. The XL just feels better overall, I lowered the stem down from 50 to 35 and the rest the same. It fits like a glove!
great review - really interested in your thoughts on how this compares to the RM instinct BC as Vancouver Island/Squamish type quiver of 1 bike? thanks!
Between those I would take the new HT for sure.
Hey thanks for the video, so you got the HT to replace your sb150. So did SB150 just not work as a trail bike at all or was it just that prospect of not racing? For a bigger stronger rider...
The SB150 was just a bit much for an everyday trail bike for me.
Hey, thanks for good review, much appreciated. Maybe u can say a thing about what size to pick up when one is on the edge of two sizes, im just right in between xl and xxl, the bike will be a allaround workhorse, from bombing hills to cross country long trips, any sugestions appreciated !!! :)
I am partial to going with an upsize.
@@IslandBikeLife :p sorry but im not best in english..... that means you would pick xxl or not ?
Yes that is correct. I like the feeling of the slightly larger bike if I am right in between.
Great review! So difficult to find people talking about bike like you do. So, now I am going to buy a second hand Hightower. Cheers from France
Cheers thanks for watching!
I factory demoed one and liked it. Been excited and waiting for this bike to come out. One thing I did not like was how active the steering felt. It felt over active and a little squirely to me. I guess I prefer a more predictable handling bike. The Megatower was definitely predictable to me. Did you notice that? The guy at Santa Cruz bikes knew what I meant and said he cured his bike by switching to a 40mm stem.
Interesting. I did not notice that but the switch to a shorter stem would reduce any amount of twitch in the steering.
Could you compare it to the forbidden Druid? Thx
Very different bikes. I would put the Druid more in line with the Tallboy.
👍👍👍
Comparison with the Hightower LT specifically?
I preferred it in every way. More well defined rather than a stop gap solution like the HTLT was.
11:29 You say "nice steep headtube angle at 65.2 degrees." Do you mean steep or slack? Great reviews though. I'm torn between the Hightower and Tallboy. The bike shop suggests the Hightower due to the downhill rock gardens so prevalent here.
Haha, slack - nice catch! Your shops advice does seem correct as the HT does deal with the more chunky downhill stuff better. You don't loose much going up to that bike in terms of climbing but do gain so much more on the way down.
@@IslandBikeLife thanks man.. I appreciate it
How does this compare to the YT Jeffsy 29 Pro Race?
I have never ridden any YT bike so I cannot day for certain.
Bought one at the end of August and I'm loving it. It took me awhile to get used to it on some tight, twisty trails around home but I'm getting the hang of it now. It just needed to be handled more aggressively than my 2010 Specialized Epic 26er. (which is still a great bike, by the way)
Nice! Glad you are enjoying it!
Hey, nice videos. I ride a 2018 trek slash. The seat tube is slakcker but apart from that the geo very similar to the new HT. Do you think I’d notice much of a difference between these bikes? Slash is 150/160 tho. I want more of a do it all trail bike that I can take to the park.
The HT is hands down a better all around bike than your slash. For me it would be right at the edge for any aggressive park riding but it could be done.
Island Bike Life went for a SB130 in the end. It climbs insanely like cheating. Very stiff. I road a Hightower around a parking lot and liked it but felt it wasn’t as good for pedaly long days as the SB130.
I still haven't decided on which to get, Bronson or Hightower, but whichever bike is next it will have a quite hub. I cannot stand that fishing rod sound on a bike. I like to ride trails which is to say I like to enjoy the ride but the sights and sounds of nature. The noise coming from the hub is like nails on a chalk board to me. I wish this bike came in a 27.5 plus size and I wish there were more color options. Santa Cruz doesn't seem to have much imagination in the color department. That is also an issue, everyone that buys one is more like to have the same colored bike. They could at least give different colored decals than the the ones they have available. What makes the decisionon selecting my next bike so difficult is some say the High Tower is a better climber and better on the trails and other say the Bronson is. At least with the Bronson it has more tire options ( width) than the High Tower. You can turn plus tires or normal 27.5 tires. I guess I just have to do more research. I don't have a shop that has demos. So I want to make sure I pick the right bike this time and not make another mistake like I did with the Scott Spark 960. This experience has made me not like 29ers. The bike is not very fun to ride at all and is very sluggish in tight turns. Their warranty sucks, only 5 years. Their hub isn't like most other bikes which make finding the right hub tricky. Thanks for the video and sharing your thoughts on this bike.
you can put 27.5+ tires on the HT2 - SC says "The Hightower is compatible with 27.5x 2.8" tires in addition to our typical 29x2.4 spec. If you go this route, you'll most likely want the Hi BB setting and a 160mm fork, to keep the BB height in the right range."
