Finished: Santa Cruz Bicycles Ask Us Anything

Apr 3, 2018
by Pinkbike Staff  

Santa Cruz Bicycles Danny MacAskill Prototype Frame
ASK US ANYTHING
Santa Cruz Bicycles
With Joe Graney, Nic McCrae, Nick Anderson and Jack Russell


Update from Santa Cruz Bicycles, 12:20pm PST: Thanks for all the questions guys, sorry we weren't able to get to all of them. We've got to go break some frames now but we'll try to stop by again later to follow up on a few more.


Earlier today, Santa Cruz released a video bike check with Danny Mac's brand new carbon trials bike and announced that they've taken the in-house composites lab at their California office, initially set up for their wheels program, to the next level. The custom frame for Danny Mac was first up, but you can bet they didn't create a new facility just for a one-off trials frame.

It's been a busy spring for the brand, having also released two new XC bikes: the Blur and the Highball.

We wanted to know more about their new carbon manufacturing capabilities and how they're influencing their overall manufacturing process, so we thought it would be a perfect opportunity for you to ask Joe Graney, Nic McCrae, Nick Anderson and Jack Russell your questions.


photo

Joe Graney CEO and Former Head Engineer
Formerly Santa Cruz’s head engineer, and author of Joe’s Corner (link), Joe swapped CAD for spreadsheets in his new role as CEO, and still approved this whole project for some reason.
Nic McRae

Nic McCrae Composites Engineer
Nic McCrae: Nic is Santa Cruz's resident Québécois, a composites expert, and the mad scientist lurking in the R&D lab. Oh, and he did all of the layup and manufacturing design on Danny's bike.


Nick Anderson

Nick Anderson Head Engineer
Nick's the Engineering Manager, and probably knows more about VPP suspension than anyone, but that was pretty useless for the trials bike. Fortunately, he knows a lot about frame design, too, and is responsible for some of the most iconic frame designs in Santa Cruz's history (including this one).
photo

Jack Russell Industrial Designer
As the Industrial Designer at Santa Cruz, Jack is in charge of making sure the bikes look as cool as possible, a real challenge on bike with tiny wheels and a 73.50° head tube angle.

Santa Cruz Bicycles Danny MacAskill Prototype Frame

How ‘Ask Us Anything' Works:

Starting at 10:00 AM PDT/6:00 PM BST on April 3rd you can type your questions for Santa Cruz into the comment box below this article and the guys will have a crack at answering them. Sometimes your answer will pop up in a few seconds; others may take a few minutes while Joe Graney, Nic McCrae, Nick Anderson and Jack Russell work their way through questions that are popping up. Everyone who posts a question, large or small, will be taken seriously.

To make this go as smoothly as possible, try to follow these guidelines:

• Keep your questions relevant
• Stay focused and to keep your questions on one topic if possible. You can always ask about another item later
• Try to keep your questions to about 100 words
• Ask Us Anything is a service to PB readers who are seeking helpful information, not a forum to broadcast opinions or grievances. If you do have an issue that you want to ask about, no worries, just keep your complaints relevant and in the context of a question so that it can be addressed in a productive manner
• Use propping to acknowledge good (or not so good) questions and bump them up or down to where they belong

Other time zones:
• 1:00 PM EST (New York)
• 6:00 PM BST (London)
• 7:00 PM CET (Paris)
• 7:00 PM SAST (Cape Town)
• 3:00 AM AEST (Sydney, Australia)

