Just a odd comment. I am 78 and just bought my first trail bike, a Vilano 29er hard tail for $377.00 delivered to my door. Put a suspension seat post and changed out the pedals to Fooker's and really just ride it on the street and hard dirt here in Arizona. Will just keep the fridge full with the 8K saved for beer. And, watch you young people do amazing things with your bikes. Enjoy these videos a lot. Your videos appeal to us old people too. Keep up the good work.
Thanks to this review I got into massive debt to buy this bike. Financial destitution has never been so appealing. I would still like to recognize my top-tier self-control for "only" buying the S build.
I watched part 1 of this series which was a big reason I bit the bullet and purchased my own Bronson about a month ago. So far, I'm incredibly happy with my choice. The perfect amount of travel, the mixed wheel set up, the climbing abilities, and descending fun... I love mine.
@@yamahschector Absolutely! Its an amazing bike. After a year of riding it, I'm still very much in love with this bike. I got the low end model so some of the components weren't the best, but i've swapped out a few things to make it a little more to my liking. I'm super happy with it.
I had it for almost 7 months. Coming from full 29ers for 2 years, the smaller rear wheel is extremely noticeable when you’re at speeds the travel number suggests. It’s a trail bike that can do everything, except the comfortable feeling at the same speeds as full 29ers with the same amount of travel. If you’re a 29er person, wait for the megatower.
Cool. I did notice that the stack is really high, even higher than a megatower, and this makes even worse for climbing I presume. I was hoping something similar to hightower except the smaller rear. Do you feel that higher stack is better or worse for overall Bronson experience?
I’ve had mine for about 2 months and I’m loving it so far! I came from a SC Hightower and can say I don’t really miss my Hightower because I’m loving my Bronson
@@edwardbntz8825 oh for sure the HT climbed better on prolonged climbs but on short punchy climbs the bronson is great. I’m just more into riding in park/jumps and features and the Bronson suits my riding style more. Can’t go wrong with either one though
Love the review...I bought a 2022 5010 S Build a couple of months ago...October in fact. I rode it and rode it and rode it THEN upgraded to Santa Cruz Carbon Reserve 30 Wheels set with DT Swiss Hubs which have LIT THIS BIKE UP and a Santa Cruz Carbon handlebar - way less fatigue. These Bikes ARE EXPENSIVE however I was still riding a 26" until 2021. The S builds seem to represent great value (if like me you're gonna keep it a good while!) and a good basis for upgrading the rig. Incidentally I know I am referencing my 5010 and not a Bronson BUT when it comes to sizing at 5'9" & 31" inside leg I went for a Size Large and it's perfect fit for me so I'd advise take a test ride for at least a day on each size if you're undecided i.e Small and a medium or a medium and large etc Great Content Guys Thank You Again! Also Vital MTB what are the Green shorts the rider is wearing in the Trail footage scenes? Thanks again from Sam in the UK.
Thanks for all the tips. Just got my Bronson S build. put the Reserve wheels with Hydra wheels on it.. spectacular wheels and hub. Your tips on setting up the suspension really helped... doing what you suggested with the seat and the traction made it feel like this bike climbs better than my Orbea Occam even though its 2 1/2 lbs heavier than the Occam. Occam is a great bike... this bike is better. only two hours hammering the snot out o my Bronson was enough to show me its great qualities... can't wait to learn to actually ride this bike the way it wants to be ridden! Thanks for the video... climbs awesome. plows down when i screwed up the line and yet allowed real precision riding when i was on my game. balance was great. i'm 6', 200 lbs... big boy. big bike. happy old man here!!
honestly as a bike mechanic, i see these absurdly expensive bikes fly through the shop all the time and santa cruz seems to be one of the most common ones. from what i've heard of them in the past in terms of pricing their bikes too high, i agree that all bikes are probably priced too high but with that said, usually bikes with sram axs stuff and carbon wheels are priced well above 10-11k so seeing santa cruz price this bike at just under 10k is actually pretty shocking and "good"
Are these bikes coming thru for routine maintenance by dentist owners or are there serious issues with these expensive bikes, which I would expect to be bomb proof?
@@flow2tech Yes, the joke was that may be a dentist wouldn't be interested in tuning his or her bike so would leave to a shop. But people like you or me would be interested in tuning the bike ourselves. So is it safe to say these are bomb proof bikes that doesn't require visits to the shops frequently?
I had a carbon 2019 Bronson 27.5 with the new lower VPP linkage in Boise and did not like it. An early ride was on ATM, and it felt slow, doggish,, and made it harder to clean the short tech section near the backside. I'm a solid all around trail rider with over 20 years in this incredible sport. I found it perplexing that a bike like that deteriorated rather than improved my riding. Maybe I didn't give it enough time, or Joyride didn't set it up properly for me. I ended up selling it at a loss to a stoked buyer, and finding a 2018 Intense Primer 29. That bike absolutely ripped, and improved my riding and Strava times. I think it can be easy to be overbiked sometimes - especially in Boise, and maybe that's what happened - I'd not had a bike with as slack of a head angle, and maybe more time on it was needed.
Hey @Vital MTB thanks for the great review. Interested to know how Brad found the fit on the medium frame Bronson vs medium frame Nomad and his height? Would Brad consider a large on either of those bikes? Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed the review! Brad is 5'9" with a long torso and short legs (30" inseam). After testing both of these bikes in a medium and toying with some large frames, a medium is absolutely the right fit for him. Our other rider (super boost-o-matic, Logan) is 5'10" and also enjoyed the Bronson in a medium. Cheers!
