Santa Cruz Hightower X01 Carbon CC 27+ - 2018

With 135mm of Santa Cruz' proven VPP suspension design and a slacked-out 67-degree head angle, the Hightower shifts the wagon-wheel paradigm toward aggressive trail bike standards. In the case of the 27+ version, this means plus-size 27.5 x 2.8-inch tires for extra float and traction on sketchy terrain. Short chainstays and a spacious cockpit ramp-up the fun when railing technical descents and put you in a powerful position for blazing uphill battles. Adding Boost hub spacing and a clever high/low chip that alters the bike's bottom bracket height allows you to run the stock 27.5+ wheelset or change to 29ers for extra speed and precision. Bike handling characteristics remain optimized no matter which wheel size you choose, thanks to a flip of the chip. The Hightower Carbon CC X01 comes equipped with a Fox 36 150mm fork, Fox Float Performance Elite shock, and SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain for uncompromising performance no matter where you ride. For the Carbon CC frame, Santa Cruz used a slightly higher priced carbon to reduce frame weight.