Santa Cruz Hightower 2022: Orange Mountain Bike Review

by Alex Braham 55 views

Alright guys, let's dive deep into the Santa Cruz Hightower 2022 in that eye-catching orange color! This bike has been making waves in the mountain biking community, and for good reason. We're going to break down everything you need to know about this trail-devouring machine, from its geometry and suspension to its components and overall performance. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or just getting into the sport, understanding what makes the Hightower tick will help you decide if it's the right bike for your needs. So, grab your helmet, and let’s get started!

Overview of the Santa Cruz Hightower

The Santa Cruz Hightower has always been known as a versatile trail bike, and the 2022 model continues that legacy. It's designed to be capable on a wide range of terrain, from flowy singletrack to technical descents. The Hightower occupies a sweet spot in the Santa Cruz lineup, sitting between the shorter-travel Tallboy and the longer-travel Nomad. This balance makes it an excellent choice for riders who want a bike that can handle both climbing and descending with confidence. One of the key features of the Hightower is its VPP (Virtual Pivot Point) suspension system, which provides a smooth and efficient ride. The VPP system is designed to optimize pedaling efficiency while still offering excellent bump absorption. This means you can power up climbs without excessive bobbing, and then confidently tackle rough terrain on the way down. The Hightower also features modern geometry, with a slacker head angle and longer reach, which improves stability and control at high speeds. Plus, with its durable construction and high-quality components, the Hightower is built to withstand the rigors of aggressive trail riding. Whether you're tackling your local trails or embarking on epic backcountry adventures, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a reliable and capable companion.

Key Features and Specs

When we talk about the key features of the Santa Cruz Hightower 2022, we've got to start with that VPP suspension system. This is the heart and soul of the bike, delivering 145mm of rear travel. Up front, you'll typically find a 150mm fork, providing a balanced feel for both climbing and descending. The frame is constructed from Santa Cruz's renowned carbon fiber, known for its stiffness, strength, and lightweight properties. This combination makes for a bike that's both efficient and responsive. Geometry-wise, the Hightower sports a 65-degree head angle, which strikes a great balance between stability and agility. The reach is also generous, providing plenty of room to move around on the bike. Other notable features include internal cable routing, which keeps the cables clean and protected, and a threaded bottom bracket, which is a welcome sight for mechanics. Component-wise, the Hightower is available in a range of builds, from more budget-friendly options to high-end models with top-of-the-line parts. Depending on the build, you can expect to find components from Shimano or SRAM, along with RockShox or Fox suspension. Wheel size is 29 inches, which provides excellent rollover capability and helps maintain momentum on rough terrain. Overall, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a well-rounded package with a focus on performance and durability.

The Vibrant Orange Colorway

Let's talk about that orange colorway! The Santa Cruz Hightower 2022 in orange isn't just a bike; it's a statement. The vibrant hue turns heads on the trail and adds a touch of personality to your ride. But it's not just about looks; the paint job is also durable and resistant to scratches and scuffs. Santa Cruz uses high-quality paint and clear coat to ensure that your bike stays looking fresh for years to come. The orange colorway is available on select models of the Hightower, so you'll need to check with your local dealer or Santa Cruz's website to see which builds offer this option. If you're looking for a bike that stands out from the crowd, the orange Hightower is definitely worth considering. It's a bold and stylish choice that reflects your passion for riding. Plus, let's be honest, who doesn't love a bike that looks as good as it performs? The orange colorway is a testament to Santa Cruz's attention to detail and commitment to creating bikes that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. So, if you want to add a pop of color to your riding experience, the orange Santa Cruz Hightower is the way to go.

Riding Experience and Performance

Alright, let's get to the good stuff: how does the Santa Cruz Hightower 2022 actually ride? In short, it's a blast. The VPP suspension system provides a smooth and controlled ride, soaking up bumps and chatter with ease. Whether you're climbing technical trails or bombing down steep descents, the Hightower inspires confidence. The modern geometry, with its slacker head angle and longer reach, contributes to a stable and predictable feel. This allows you to push your limits and tackle more challenging terrain. The 29-inch wheels roll over obstacles with ease, maintaining momentum and improving efficiency. The Hightower also pedals surprisingly well for a bike with 145mm of rear travel. The VPP suspension system minimizes bobbing, allowing you to put down power without wasting energy. Overall, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a versatile and capable trail bike that excels in a wide range of conditions. It's equally at home on flowy singletrack and technical descents, making it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a weekend warrior, the Hightower will help you ride faster, smoother, and with more confidence.