I completely agree, MTB cant really get any better than they already are right now so what can we do? Make them cheaper and more available to middle class or below Considering not allot of people have £7,000 to dish out on a MTB when some of us literally never have more then £4,000 in the bank and spend 40% of our wages on bills, I'd Live, Breathe and Die for The Santa Cruz Bronson or a Hightower 3, It fits standards to make my life enjoyable, I love Trial/Urban trial/Downhill biking but I certainly don't want to have to spend 11 x My rent bill alone to be able to enjoy myself However If one of these bad boys was actually affordable I'd be on that thing Everyday
It's great Bike / Santa Cruz Rules . The Bronson is interesting . It pedals nicely but doesn't feel nimble at all but it's a Beast. Not a big fan of the 27.5 back tire, felt odd. Now this just a sample size but for me personally I think The Blur is where I'm heading/ Fast, Nimble n Fierce. the Bronson is $ 6200 which is legit but just not for me, but Santa Cruz is the real deal...
I don't understand this ongoing questioning of mullet bikes, at 5' 7" I just don't have the leg length to deal with a 29 so a mullet is the obvious answer before even considering the added responsiveness.
Same exact height. You might not see this before I buy the Bronson but if you're running a mullet do you find your rear end doesn't hit the back tire often on the downhill? lol. Seems to happen quite a bit to me with my short legs on my Stumpjumper.
Hi Vital mtb,I have the same bike with same fork but can't seem to dial in perfectly to my liking.Would you mind sharing you high speed and low speed rebound?Thank you!
I'm really enjoying your videos. Great work! I'm trying to decide between a new Bronson v4.1 cc x01 axs or a Pivot Mach 6 Pro x01 coil. I'm not interested in fastest down the trail. I want the most fun! Which bike did you have more fun on and why? Second, which one was the better climber? Ideally, I want the suffering to the top to be as minimal as possible. Thank you!
I'm looking for a new bike in uk looked at bronson £5000 for a bike with nx Eagle wow I no you get life time warranty on frame and bearings got take that into account. And next to it was a cube stereo 150 team also carbon with fox factory suspension all with the gold coating and on dropper post is it koshima coated with shimano xtr and it was £700 pound cheaper than the bronson not rushing to buy a bike going to a trek shop today have a look at the slash
The Bronson is definitely down to handle more than the 5010 due to the travel and the big front wheel. As you could see, it's still plenty nimble in the park and jumps, too. If you don't have big terrain, the 5010 is still awesome. Here's our video if you missed it - th-cam.com/video/MtFL5nO4r4U/w-d-xo.html
I've never understood why Santa Cruz usually build their bikes with a Fox fork but a rockshox shock. Is there any good reason? That's not common I think 🤔
Hello Vital bikes. I've owned my V4 Nomad for 3 years , have a chance to get into a new frame now. Kind debating between this new Bronson and Nomad V5. I live in Vancouver, I like my Nomad a lot, but I did have a lot moments that I wish I had bigger wheels for the local trails here. After I reading few reviews, my understanding is this mullet set up will be better on rough stuff better than the Nomad ,even with less travel? Please give me some recommendations, thank you!
@@MiChElnumber4 Hi there. I went with the Bronson. It's hard for me to admit that cause I enjoyed and loved the V4 Nomad for 4 years, but I can say that the new Bronson is better in pretty much everyway than the nomad. Mullet set up is a big step up for me to ride my local trails at Vancouver BC area, suspension feels great, never really felt I have 20mm less travel, it feels more active and playful but it also feels more stable at speed due to the updated geo I think. The new Nomad V5 just landed as a mullet too, I bet its very nice too. Just depends on what kind of terrain you gonna ride I think. Btw, I was coming from 27 wheels, so took me a little bit time to get used to mullet, even now, I still don't feel 100% on berms, but I think it is just matter of time to get there. Hope this helps, cheers.
Hi, you recommended the s-kit but what about the XT Version. Santa Cruz bar, industry nine 1/1, small Upgrades of Fork and damper and finally great brakes and Drive train. All for 700 more. What do you think, valuable Combo?
so the S build, Fox performance forks if you were putting your money down. ... do you think there's enough benefit to the Factory suspension over the Performance to pay the extra $2k+ to get that? and yes, i realize the $2k+ gets more than just factory upgrade, but seems the only way to get Factory is to be willing to pay for x01 upgrade while Pivot offer factory in a $7500 build and Ibis offer Factory suspension in their lowest level build... bummed Bronson doesn't offer something like that
Both of those are among our favorite bikes this last year but for very different reasons. The 141 has a much more serious, hauling-ass kind of nature to it and feels like it will climb up a wall with enough power. Where it falls off is in the "fun" department. This would be where the Bronson takes over, fantastic trail manners with plenty of room for tom-foolery. It boils down to what and how you like to ride.
@@vitalmtb Thank you so much for the response! I had a 5010 that I loved for playing around on the trails near my house, but looking for something that will be a little bit better for an occasional bike park and more aggressive trail rides, but still have a ton of fun on. Looks like I'll have to place an order on a Bronson!