Santa Cruz Bicycles Danny MacAskill Prototype Frame

MENTIONS: @santacruzbicycles


Posted In:
Industry News Ask Us Anything Santa Cruz Bicycles


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584 Comments
  • 162 1
 Name one feature of another brand that you're a tiny bit envious of that you didn't come up with yourself.
  • 92 2
 Two things: The adjustable chainstay length that Norco does, and Specialized's SWAT system—the hatch is cool, but the entire suite of accessories really sets it apart.
NA
  • 7 2
 @santacruzbicycles: Any reason why you guys don't go down the path of varying chainstay length by frame size? Cost/production thing or is it geometry related?
  • 3 0
 @santacruzbicycles: the hatch is the best!!, Hope you include it if is not patented yet
  • 7 5
 @Lashidalgo: Do you ever get that not Soo fresh feeling,,,,, you know down there?
  • 4 0
 @gramboh: Definitely not a cost/production thing—geometry and packaging (linkage, shock, etc.) related.
  • 2 1
 Lol... I love how the first two questions ended up referencing SWAT. Reminds me of a comment from 2014 that I saw recently:
+1 Jhou (Mar 10, 2014 at 23:50)

Better than that stupid Swat idea from Specialized. They make awesome bikes, but that has to be one of the most retarded idea ever!

How times change... Not too long ago it seemed that if it wasn't an aluminum 26er, it wasn't a true bike.
  • 7 0
 @santacruzbicycles: thanks for the honest reply!
  • 3 4
 I still stand by my comment. I prefer riding with my fanny pack and like my water bottles under the seattube. Thanks!
  • 3 0
 Hahahaha fanny rider's are on the come up. Getting female's is on the come down.
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles: are you planning to make significant changes to the Hightower LT v2? If so can you tell me anything about them? Thanks
  • 78 1
 What happened to Logan Peat?
  • 6 1
 Yeah man this is weird AF. He is one of the most talented guy out there and they just drop him or what ?
  • 9 0
 @Smilicito: business. is what happened. just like how kawi didnt keep ricky forever and yamaha didnt keep mcgrath forever.
  • 3 0
 @74tenomresc: Yea, but Trek did...Smile Lucky guy that Brandon Semenuk Smile Smile Smile
  • 26 1
 When Logan started he was modifying existing bikes for which we could supply an almost unlimited amount. As his needs evolved into needing custom bikes we just couldn’t keep up with replacing those broken custom parts on top of making custom parts for Danny. Logan has been with us many years and it sucked to have to make a decision... but sometimes you have to make tough decisions
  • 10 7
 @joegraney:

In short, Danny took his budget and cos he does more youtube promo stuff you made the wise choice. Can’t blame you.
  • 4 1
 @cunning-linguist: Yeah but this is actually pretty sad. Cuz Logan Peat was the only one that ride top level slopestyle contests for Santa Cruz like Whistler Joyride slopestyle etc. Sad....
  • 4 0
 @Smilicito: There was cats in the past that rode SC for slope and free ride events. End of an era I guess.
  • 70 5
 I wish more brands had storage on their frames like Specialized, is there a reason SC (and other brands) hasn’t embraced this? It seems like a great idea.

Thanks for the sick bikes!
Love my N4.
  • 7 1
 By on their frames, I mean in their frames, the SWAT door Smile
  • 35 38
 @Rabbuit: I guess it's because a big hole in a tube radically decreases stiffness and rigidity, so they'd have to add a bunch of material to get to the same properties as the standard one. Also, I'd have a light backpack over 500g more weight in the frame every day.
  • 21 22
 @Highclimber: Wow. Cool assumption.
  • 31 2
 @b0cephus: @b0cephus: Not really a big assumption to say a hole is a stress concentration.
  • 8 2
 @Rabbuit: There's a hole in the steer tube. Get a OneUp EDC unit and problem solved.
  • 14 23
flag RedRedRe (Apr 3, 2018 at 9:04) (Below Threshold)
 @ Rabbuit ...
Because it rattles like hell?
Becuase it makes the frame weaker?
Because "better carry the weight on the body (i.e. backpack) than on the bike"?
Because it is one more thing to break?
Because lots of people have more than one bike but only one tool kit?