Component Highlights

Let's break down some of the key components you might find on a Santa Cruz Hightower 2022. The specific components will vary depending on the build level you choose, but here are some of the highlights. For suspension, you'll typically see forks and shocks from RockShox or Fox. These are high-quality components that offer excellent performance and adjustability. Drivetrain options usually include Shimano or SRAM, with a mix of components from their respective lines. Brakes are also typically from Shimano or SRAM, providing reliable stopping power. Wheels are another important consideration, and the Hightower is often spec'd with wheels from brands like Race Face or DT Swiss. These wheels are durable and lightweight, helping to improve overall performance. Tires are also crucial, and you'll typically find tires from Maxxis or similar brands, designed for a balance of grip and rolling resistance. Other notable components include dropper posts, which are essential for modern trail riding, and comfortable saddles. Overall, the Santa Cruz Hightower is equipped with high-quality components that are designed to perform well and last long. The specific components will depend on your budget and riding style, but you can rest assured that you're getting a bike that's built to withstand the rigors of aggressive trail riding.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty with the pros and cons of the Santa Cruz Hightower 2022.

Pros:

  • Versatile: The Hightower is capable on a wide range of terrain, making it a great all-around trail bike.
  • Efficient pedaling: The VPP suspension system minimizes bobbing, allowing you to climb efficiently.
  • Stable descending: The modern geometry provides a stable and confident feel on descents.
  • High-quality components: The Hightower is equipped with durable and reliable components.
  • Attractive aesthetics: The orange colorway (and other options) looks great on the trail.

Cons:

  • Price: The Hightower is a premium bike, so it can be expensive.
  • Not the lightest: While the carbon frame is lightweight, the Hightower isn't the lightest bike in its class.
  • Can be overkill for mellow trails: If you primarily ride smooth, flowy trails, the Hightower might be more bike than you need.

Overall, the pros of the Santa Cruz Hightower far outweigh the cons. It's a versatile, capable, and fun-to-ride trail bike that's well worth the investment if you're a serious mountain biker.

Who is the Hightower For?

So, who is the Santa Cruz Hightower 2022 really for? This is a crucial question to ask before dropping your hard-earned cash. The Hightower shines as a versatile trail bike, making it an excellent choice for riders who tackle a variety of terrain. If you enjoy both climbing and descending, and you're looking for a bike that can handle everything from flowy singletrack to technical trails, the Hightower is a great fit. It's also a good option for riders who want a bike that's efficient enough for all-day adventures, but still capable enough for aggressive riding. The Hightower isn't necessarily the best choice for riders who primarily ride smooth, flat trails, as it might be overkill. Nor is it the ideal bike for dedicated downhill racers, who would likely prefer something with more travel. However, for the vast majority of trail riders, the Hightower offers a perfect balance of performance, versatility, and fun. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or an intermediate rider looking to improve your skills, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a bike that will inspire confidence and help you take your riding to the next level.

Final Thoughts: Is the Hightower Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the Santa Cruz Hightower 2022 worth the investment? Absolutely! If you're looking for a versatile, high-performance trail bike that can handle a wide range of terrain, the Hightower is an excellent choice. It's not the cheapest bike on the market, but you're getting a lot for your money. The VPP suspension system provides a smooth and efficient ride, the modern geometry inspires confidence, and the high-quality components are built to last. Plus, that orange colorway is just plain awesome! Of course, the Hightower isn't the perfect bike for everyone. If you primarily ride smooth, flat trails, you might be better off with something lighter and more efficient. But if you're a serious mountain biker who enjoys tackling challenging terrain, the Santa Cruz Hightower is a bike that will help you ride faster, smoother, and with more confidence. So, if you're in the market for a new trail bike, be sure to check out the Santa Cruz Hightower. You won't be disappointed!