@@olsod1 i can tell you that the Bronson V3 fits what you are looking for exactly- cause that’s exactly how I use it. And I don’t think they diminished that all with the V4. 🤙
We've had concerns with the durability of the NX drivetrain. Our main concern here is the NX cassette uses the older, HG driver body which will make upgrading down the road more involved and expensive due to the included cost of a new rear hub/wheel. Taking the cost hit up front with the S (GX) build will get riders on the latest hub standards.
here's our Rallon test - th-cam.com/video/ZiFX52O90lI/w-d-xo.html - the Rallon is definitely a bigger bike but was still plenty playful. If you lean towards bigger, rowdier riding more regularly, then the Rallon is it. If you lean towards riding that is more trail oriented or jumpy/flowy with less frequent big-hit terrain, than the Bronson is the call.
Nice review. Recently sold my 2018 hightower lt. Like the fit in a medium. Now with this frame, the geo is good for me in a small. With new geo’s these days. Not sure who the long frames are for?
You should demo one somewhere where you can get it up to speed. They’re a ton more stable at speed. I actually sized up with my Bronson V3 I like the extra front center and reach so much. They do lose some of that flickability but SC seems to minimize that more than some other brands, and their sweet spot is when pushing it more. Just a different way to ride. For me, being about to hit 50 and not looking to add any more injuries to my already too long list, I like the extra safety net they provide. ODB (Ol Dirty Bronson is her name) has bailed me out of some self inflicted botches.
I hear you have to put more emphasis on more weight up front on long slack bikes when turning. I use to have 2bikes. That Hightower LT and now my 2019 Norco Sight carbon 29er. Both very much flickable and tons of fun on fast runs too. I feel like , ive got the best of both world’s. Norco has a shorter chainstay. Love that. I am over 50 and im not sure if I need a faster down hill bike. I can easily go over my skill set on a bike that’s long and too slack. With all these frame geo going so long and slack…. It takes me out of the market for new frame. And ive been riding FS bikes for 7 years. Besides most of my local trails have tight corners. In a sense its actually not so good for beginners. They aren’t skilled enough to go fast to benefit the updated geo. And then these bikes are kinda cumbersome at slow speeds for beginners. Which makes it not so fun. Then when they do open it up on the downs… the speed can easily go over their skill set, which could be dangerous
@@catg9196 couldn’t agree more. Took me a good two years to finally get the cornering down, and sometimes I still find I slip into the old muscle memory. I always encourage newbies to get a bike that will force them to do it, and not rely on the bike. Once the skills are there, then go get the bigger bike. But man, if you have the experience and enjoy going fast, they are so much fun. I don’t ever want one that takes away the fun factor of riding, which is why for the sweet spot is a Santa sized up. Whatever we ride tho, at least we’re riding! Have fun out there. 🤙
Hey Vital MTB, my understanding was that you were supposed to analyze "what's a 10K bike looks like after an entire season" hence emphasizing on what a customer would experience differently, through time, between mid (S) and high-end spec.
Great video! Thanks. Why do Fox and Santa Cruz insist on putting those ugly blue caps on the forks when they do NOT match the color scheme of a bike that is over $5000 - $9000.
Because it makes the bike cheaper having to have two different paint lines in production will needlessly increase price and if you don’t like it spray paint is only 10 bucks
I've had 3 sets of bearings from them in the UK. All delivered within a week of claiming. I also had a frame replaced under warranty. I normally don't comment, but they have been outstanding with me.
Havent made a warranty claim yet but bearing been no problem. To me within a week of ordering. Frame warranty is only for manufacturing defects. They will call you on it if you’re trying to claim it for a crash. Although for a crash they will sell you replacement at discount. Which is cool.
Really too bad SC is doing carbon only for this bike. I bought a V3 aluminum for $3.5k. It rides so well and is I feel an insane value. $5k is a lot. Hopefully they will make an aluminum version.
I don't know why I even watch these videos. I'll never pay out that much money for a bike. I feel like I'm allu for life, have had carbon with chips or cracks and it's the worst feeling. I like that transition provide some allu models I think one of their frames would be dream bike for me, or a nice commencal.
@@petertyliszczak3411 6 or 7 months is not “long term” man. Let’s just be real about why they really put the words “long term review” in the title….so more people would click on the video. I’m not hating, I’m just calling it for what it is. “Long term” is often considered to be longer than 3 years. The only living thing that would consider 7 months to be “long term” would be a gold fish, and….you I suppose. 👊🏼🤪
@@TheCureThatKillz lol. Please go tell the wide world of internet reviewers from phones to trucks, computers, headphones, bikes, lawnmowers. They've all been inappropriately using the phrase long term and need to stop.
@@petertyliszczak3411 no need to get your panties in a bunch dude and jump on the defense. I’m simply stating that 7 months is not classified as a “long term” period of time. You said it yourself, “a whole riding season”. If you went to take a multiple choice test and the question was “which of these time spans is considered “long term” and they have options for 2 - 7 months, 7 months to 2 years or 2 years to 4 years…. you and I both know the majority of people will choose the longest time span option. If you weren’t being a prick and had an ounce of humility within yourself you’d admit that but this is the internet and you’re a gold fish so we know that won’t happen. Do you also think 2+2 could equal 6?? Or is 4 the correct answer?!? LOL #dewey
Great vid, great bike! seeing as high prices are a talking point, there is no way on earth I can shell out the asking price to replace my S-Works Enduro - They're £10,800 here in Blighty any chance you could test one, so I know what I'm missing?
I demo'd one a month or so ago thinking I'd be buying one. I was shocked I didn't like it more. Definitely a great bike but it's going to take more to get $6k+ out of this cheapskate.