@@hectoragdeppa3520 that is for the info, that definitely helps with the decision making of my next purchase.
great review, just kinda odd that you keep getting a size too small in the santa cruzes
Yeah, I don’t really have a say on the size of bikes available, just have to deal with it haha. Thanks for watching!
solid review. Just watched this and your bronson review - do you feel like the suspension performed that much different on the HT? I am tempted by the 27.5 but it seems like people are more impressed by the 2020 HT
I found the HT superior to the Bronson. I had a really difficult time getting it to feel right. It was a great ride but the HT was better
Fair enough that’s good to know. I’m very tempted by the Bronson because I would prefer 27.5, though you and others seem more pleased with the HT despite the bikes being almost identical on paper (other than wheel size). It seems weird that the suspensions would feel that much different
Awesome review. How would you compare this to the Forbidden Druid? Both are very capable I'm sure, But which one was more playful and If you could only have one bike which would be your choice?
I really liked them both. I would probably go with the HT if I had to choose.
@@IslandBikeLife Any plans to review the Esker Rowl? I'm really torn between Esker Rowl, Hightower and Forbidden Druid. For riding up tech singletrack and down steep and rowdy descents in Nelson, BC, which do you think you would pick?
Would you recommend the 2019 tall boy A R or Hightower LT for a first full suspension bike? They are both going for $2899
For a 2019 I would probably lean towards the HT LT.
Island Bike Life sorry it’s the 2020 Hightower D or 2019 tall boy AR been reading about the YT Jeffsey and Ripmo AF.
How does it climb compared to the previous version for tight steep New England trails
It climbs better than the V1 in all scenarios. Really great all around bike.
1. Great reviews. Really enjoying your channel
2. Can you tell me some of the trails your riding here? I've ridden Benson mtn trails and love them but jone of these.
Thanks for the support. The trails featured here are Sexy Flanders, Max Power, Hot Tamale, Spankys and a couple others.
The only review that has negative comments and that makes this the best review online about this bike. Thanks for this. 👍
Thanks for watching!
Your price comparison towards the end was really off, A rocky mountain Instinct C50 is only 5500$. The C70 is only 6800, no clue where you are getting 7200 from.
Canadian dollars
@@IslandBikeLife The prices I listed above are also in Canadian currency.
Those are the 2019 pricing which is no longer relevant. Prices listed are 2020 models.
Nice review
bronson or HT for descending? its the 10G question im trying to figure out
I would take the HT.
@@IslandBikeLife thanks for the input
Demoed one today... think I’m going to pull the trigger. 😬
Nice! You will love it
Great Review. How did you get that coloured Graphic / font?
They are stickers anyone can buy.
How do you like it compared to the transition sentinel?
You’re doing the best reviews on youtube at the moment so thanks for the videos!
Thanks for the support. The sentinel is more of a bruiser. It was one of the first Bikes with the newer geo on the market. It is not as refined as some of the newest ones like the Hightower.
Nice review! How would you compare it with Fuel ex 9.8 29er 140mm front?
Can’t say, haven’t been on the Trek unfortunately.
Nice review! Curious how this would compare to the new niner rip 9 rdo. I’ve heard they also climb extremely well.
I am not too sure. There are no Niner dealers in my area. I have never actually seen one in person but they look well appointed
why is the santa cruz logo orange and not yellow?
They stickers that go over the lettering.
Have you ridden the Ibis Ripmo AF? If so how would you compare the two?
I have not, my local dealers do not have one on demo just yet.
@@IslandBikeLife I appreciate the reply keep up the good work!
BCBR capable? in your opinion?
Thanks in advance!
Any bike is capable for BCBR. I wouldn't take it, the new Tallboy coming Aug 20 will be a good BCBR choice by the looks of it.
@@IslandBikeLife Sorry I should of worded that better. Is it capable for the climbs in the BCBR or would you want something with a little less travel? Ya the new Tallboy will be good!
Thanks!
What's your favorite bike in the 150mm range?
Probably the SB150
How do you get it in that color? Online it's got the ugly tan letters.
They are just stickers. Anyone can buy them from SC directly or the local dealer. I agree - the tan isn't great.
@@IslandBikeLife awesome thanks I had no idea
How much?
Do you have an opinion of how the 2020 feels/ compares with the 2019 LT version?
Better in every way in my opinion. It climbs better, is a more enjoyable trail ride and more stable on descending.