All the EWS and XCO pros do not use it at all (except for interviews photoshoots).
  • 61 5
 Is there a Pinion equipped bike anywhere in the future for SC.
  • 51 0
 Do you guys find the VPP linkage limiting at all, and how much have you experimented on using other designs? Also, what was the reason for ditching APP?
  • 15 1
 All suspension systems have their strengths and weaknesses. We've looked at other platforms and keep coming back to VPP. The lower link driven shock that we use on the V10 and Nomad gives a very linear rate with excellent small bump, mid stroke support, and bottom out resistance. The upperlink driven shock that we do on other trail bikes like the Tallboy gives more pedal platform which makes for a very efficient pedaling bike. We have two platforms now which we can use depending on the characteristics we most want. VPP also gives us independent control of anti-squat and shock rate which is one of the drawbacks of other designs. APP in the end wound up being fairly heavy while not offering any advantages. NA
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Seems like price was a bit of an advantage for the consumer... I love my Nickel, great bike all around.
  • 1 15
flag kleinblake (Apr 3, 2018 at 10:54) (Below Threshold)
 @santacruzbicycles: i think you mean to say linear progression, as the curve has a constant slope, but is very progressive
  • 51 1
 Can you bring back the Blur 4X?
  • 6 0
 This!!!
  • 3 1
 Or at least make some more lower links so existing owners can keep their bikes running when the pivot axle holes ovalize... Please?!?!?
  • 6 0
 I second this.
  • 10 0
 Nomad 1 and Blur 4X were trend setters. Most Enduro and Trail bikes of today have genes of these two in their blood. I have so many good memories of Nomad 1. That was a hell of a bike.
  • 2 0
 Blur 4x, longest I ever kept a frame
  • 1 0
 I feel like the 5010 is as close as we'll get from SC, I'll keep my fingers crossed though!
  • 1 0
 I third this.
  • 2 0
 @gtrguy: i wonder if it would be hard for a machinist to machine that part
  • 2 0
 @nfa2005: Actually Santa Cruz were kind enough to send me the engineering drawing for the lower link. Luckily a buddy of mine works for an aerospace company and the machine shop there is working on one for me right now. I asked if they could make me one from titanium but since it's a freebie the answer was "don't push your luck" LOL
  • 1 0
 @gtrguy: don't push your luck lol imagine a ti one tho
  • 2 0
 @nfa2005: yeah I know when to shut up and accept a favor without pushing the issue lol

Turns out the place where he works doesn't deal with titanium billet, just the sheet metal form. Lots of aluminum billet though apparently.
  • 52 4
 how much weed do ratboy/josh lewis smoke?
  • 5 1
 Lol my favorite question so far!
  • 11 0
 not enough.
  • 48 4
 What do you do differently in terms of R&D and engineering on your bikes to warrant a higher price point?
  • 12 1
 Warranty and support
  • 6 2
 The question would be better stated as "What is different about your bikes that makes people willing to pay so much for them?". Their bikes are only expensive because people are willing to pay it.
  • 2 1
 @poozank: marketing
  • 36 0
 Do you offer any year long placements for engineering students?