@@radidoc4832 Nada. I demo'd the Bronson, Ripmo, Sentinel and am still looking. Thankful to have my old Bronson around while I search, which makes me think I should stay loyal to SC... I wish I could ride a Pivot but the local Pivot dealer is on my "dead to me" list lol. What are you riding or looking to ride?
@@crjmoto I have a 5 year old Cannondale Trigger 27.5 with old geo and a lefty, that I wanted to upgrade before I get really old and have to get an ebike. I was thinking of Mullet like Bronson or Stumpjumper Evo with Mullet link. Main reason is I have short legs and want to avoid butt buzz from 29 rear. I really need to get some Demos time!
@@radidoc4832 Trigger's are awesome and I loved riding a lefty (Cannondale Prophet). I think the Bronson is worth the demo cost for you. Build quality is great. Rocky Mountain has the option of a Mullet build as well. That one seems to be popular here in Western CO. Good luck!
The model they tested would come in at around ₹736247. Even in usd the cost is staggering when some fairly well built full suspension bikes can be had at or above ₹178527.
As someone who lives where it rains a lot with a ton of mud, I'm having a hard time getting excited about these bikes with that low shock placement... jus' sayin'.
The thing about this bike is, it is very good. It really is and it's a fun bike too. But it's very expensive. It's not made in America and it's not even made in Taiwan (my C model isn't anyway) but yet it's still almost a full grand more expensive than a fact 11m stumpjumper. Another nitpick is that the cable routing is very dissapointing. Plus if you get the at $5950 it's quite disappointing to get lowest quality code brakes and a select shock with no low speed adjustment. Other than that the bike is great and the Reverb is supprisingly excellent. But specialized is a much better choice I think.
Video contents
0:00 - Introduction
2:18 - Nomad and Hightower
3:03 - Climbing
3:49 - Descending
5:44 - Durability
6:02 - Build and Parts
8:15 - Price
9:19 - What's the Bottom Line?
► Read Vital's in-depth Santa Cruz Bronson review - www.vitalmtb.com/product/guide/Bikes,3/Santa-Cruz/Bronson-MX-Carbon-CC-X01-AXS,34115#product-reviews/4095/expand
► Santa Cruz Nomad Review - th-cam.com/video/WS_LcYE_UZ0/w-d-xo.html
► Santa Cruz Hightower Review - th-cam.com/video/6RaTjiScQYM/w-d-xo.html
► Santa Cruz Bronson First Ride - th-cam.com/video/8ii7jsPCABg/w-d-xo.html
Just a odd comment. I am 78 and just bought my first trail bike, a Vilano 29er hard tail for $377.00 delivered to my door. Put a suspension seat post and changed out the pedals to Fooker's and really just ride it on the street and hard dirt here in Arizona. Will just keep the fridge full with the 8K saved for beer. And, watch you young people do amazing things with your bikes. Enjoy these videos a lot. Your videos appeal to us old people too. Keep up the good work.
don't support the fookers they're just a knock off copy of the race face Chesters.
Love your thinking. :)
That was a badass comment. 💪🏼
Thanks to this review I got into massive debt to buy this bike. Financial destitution has never been so appealing. I would still like to recognize my top-tier self-control for "only" buying the S build.
1 year after… as it been worth going into debt?
The Large is too big so I am looking to downsize. Disaster
Everytime i get on this bike it brings a massive smile to my face. It makes you do things on trails/jumps you've never done before. Hooligan
I watched part 1 of this series which was a big reason I bit the bullet and purchased my own Bronson about a month ago. So far, I'm incredibly happy with my choice. The perfect amount of travel, the mixed wheel set up, the climbing abilities, and descending fun... I love mine.
Would you still buy one again. I found a deal on a c r version 4199.99 brand new. Very twmpting
@@yamahschector Absolutely! Its an amazing bike. After a year of riding it, I'm still very much in love with this bike. I got the low end model so some of the components weren't the best, but i've swapped out a few things to make it a little more to my liking. I'm super happy with it.
I had it for almost 7 months. Coming from full 29ers for 2 years, the smaller rear wheel is extremely noticeable when you’re at speeds the travel number suggests. It’s a trail bike that can do everything, except the comfortable feeling at the same speeds as full 29ers with the same amount of travel. If you’re a 29er person, wait for the megatower.
Also. It’s not as great at technical climbs as full 29. And yes the front end is extremely light and lifty during steep climbs.
@@ridemx323 I'm a 29er person and I'm leaning towards getting a Hightower. I do really like the gold color of the Bronson though.
Cool. I did notice that the stack is really high, even higher than a megatower, and this makes even worse for climbing I presume. I was hoping something similar to hightower except the smaller rear. Do you feel that higher stack is better or worse for overall Bronson experience?
I’ve had mine for about 2 months and I’m loving it so far! I came from a SC Hightower and can say I don’t really miss my Hightower because I’m loving my Bronson
How’s that ? Did you not climb any good on the HT?
@@edwardbntz8825 oh for sure the HT climbed better on prolonged climbs but on short punchy climbs the bronson is great. I’m just more into riding in park/jumps and features and the Bronson suits my riding style more. Can’t go wrong with either one though
Just picked up my Bronson. It’s an absolute dream. I never thought I would spend so much 💵 on a bike. But YOLO. time to shred 🤙
Folks what an EXCELLENT review, sharp, straight to the point etc. Thanks! Sicks shots with that
Hey Vital MTB. What's about a Long-Term Review of the Transition Scout?