@@IslandBikeLife Appreciated.
This or the sb130?
That’s a tricky one. Both are damn amazing and truly do it all bikes. In all ways they are very similar. The Yeti pedals a bit nicer and is a bit more firm when trail riding. Comes down more to what the brand offers than the riding they are so close.
@@IslandBikeLife Thank you! I was going to ask the same. I recently got to ride an SB130 for a couple days and I couldn't believe the stuff I was able to climb on that bike. So I've been really curious about how this new Hightower would compare given the similar seat angles. And descending on that SB130 down some pretty good rock gardens felt more like a 150mm travel full suspension to me -- super plush! The only thing I never did were any big sized drops, something I want to do in the future. Wondering how big of a difference the 130mm shock is (combined with switch infinity) vs the new Hightower's 140mm... Any insights there? Your videos are great and very helpful so thank you for that!
I would say they are pretty similar over all. The SI link really gives the feeling of a deeper suspension that you actually have. Both track pretty well but overall the SI is a bit stiffer of a platform.
Great videos. You’re now my go to for reviews. Nice work!
Similar question. I rode an XL SB130 last week and LOVED it. I can’t help but think though that at 6’5 I might fit better on an XXL Hightower with the longer reach and chain stay. Thoughts having ridden both which one would be the best fit as they seem to have pretty similar trail manners from you’re prior response. I really valued how well the SB130 climbed and kept its speed on rolling terrain.
William Timbers thanks for the support! I would think at your height the XXL HT would be the better choice for sure. Both that and the XL SB130 are pretty close and if you liked that fit I would go that way for sure.
I'm right between a Lg and Xl, why were you so convinced a Xl was going to be better? I have demo'd a Xl nomad and thought it was too long for me. Good climber, but too long for jumping.
The overall reach numbers better fit my body. The shorter bike felt a bit too tight climbing and a bit twitchy in descending. Going on the XL would have smoothed all that out.
I'd love one of these, it just hits that sweet spot
Yeah it is a really great all around bike that’s for sure.
Hi , thanks for the review ! Ripmo or Hightower2 , what has the best downhill performance ? Thanks
I prefer the Hightower to the Ripmo in everyday. Lots love the Ripmo but I never got along with it.
@@IslandBikeLife That seems to fly in the face of your Ripmo review doesn't it? I just looked at it again and you seemed very enthusiastic about it... From the reviews I've looked at, it's a fairly consistent opinion that the Ripmo and SB130 out-climb the HT while going the other way, it's the HT that shines. So do I believe this comment or your review?
L P depends what type of climbing there are lots of different hills. Technical climbs about traction not efficiency maybe
How does this compare to the Evil Offering or the SB130?
Both are good comparisons. I liked the Offering a lot, best Evil bike I have been on for sure. This new HT is a bit more refined. It climbs a touch better I would say. Both are very fun trail bikes and if you had the Offering set up with a 150 fork it would descend pretty on par. Same with the SB130, I think the Yeti climbs better but they are pretty equal otherwise. All three are very close and part of the decision will be brand preference and suspension platform that you like.
@@IslandBikeLife Thanks for the explanation! I figured they were super similar. Which one would you say is the most plush or capable while descending?
I would say either the HT or SB130. Very close overall. The HT is a bit longer size for size I think so a bit more stable at speed but sacrificing some agility, so depends what you value more.
Is there a big difference as far as climbing category with Tallboy or sb130? Tnx
Not really, both climb really well. The SI link on the Yeti I find climbs a bit better but the Tallboy is no slouch. Both are pretty equal.
@@IslandBikeLife no only slight difference as well in terms of climbing with the Hightower LT? Tnx
The HT LT doesn’t climb as well I found. It is okay but the others are more well rounded. The LT was a stop gap bike which is why it doesn’t exist anymore.
@@IslandBikeLife ok i think id go with Tallboy..climbing is more important to me than downhill..unless sb100 is better..im looking for a all rounder so i dont have to buy two bikes
Probably the Tallboy. The SB100 is a pretty great XC bike but the Tallboy is more versatile in comparison.
How would u compare this to the forbidden druid?
The Druid is an interesting bike that pedals amazing. It is a fun bike that descends very well. It has a bit more noise in the drive train and though I am sure the company/warranty are excellent is still new and untested on longer term durability.
@@IslandBikeLife thanks for that
is that a custom paint job?
Just customer decals.