Also, do you think tapered roller bearings would be more suitable for the lower bearing in a headset?
  • 11 3
 Yes, tapered roller bearings are much better for the lower headset loads. Hire this guy!
  • 1 0
 But that may result in yet another standard, not a bad idea tho
  • 41 7
 When will we see a proper new Hightower LT as opposed to a new back end bolted on the OG we have now?
  • 4 0
 ^THIS
  • 5 0
 ^this, ^that
  • 5 0
 Must sell current stock as completely as possible before announcing.. Sorry man, just the way it goes..
  • 32 0
 Are you going to use the N4 VPP system in any other bike? It's a good idea to use it in the trail bikes, or it's just for long travel bikes?
  • 19 3
 A Hightower LT with the new nomad linkage would be nice?
  • 2 1
 Agreed!
  • 12 1
 Nomad 29 would be hard for me to ignore. I just bought a Wreckoning because the Hightower LT wasn’t enough. The demand for huge 29’s is there.
  • 17 0
 The lower link driven shock on the Nomad 4 (N4) has many advantages. It provides excellent small bump, great mid stroke support, and lots of bottom out resistance. We will continue to use this on newer trail bikes where bump performance is the priority. Shorter travel bikes that require more pedal platform will continue to have upperlink driven shocks.
NA
  • 35 3
 How much do you spend every year to fund and run the SC Syndicate?
  • 40 0
 We have to respect the confidentiality of each rider’s contract, so we aren’t ever at liberty to give a total cost. But from an operating perspective it’s probably a lot less than you'd think. Kathy runs a really tight ship, our pits are designed for the needs of the riders, not an ego, so is pretty modest and the team has always been respectful of travel budgets. If you’ve ever seen Peaty or Minnaar travel in economy you’d have even more respect for them than you might have now. It’s funny because people think we’re quite high rollers from the outside looking in. But that’s just the champers, which is only drunk if it’s coming for free from the UCI. Oh yeah, and maybe the occasional cigar, but you can blame Roskopp for that.
  • 5 0
 @joegraney: I feel like it should me more than i expect- they're the best riders in the world!
  • 1 12
flag PauRexs FL (Apr 3, 2018 at 14:58) (Below Threshold)
 I heard some years ago was 1 bilion budget for all, so 1 AG of todays...
  • 2 0
 @joegraney: Thanks for your honest reply. Compared to other big teams, the Syndicate pits does look humble indeed and more “down-to-earth”. Goodluck on future seasons
  • 7 0
 @PauRexs: There is no way in hell that any bike brand has or maybe ever will have 1 billion dollars to use for a racing team, or even a whole global marketing budget.
  • 2 3
 @Clarkeh: ok soorry so may I get confused with term milion/ bilion in english vs latin...
So 1.000.000 $,
aron alone gets paid 900.000 by it right? ( but I assume then he pays for the team budged)
  • 1 4
 @Clarkeh: you only have to sell 100 SC or 200 YT to dentist.
  • 4 0
 www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_aLESDql1U
  • 30 0
 What is the most frustrating design constraint that you just can’t get around when developing a new bike/frame?
  • 9 0
 Also, what was the most frustrating design constraint that SC, or the industry as a whole, has worked through and is no longer an issue?
  • 13 1
 Bottle cage?
  • 8 1
 @aljoburr: Internal water bag in the frame?
  • 3 2
 @dthomp325: You want to put your frame in the dishwasher to clean it?
Would be easyer just to be able to fit a water bottle
  • 2 0
 @aljoburr: it would obviously need to be removable.
  • 27 1
 Trek, Specialized, Scott, Cannondale.... They all design custom shocks in collaboration with Fox and Ohlins. Have you ever thought about developing a custom shock that works really well with the VPP system?
  • 26 3
 Ha, that's a backdoor diss if ever I saw one.
  • 21 8
 those brands all do "smart shock but dumb frame" Santa Cruz does "smart frame with a dumb shock"
  • 30 0
 @santacruzbicycles : Love all the answers. Joe Graney you're a hero. Please don't ever use a custom shock on any of your bikes.
  • 90 0
 We work closely with Fox and Rock Shox to develop custom shock tunes for all our bikes. For the same reasons that we stick with threaded BBs, and support small parts for all models for at least 10 years, we try to steer clear of things that may not be available long term so that a customer can always find a shock to put on their bike.
  • 9 3
 @santacruzbicycles: had to go back and double check, for some reason I read you “support small pants for all models”
  • 5 1
 @santacruzbicycles: good on you for this! Proprietary suspension parts help no one in the end. My friend has a brand spankin new bike with a proprietary coilshock that comes stock with a puny spring. Only rockshox offers the springs but they are completely unavailable atm. So brand new bike just sitting there for two months, unridden. I've always steered clear of proprietary suspension bikes and always will.
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Speaking of, what's the correct Rockshox tune for a 5010 V2 C? Big Grin
  • 1 0
 @maxlombardy: Finally a Santa Cruz product I might own.
  • 1 0
 @danielgrafik: Pretty sure it is a Low/Low tune
  • 1 2
 @skemp57: BOOM! someone understands!!
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: amen.
  • 29 1
 What's your biggest screw up/failure to date?
  • 34 1
 Stopping production of the Blur 4X lol
  • 30 3
 What happens to scrap carbon material that is left over from production / test mules?
  • 57 0
 Layup in Asia is optimized to utilize over 95% of the prepreg produced on the production line. However, whatever is left at the end of the day is chopped and repurposed as randomly-oriented carbon mats, which are then used to make small parts and accessories (bottle cages, derailleur bits, etc.).
NM
  • 15 0
 @santacruzbicycles: this is genuinely good to know. Thumbs up.
  • 11 6
 @santacruzbicycles: That was half the answer. What about frames that don't pass inspection, test mules, etc? Stuff that has already been cured? And thanks for answering, guys!
  • 37 15
 @Poulsbojohnny: they are being reused to make wind power plants, powering Prius tractors spraying good intentions on organic coffee of vegan movement Clean Gaya, responsibility and dick dicing for feminine future of environment
  • 5 3
 @WAKIdesigns: good intentions! Hahahahaha! You crack me up!!!