I second that
Yea, we are still waiting. They is even an alloy version for y’all to test now too 🤷🏼
Our Transition Scout review...SUPER fun bike! th-cam.com/video/RN_SDx5fZ1I/w-d-xo.html
@@vitalmtb Yes, thx. I know that first review you made 2020, but what about long-term?
I have been searching for a CC AXS bronson or hightower in Medium for 5 months now. Glad to know the wait is at least worth it.
Been waiting for this review. And can’t Waite for my Bronson to arrive December 10
I’m considering the new Bronson. I don’t do really any jumping but love tech trails I do a good amount of pedaling. I do like some flow trails too.
Love the review...I bought a 2022 5010 S Build a couple of months ago...October in fact. I rode it and rode it and rode it THEN upgraded to Santa Cruz Carbon Reserve 30 Wheels set with DT Swiss Hubs which have LIT THIS BIKE UP and a Santa Cruz Carbon handlebar - way less fatigue. These Bikes ARE EXPENSIVE however I was still riding a 26" until 2021. The S builds seem to represent great value (if like me you're gonna keep it a good while!) and a good basis for upgrading the rig. Incidentally I know I am referencing my 5010 and not a Bronson BUT when it comes to sizing at 5'9" & 31" inside leg I went for a Size Large and it's perfect fit for me so I'd advise take a test ride for at least a day on each size if you're undecided i.e Small and a medium or a medium and large etc
Great Content Guys Thank You Again!
Also Vital MTB what are the Green shorts the rider is wearing in the Trail footage scenes?
Thanks again from Sam in the UK.
I like this new style of video
Thanks for all the tips. Just got my Bronson S build. put the Reserve wheels with Hydra wheels on it.. spectacular wheels and hub. Your tips on setting up the suspension really helped... doing what you suggested with the seat and the traction made it feel like this bike climbs better than my Orbea Occam even though its 2 1/2 lbs heavier than the Occam. Occam is a great bike... this bike is better. only two hours hammering the snot out o my Bronson was enough to show me its great qualities... can't wait to learn to actually ride this bike the way it wants to be ridden! Thanks for the video... climbs awesome. plows down when i screwed up the line and yet allowed real precision riding when i was on my game. balance was great. i'm 6', 200 lbs... big boy. big bike. happy old man here!!
What size did you go with?
@@JohnnStamos I’m 6 foot tall. Chose the large. Really good fit for me. 32” inseam if that helps.
@@JohnnStamos I’m 6 foot tall. Chose the large. Really good fit for me. 32” inseam if that helps.
Excellent review, especially the production quality !
honestly as a bike mechanic, i see these absurdly expensive bikes fly through the shop all the time and santa cruz seems to be one of the most common ones. from what i've heard of them in the past in terms of pricing their bikes too high, i agree that all bikes are probably priced too high but with that said, usually bikes with sram axs stuff and carbon wheels are priced well above 10-11k so seeing santa cruz price this bike at just under 10k is actually pretty shocking and "good"
Are these bikes coming thru for routine maintenance by dentist owners or are there serious issues with these expensive bikes, which I would expect to be bomb proof?
@@radidoc4832 what's with the dentist comments constantly..I'm mere tradesman's heavy equipment mechanic..I can afford this stuff
@@flow2tech Yes, the joke was that may be a dentist wouldn't be interested in tuning his or her bike so would leave to a shop. But people like you or me would be interested in tuning the bike ourselves. So is it safe to say these are bomb proof bikes that doesn't require visits to the shops frequently?
@@radidoc4832 I get it now brother...lol..I just prioritize my life in a way where I can afford a nice bike.. Health investing...
Excellent review
I had a carbon 2019 Bronson 27.5 with the new lower VPP linkage in Boise and did not like it. An early ride was on ATM, and it felt slow, doggish,, and made it harder to clean the short tech section near the backside. I'm a solid all around trail rider with over 20 years in this incredible sport. I found it perplexing that a bike like that deteriorated rather than improved my riding. Maybe I didn't give it enough time, or Joyride didn't set it up properly for me. I ended up selling it at a loss to a stoked buyer, and finding a 2018 Intense Primer 29. That bike absolutely ripped, and improved my riding and Strava times. I think it can be easy to be overbiked sometimes - especially in Boise, and maybe that's what happened - I'd not had a bike with as slack of a head angle, and maybe more time on it was needed.
some bikes arent made for everyone. so many factors go into it
Hey @Vital MTB thanks for the great review. Interested to know how Brad found the fit on the medium frame Bronson vs medium frame Nomad and his height? Would Brad consider a large on either of those bikes? Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed the review! Brad is 5'9" with a long torso and short legs (30" inseam). After testing both of these bikes in a medium and toying with some large frames, a medium is absolutely the right fit for him. Our other rider (super boost-o-matic, Logan) is 5'10" and also enjoyed the Bronson in a medium. Cheers!
How does it compare vs stumpy evo (in mullet mode)
That's the ultimate question for those who want a Mullet!
what the biggest difference between C and CC ? is CC frame worth the money?
I completely agree, MTB cant really get any better than they already are right now so what can we do?
Make them cheaper and more available to middle class or below Considering not allot of people have £7,000 to dish out on a MTB when some of us literally never have more then £4,000 in the bank and spend 40% of our wages on bills, I'd Live, Breathe and Die for The Santa Cruz Bronson or a Hightower 3, It fits standards to make my life enjoyable, I love Trial/Urban trial/Downhill biking but I certainly don't want to have to spend 11 x My rent bill alone to be able to enjoy myself However If one of these bad boys was actually affordable I'd be on that thing Everyday
Great review👌
yup... i want a bronson
update.... ya boy got a bronson!
