Santa Cruz Hightower XX1 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 XX1 comes equipped with a Fox 36 150mm fork, Fox Float Factory DPS Kashima 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.