Long live Waki!!! :-)

More of your art please sir, it’s inspirational!
  • 18 10
 Don’t get me started... I have a really bad apetite for recreational environmentalists recently... I’d love to feed them to Polar Bears.
  • 4 0
 @WAKIdesigns: aren’t polar bears vegan?

Oh yes, that’s right. NORMAL animals don’t give a f*ck!! Lol

Check the honey badger. He ma man! :-F
  • 1 0
 @cunning-linguist: yes but they are on plant based diet. And when being eaten alive they don't scream. They keep on tweeting. Nah, they'd get off the high moral horse and let the bear eat it.
  • 26 2
 What standards do you see changing in the near future. Can you think of anything that would actually make a difference.
  • 22 1
 Will you please consider making a larger downtube protector for the carbon frames? On all 3 of the SC bikes I've owned, I needed to use mastic tape to extend the coverage. After the 1st ride on one of my bikes I got a sizeable chip in the downtube from a rock strike. Please consider making the molded cover larger.

That is all,

Thanks.
  • 2 0
 Agreed, just acquired a nice one the other day.
  • 17 0
 In your opinion, would a increase in collaboration on defining new standards between major bike manufacturers be desirable? Should there be (or is there) an industry group that recommend moving to certain promising new developments, and moving away from outdated ones.
  • 18 1
 What are the options for 'getting your foot in the door' at a market leading bike company like yourselves? I currently study mechanical engineering at university but I understand that doesn't necessarily lead in to the bike industry.

Is there a way to work a way up or any advice? It's definitely something I'd like to do in the future.