Great video. Regarding fork adjustment, you mentioned dampening settings. How did you have rebound set?
It's great Bike / Santa Cruz Rules . The Bronson is interesting . It pedals nicely but doesn't feel nimble at all but it's a Beast. Not a big fan of the 27.5 back tire, felt odd. Now this just a sample size but for me personally I think The Blur is where I'm heading/ Fast, Nimble n Fierce. the Bronson is $ 6200 which is legit but just not for me, but Santa Cruz is the real deal...
I don't understand this ongoing questioning of mullet bikes, at 5' 7" I just don't have the leg length to deal with a 29 so a mullet is the obvious answer before even considering the added responsiveness.
Same exact height. You might not see this before I buy the Bronson but if you're running a mullet do you find your rear end doesn't hit the back tire often on the downhill? lol. Seems to happen quite a bit to me with my short legs on my Stumpjumper.
@@tkbikesnc6079 I was a bit unclear, I meant back wheel clearance not standover.
There is a Bronson C R deal I came across for 4199.99 it’s tempting. I just need time with one.
True about the Fox, but in my case I had to eliminate the tokens and the harshness went away.
Weird that SC is putting a Fox fork with a RS shock.... except on the R build where it's a RS fork and a Fox shock.
Good luck setting the sag with a fox shock.
Another sick review
Glad you liked it
Hi Vital mtb,I have the same bike with same fork but can't seem to dial in perfectly to my liking.Would you mind sharing you high speed and low speed rebound?Thank you!
I'm really enjoying your videos. Great work! I'm trying to decide between a new Bronson v4.1 cc x01 axs or a Pivot Mach 6 Pro x01 coil. I'm not interested in fastest down the trail. I want the most fun! Which bike did you have more fun on and why? Second, which one was the better climber? Ideally, I want the suffering to the top to be as minimal as possible. Thank you!
wait til August, new bronson v5 coming out.
This bikes sick!!! I’m still waiting for a revised Megatower though.
and hightower!
I'm looking for a new bike in uk looked at bronson £5000 for a bike with nx Eagle wow I no you get life time warranty on frame and bearings got take that into account. And next to it was a cube stereo 150 team also carbon with fox factory suspension all with the gold coating and on dropper post is it koshima coated with shimano xtr and it was £700 pound cheaper than the bronson not rushing to buy a bike going to a trek shop today have a look at the slash
The question that still never got answered- how does it compare to my V4 5010? Feeling a little jealous of the Bronson :)
The Bronson is definitely down to handle more than the 5010 due to the travel and the big front wheel. As you could see, it's still plenty nimble in the park and jumps, too. If you don't have big terrain, the 5010 is still awesome. Here's our video if you missed it - th-cam.com/video/MtFL5nO4r4U/w-d-xo.html
what better bike this one or Trek Slash?
I've never understood why Santa Cruz usually build their bikes with a Fox fork but a rockshox shock. Is there any good reason? That's not common I think 🤔
I would do the opposite
Love my bronson
Hello Vital bikes. I've owned my V4 Nomad for 3 years , have a chance to get into a new frame now. Kind debating between this new Bronson and Nomad V5. I live in Vancouver, I like my Nomad a lot, but I did have a lot moments that I wish I had bigger wheels for the local trails here. After I reading few reviews, my understanding is this mullet set up will be better on rough stuff better than the Nomad ,even with less travel? Please give me some recommendations, thank you!
What did you get in the end? If u bought a Bronson, is it better than the nomad v4?
@@MiChElnumber4 Hi there. I went with the Bronson. It's hard for me to admit that cause I enjoyed and loved the V4 Nomad for 4 years, but I can say that the new Bronson is better in pretty much everyway than the nomad. Mullet set up is a big step up for me to ride my local trails at Vancouver BC area, suspension feels great, never really felt I have 20mm less travel, it feels more active and playful but it also feels more stable at speed due to the updated geo I think. The new Nomad V5 just landed as a mullet too, I bet its very nice too. Just depends on what kind of terrain you gonna ride I think. Btw, I was coming from 27 wheels, so took me a little bit time to get used to mullet, even now, I still don't feel 100% on berms, but I think it is just matter of time to get there. Hope this helps, cheers.
sorry I was trying to say the new Nomad V6 ;)
Hi, you recommended the s-kit but what about the XT Version. Santa Cruz bar, industry nine 1/1, small Upgrades of Fork and damper and finally great brakes and Drive train. All for 700 more. What do you think, valuable Combo?
From 1 to 10 how improved was the climbing with the adjustments you guys did
so the S build, Fox performance forks if you were putting your money down. ... do you think there's enough benefit to the Factory suspension over the Performance to pay the extra $2k+ to get that? and yes, i realize the $2k+ gets more than just factory upgrade, but seems the only way to get Factory is to be willing to pay for x01 upgrade while Pivot offer factory in a $7500 build and Ibis offer Factory suspension in their lowest level build... bummed Bronson doesn't offer something like that
What are those stickers all over the frame?
Looks like a fine bike, but I am missing some direct comparisons to other bikes. What makes it special?
If you had to buy with your own money, would you pick privateer 141 GX build, or bronson C S build?