Excellent review of the HT2, thank you! I have been on the HT1 for past 3.5 years, now with 150 fork, bigger reservoir shock and has been great for me here in the PacNW as well. I did demo the HT2 last month and was quite pleased with the descending capabilities on my usual AM trails and climbed as well as my HT1 even though new HT2 was about 2 lbs heavier. Could feel it when picking up the bikes, but never really noticed on climbs and the bit extra weight added to the planted, stable, but somehow still playful feel of bike, even though plusher in the rough and much longer. I plan to order one soon! Thanks again for great video and review
Thanks for watching and enjoy the new bike!
Good review and very nice bike!
Why the color of your test bike is not the same as the Santa Cruz website?
There are orange decals over the Santa Cruz part. The shop added them along with the company decals to match. Their business logo is orange.
@@IslandBikeLife I own a Rocky Instinct BC Edition and would like to go with Santa Cruz. I hesitate between the Megatower and the new Hightower. I know that the Hightower would be more appropriate for my ride, but since I am quite heavy and I liked my BC Edition, I'm afraid of downgrade ...I like rigid bikes for the times I ride more aggressive.Not easy to make a decision ... lol
Unless you are taking on huge park days or riding extremely rough terrain then the Megatower will be overkill. You still might like it more but the Hightower will take on just about anything.
@@IslandBikeLife I measure 5p10. According to Santa Cruz, I should go in the large but I'm not sure ... I roll medium on my BC Edition but it's a little small. It is better control but downhill it's a bit less stable ...
Yeah I would go with the large for sure. You will have better stability at speed and overall the bike will fit you nicer.
I agree the grips are horrible
johnny bravo First thing that I replaced on my Tallboy was the Santa Cruz grips. Went for Ergon grips.
can you review the new tallboy
It is in the works, stay tuned!
LT IS BETTER...RS NOT GOOD
How does the hightower compare to the bronson for do it all bike in your experience? Struggling with the choice, not sure about 29'' wheels and the slight increase in weight i have never rode a 29er. What do you think the pros n cons of each are when compared? Thanks for any input you have.
They are pretty different. The Bronson to me is a more rowdy type of trail bike. For me I found it to not pedal as nice and didn’t have the same stable feeling as it lends itself to getting airborne more often. It really comes down to what you prefer in a bike.
Ok that helps. I think i would enjoy the bronsons playfulness a bit more. Thanks alot gonna pick up a leftover carbon primer grey bronson. The 19s are 10% off too which swayed me over a 2020 plus i really dig the color.
I have a 2019 Bronson- C R + (+ being 2.6). Lots of vids of it on my channel- from my demo and post purchase. I prefer 27.5 and the Bronson is the best 27.5 do it all bike I’ve ever ridden. It skews more towards bigger- bigger hits, faster downs, bigger jumps and drops, but it can seriously do it all. The R builds’ shock does not have a lock out and even without it I averaged 15 mph on a slightly inclined paved trail over 5 miles. I have never wished for the lockout and just the opposite I love not having to think about one more thing. I did that ride with the same setup I used at a lift assist bike park the weekend before. The only thing is not great at is bigger logs and pedaling through flat rock gardens- bc it is quite low slung especially in the low setting- not pedal striky low but bb not super high- especially if sus is set softer. Interesting thing about the bike tho is that a few psi of air in the sus and she becomes a different bike. If I were gonna be pedaling all day- which to me sounds like purgatory (not quite hell but def not heaven) and if it were gonna include a bunch of flat pedally rock gardens I’d just firm it up a bit before I heading out. Since I don’t do much of that and am more downhill and pop and play oriented I just leave it a bit squishier and suck up the logs and flat rock Gardens so I can bomb and boost everything. Good hunting and you will love the Bronster.
Great info i appreciate it. I def want a do it all bike and I like that it will be super capable. I like doing mello trail riding one minute then be able to jump and pop off everything and rail berms the next. Also we have a bike park that is apart of our trail network that I want to start going to so thats why i think the bronsons a good fit. I think the hightower would be too but it seems the fun factor may be higher with the bronson and it weighs alittle less is a little more agile, snappy and poppy and i can get it at a discount in a rad color so thats what sold me. I would love to demo a 29er like the HT though just to try, maybe next yr. When you adjust your shocks do you follow what santa cruz suggests or do you do it on your own? My LBS said they would adjust it for me according to my weight when i pick it up.
I ended up getting a SC Nomad as my only bike, pedals great for the amount of travel it has and makes my washington bike park a breeze
Nice! I messaged you on Instagram about the Hightower on Saturday. I went and bought one (this same build) that same day. Great review and can’t wait to get my bike! Great work!
Thats great, you are going to love it! Thanks for watching.