Thanks.
  • 1 0
 intern or work placement?
  • 9 0
 We have a small core team that designs and develops our new products and are always looking for talented designers and engineers. Showing a broad cross section of skills, the ability to work well with a team, as well as adaptability when faced with new challenges are super important.
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles:
Thanks for the reply, certainly very helpful. Makes it seem feasible for us mere mortals to work somewhere so prestigious one day.
  • 22 1
 Why can’t you make your seat tube angles steeper?
  • 10 1
 and your top tubes longer
  • 1 0
 Count me in on the steeper seat tube angles too!
  • 22 2
 Why is there no honeycomb sandwich structure in mtb frames?
  • 14 17
 Because cloth layup on bikes uses a technology that has been around since the 50s and is very cheap to implement. Honeycomb structure would be very expensive to implement and would cut into the lucrative bottom line that you get by laying your carbon up in China and marking your frames up an extra 30%
  • 26 0
 We actually do use sandwich structures in some key areas of Danny's frame, i.e. at the drive-side CS, but we used a foam core called RohaCell. Honeycomb structures are great for flat panels and simple shapes such as aircraft floors. They aren't great with rock strikes and impacts though because of voids in the core structure. We don't use those in bike frames, but a foam core such as Rohacell will be integrated in future production since we tested it with great results on Danny's bike. NM
  • 1 2
 @santacruzbicycles: But its ok to use honeycomb for rotor blades?
classroom.materials.ac.uk/images/heli-fig3.jpg
  • 1 0
 @budjoni: a rotor blade is developed with vastly different load cases than bike frames or components. In your specific image, I suspect thick sheets over a very fine mesh honeycomb, which can definitely work well for that application. The beauty with composites is that there are endless combinations of processes and materials that can solve an engineering problem
  • 15 0
 What's the business rationale for licensing VPP to Intense? Do you get more out of the licensing agreement than you lose in sales to Intense as a competitor?
  • 2 0
 This is a great question that I would really like to understand! Seems like the designs are now diverging and I wonder if there is a behind the scenes handshake?
  • 1 1
 Intense no longer use VPP, They now use JSTuned
  • 3 1
 @aushred: not exactly true. JSTuned is VPP, but the patent for VPP ran out so Intense can call it whatever they want and no longer have to pay a licensing fee.
  • 16 1
 Will the Bronson and 5010 be considered for the same suspension configuration that now comes on the new nomad?
  • 20 4
 Why are your frames made in China?
  • 22 8
 Relaxed environmental controls and low cost. Thought that was an obvious thing.
  • 8 2
 Big margins
  • 14 1
 There are no domestic options for us to fabricate frames that are viable right now. We are partners in our carbon factory which gives us the ability to see and control how employees are treated and environmental controls are handled. JG
  • 14 3
 @santacruzbicycles: Why not manufacture in Taiwan ( a democracy) where taxes don't go to a one party state that abuses human rights. I also suspect environmental standards are higher there.
  • 3 1
 @maddievanpatten: our Chinese facility is partnered with and managed by Taiwanese people. The environmental restrictions on Taiwanese owned facilities in China are stricter than on nationals. We don't make carbon in Taiwan because there are not viable options there for us. Very few options.
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Have you checked out TokaiCarbon ?
  • 1 0
 @joegraney: so you have gone with less strictly environmental control, on purpose?
  • 1 0
 @joegraney: never mind that last comment. I misread.
  • 11 0
 What's the future of carbon frame manufacture for SC? Automotive and aerospace already use advanced methods like resin transfer, automated taping, 3d preforms, which at least seem like they may bring down costs compared to old skool hand layup.
  • 2 0
 Implementating something like what Robot bike / Renishaw do would be an interesting step forward.
  • 4 0
 We have been putting lots of materials and technologies that trickled down from the aerospace and automotive industries to the test in our Carbon Lab. Our use of the triaxial QISO Carbon Braid is a good example of it. - NM
  • 11 0
 Hi There!

In this video previously featured on Pinkbike (www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5eMMf11uhM) stress tests are performed on carbon frames vs aluminium, obstensibly to test which is stronger.

I have a question for Joe, or anyone else, that I've had in my mind since watching this video nearly six years ago.

In the video during the "case" test, the aluminium frame buckles at a peak load of 1,464lbs (about 1:06 vid time), the carbon frame fails at a peak load of 2,050lbs (about 2:13 vid time).

However, in the run up to failure some sickening cracking noises can be heard on the carbon frame from about 800lbs onwards. Would this frame still be considered safe to ride if the test were stopped before failure?
  • 20 1
 Hard to give a yes or no answer to this one, but I'd ride it. One could verify by releasing the non-destructive load and measuring the modulus of the frame during a second loading. If "real damage" was done, it would be less stiff on the second load instance. The cracking noises, while sounding scary, are not indicative of it weakening - you saw how strong it was...
-JG
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Would this just be fibre pull out occurring? I need to rewatch the video!
  • 9 0
 @santacruzbicycles: I think you will find that the initial pinging sounds are the less compiled fibers delaminating in the compression side of the matrix. These sound like minimal issues, and in general they are, unless its happening often....