Both of those are among our favorite bikes this last year but for very different reasons. The 141 has a much more serious, hauling-ass kind of nature to it and feels like it will climb up a wall with enough power. Where it falls off is in the "fun" department. This would be where the Bronson takes over, fantastic trail manners with plenty of room for tom-foolery. It boils down to what and how you like to ride.
@@vitalmtb Thank you so much for the response! I had a 5010 that I loved for playing around on the trails near my house, but looking for something that will be a little bit better for an occasional bike park and more aggressive trail rides, but still have a ton of fun on. Looks like I'll have to place an order on a Bronson!
@@olsod1 i can tell you that the Bronson V3 fits what you are looking for exactly- cause that’s exactly how I use it. And I don’t think they diminished that all with the V4. 🤙
What parts on the R kit build are not meant to last?
We've had concerns with the durability of the NX drivetrain. Our main concern here is the NX cassette uses the older, HG driver body which will make upgrading down the road more involved and expensive due to the included cost of a new rear hub/wheel. Taking the cost hit up front with the S (GX) build will get riders on the latest hub standards.
How would you compare the Bronson to the new Orbea Rallon? Debating between these two bikes. Great video keep up the good work
here's our Rallon test - th-cam.com/video/ZiFX52O90lI/w-d-xo.html - the Rallon is definitely a bigger bike but was still plenty playful. If you lean towards bigger, rowdier riding more regularly, then the Rallon is it. If you lean towards riding that is more trail oriented or jumpy/flowy with less frequent big-hit terrain, than the Bronson is the call.
@@vitalmtb Boise foothills , eagle bike park , Tamarack, Bogus, McCall area.
Nice review. Recently sold my 2018 hightower lt. Like the fit in a medium. Now with this frame, the geo is good for me in a small. With new geo’s these days. Not sure who the long frames are for?
You should demo one somewhere where you can get it up to speed. They’re a ton more stable at speed. I actually sized up with my Bronson V3 I like the extra front center and reach so much. They do lose some of that flickability but SC seems to minimize that more than some other brands, and their sweet spot is when pushing it more. Just a different way to ride. For me, being about to hit 50 and not looking to add any more injuries to my already too long list, I like the extra safety net they provide. ODB (Ol Dirty Bronson is her name) has bailed me out of some self inflicted botches.
I hear you have to put more emphasis on more weight up front on long slack bikes when turning. I use to have 2bikes. That Hightower LT and now my 2019 Norco Sight carbon 29er. Both very much flickable and tons of fun on fast runs too. I feel like , ive got the best of both world’s. Norco has a shorter chainstay. Love that. I am over 50 and im not sure if I need a faster down hill bike. I can easily go over my skill set on a bike that’s long and too slack. With all these frame geo going so long and slack…. It takes me out of the market for new frame. And ive been riding FS bikes for 7 years. Besides most of my local trails have tight corners.
In a sense its actually not so good for beginners. They aren’t skilled enough to go fast to benefit the updated geo. And then these bikes are kinda cumbersome at slow speeds for beginners. Which makes it not so fun. Then when they do open it up on the downs… the speed can easily go over their skill set, which could be dangerous
@@catg9196 couldn’t agree more. Took me a good two years to finally get the cornering down, and sometimes I still find I slip into the old muscle memory. I always encourage newbies to get a bike that will force them to do it, and not rely on the bike. Once the skills are there, then go get the bigger bike. But man, if you have the experience and enjoy going fast, they are so much fun. I don’t ever want one that takes away the fun factor of riding, which is why for the sweet spot is a Santa sized up. Whatever we ride tho, at least we’re riding! Have fun out there. 🤙
Having said that , im curious about a mullet set up. Ill wait a year and a half. I build up my bikes.
@@catg9196 me too. Soon as they have demos again i wanna try the newBronson and Chameleon.
Glad you got the fork set up properly, unlike the Pivot Firebird review.
Hey Vital MTB, my understanding was that you were supposed to analyze "what's a 10K bike looks like after an entire season" hence emphasizing on what a customer would experience differently, through time, between mid (S) and high-end spec.
Great video! Thanks. Why do Fox and Santa Cruz insist on putting those ugly blue caps on the forks when they do NOT match the color scheme of a bike that is over $5000 - $9000.
Because it makes the bike cheaper having to have two different paint lines in production will needlessly increase price and if you don’t like it spray paint is only 10 bucks
Can you give me 2021 model of Santa Cruz Bronzon?
The bikes are great and the price outrageous, but it's nice to Dream .🙈🙉🙊
Long term on the Nomad, pleeeease 🙏🏼🤙🏼
our nomad review. it wasn't as long-term as the bronson, but we were impressed for sure! th-cam.com/video/WS_LcYE_UZ0/w-d-xo.html
@@vitalmtb that’s ooooooold 🙈
But okay, since I have my own Nomad now, I have to make my own ‘long term review’ I guess 😂🤓
Happy trails 🤙🏼
Its still an amazing bike in 2024 and you can get one for 2500 used
yeah sure, try to order a new set of bearings from SC, or apply for warranty and see how far you'll get.
my lbs changes them every service if i bring it in
Did a bearing warranty claim on 11/4 and they shipped 11/11. So pretty quick considering current delays.
@@Lozy_mtb damn, nice!
I've had 3 sets of bearings from them in the UK. All delivered within a week of claiming. I also had a frame replaced under warranty. I normally don't comment, but they have been outstanding with me.
Havent made a warranty claim yet but bearing been no problem. To me within a week of ordering. Frame warranty is only for manufacturing defects. They will call you on it if you’re trying to claim it for a crash. Although for a crash they will sell you replacement at discount. Which is cool.
Really too bad SC is doing carbon only for this bike. I bought a V3 aluminum for $3.5k. It rides so well and is I feel an insane value. $5k is a lot. Hopefully they will make an aluminum version.
Broke people problems.
Spire long term review?
I don't know why I even watch these videos. I'll never pay out that much money for a bike. I feel like I'm allu for life, have had carbon with chips or cracks and it's the worst feeling. I like that transition provide some allu models I think one of their frames would be dream bike for me, or a nice commencal.
so for enduro race should i pick santa cruz nomad or the santa cruz nomad
nice vid
Imagine what it would cost if they replaced carbon with Ti....probably though the roof. Under the category: " you don't' want to know."
NICE ONE
here's an off the wall comment on the price of this machine
I will put small wheel in front and back to normal proportions.
The new Bronson hasn’t been out very long, how is this a “long term” review? What do you consider “long term”?
The first look video was June 8th, they likely had it for a few weeks at that point. So, a whole riding season. That's long term enough.
@@petertyliszczak3411 6 or 7 months is not “long term” man. Let’s just be real about why they really put the words “long term review” in the title….so more people would click on the video. I’m not hating, I’m just calling it for what it is. “Long term” is often considered to be longer than 3 years. The only living thing that would consider 7 months to be “long term” would be a gold fish, and….you I suppose. 👊🏼🤪
@@TheCureThatKillz lol. Please go tell the wide world of internet reviewers from phones to trucks, computers, headphones, bikes, lawnmowers. They've all been inappropriately using the phrase long term and need to stop.
@@TheCureThatKillz what do you consider long term then? People are always going through bikes yearly
@@petertyliszczak3411 no need to get your panties in a bunch dude and jump on the defense. I’m simply stating that 7 months is not classified as a “long term” period of time. You said it yourself, “a whole riding season”. If you went to take a multiple choice test and the question was “which of these time spans is considered “long term” and they have options for 2 - 7 months, 7 months to 2 years or 2 years to 4 years…. you and I both know the majority of people will choose the longest time span option. If you weren’t being a prick and had an ounce of humility within yourself you’d admit that but this is the internet and you’re a gold fish so we know that won’t happen. Do you also think 2+2 could equal 6?? Or is 4 the correct answer?!? LOL #dewey
Great vid, great bike!
seeing as high prices are a talking point, there is no way on earth I can shell out the asking price to replace my S-Works Enduro - They're £10,800 here in Blighty
any chance you could test one, so I know what I'm missing?
I demo'd one a month or so ago thinking I'd be buying one. I was shocked I didn't like it more. Definitely a great bike but it's going to take more to get $6k+ out of this cheapskate.
Just curious what you didn't like about the Bronson you demoed?
So what did you end up getting?
@@radidoc4832 Nada. I demo'd the Bronson, Ripmo, Sentinel and am still looking. Thankful to have my old Bronson around while I search, which makes me think I should stay loyal to SC... I wish I could ride a Pivot but the local Pivot dealer is on my "dead to me" list lol. What are you riding or looking to ride?
@@crjmoto I have a 5 year old Cannondale Trigger 27.5 with old geo and a lefty, that I wanted to upgrade before I get really old and have to get an ebike. I was thinking of Mullet like Bronson or Stumpjumper Evo with Mullet link. Main reason is I have short legs and want to avoid butt buzz from 29 rear. I really need to get some Demos time!
@@radidoc4832 Trigger's are awesome and I loved riding a lefty (Cannondale Prophet). I think the Bronson is worth the demo cost for you. Build quality is great. Rocky Mountain has the option of a Mullet build as well. That one seems to be popular here in Western CO. Good luck!
It’s too bad they raise the prices on all bikes 😢
nice
Bro I am from India how much price MTP cycle
The model they tested would come in at around ₹736247. Even in usd the cost is staggering when some fairly well built full suspension bikes can be had at or above ₹178527.
"MTP cycle"?
Bro cycle India price MTP
As someone who lives where it rains a lot with a ton of mud, I'm having a hard time getting excited about these bikes with that low shock placement... jus' sayin'.
That bike cost a lot of money but one to droll on
Pricing is insane for this! So a bicycle is 25% of the vehicle I drive? LMAO
Carbon frames are just a waste of money really lol
I wish I could jump like that :(
I can. Everytime I go to sleep. Lol.
Alloy bronson … that didnt happen. Its all about expensive for Santa Cruz
Why this is not 27.5+... just why? at least 2.8 tire please. I hope Santa makes this plus when they convert 5010 into mullet :-)
“At least 2.8?” They won’t do that. That’s because 2.8 and above is terrible and would completely ruin the purpose of the 5010.
It would this overpriced whip to ride me home whilst I slept for that ridiculous price.
$5049. Hmmm. How much are kidneys going for on the black market today?
God gave you two kidneys but you only live once! Lol
I just bought slash, fu*k that bronson with exposed cables
The thing about this bike is, it is very good. It really is and it's a fun bike too. But it's very expensive. It's not made in America and it's not even made in Taiwan (my C model isn't anyway) but yet it's still almost a full grand more expensive than a fact 11m stumpjumper. Another nitpick is that the cable routing is very dissapointing. Plus if you get the at $5950 it's quite disappointing to get lowest quality code brakes and a select shock with no low speed adjustment. Other than that the bike is great and the Reverb is supprisingly excellent. But specialized is a much better choice I think.