Not sure if you have ever laid up frames with optical load sensors laminated in, but this would give a very good indication of the localized stresses in real world use.
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Thanks for the answer!
  • 3 0
 @santacruzbicycles:
Why are there no new videos of testing frames? I loved the video and it made me trust more in Santa Cruz frames. Especially that you made these tests public.
  • 4 0
 @emptybox: We haven't done any frame videos in a bit, but we did a video showing the spoke pull-through test on Reserve rims, as well as Danny's real-world test: www.santacruzbicycles.com/reserve-wheels. We'll definitely keep making videos as the opportunities arise!
  • 5 3
 It's crazy that the frames are holding under these circumstances, yet Minaar's bike hits a wooden stake and splits in half.
  • 5 0
 @bforwil: that's the difference between lab tests and real world. You can't simulate everything...

As for ignoring the cracking sounds during the testing... Hm. that usually indicates that the resin is letting go somewhere. Could be because of too much wetting in the pre-preg material, or it could be genuine delamination of the layup.Either way, you aren't likely to put that stress on your frame under normal riding conditions. Big Grin
  • 5 0
 @bforwil: I think everyone REALLY underestimates how much force is put into a frame when a bike flys through the air into a relatively stiff object. Frames are also just simply not designed to take massive side impacts. They are made to take very large impacts to the two wheels.
  • 1 4
 @emptybox: I refer you to Greg Minaar in VDS last year.
  • 2 0
 @bforwil: it's not a freakin tank man, the bike is not designed to withstand a side impact...
  • 12 0
 Are there any plans to offer a burlier build for the 5010?..something similar to Yeti's SB5 Lunch Ride or the 2018 Transition Scout build.
  • 2 0
 Great question. I was thinking the same
  • 4 0
 A sort of 50:01 Ratboy/Loose edition
  • 1 0
 If you look at the geo of the current 5010, putting a larger fork on it essentially makes it into a bronson. the numbers are similar enough that you might as well buy a bronson and put a 200x50 shock on the rear so you have 150/160mm up front and 130 rear travel. I ran this set up and it is super fun.
  • 15 3
 How vigorous is the testing on your carbon wheels compared to other manufacturers like ENVE? Did the wheels really survive that Danny Mac video?
  • 1 0
 Yes they did.
(random guy named)
Mike
  • 7 0
 Yes, they did survive the Wee Day Out video, which was quite frankly a surprise. We wanted to develop our own line of rims because we had a few ideas that we thought could offer a real performance advantage. We spent a lot of time figuring out what kind of impacts mountain bike wheels see (very different from industry-standard road rim impacts), and built new test machines in Santa Cruz to optimize for this. After a bunch of testing and revisions, we established a new rim manufacturing line in Asia that helped us create a product in which we were confident enough to offer a lifetime warranty.
NM
  • 17 5
 Why does the entry level Hightower at £4000 come
With a revelation? There is no benefit in buying Santa Cruz over orbea,YT etc etc.
  • 3 1
 People will pay for a certain brand just because of its reputation. That is the benefit over orbea, yt, etc. it’s silly that brand recognition can warrant higher price margins but it’s about understanding the psychology of the customer.
  • 3 2
 buy a frameset and build your own bike, for me prebuilds make no sense most of the time
  • 2 0
 @Lastpikd: Not understanding, manipulating. Read a book called "Spin Selling".
  • 7 3
 The benefit is that you can buy a Santa Cruz at a shop that will service your bike for free for a while, and then for the years to come. On their end, they stand behind their bikes with a great warranty and as they said in a previous comment, provide small parts for frames for a decade. YT has a limited 5 year warranty, all done online by you. With a Santa Cruz, you bring it to the nearest dealership and they take care of it.

If you’re looking for the cheapest possible frame to hang some nice parts off of, there’s better options out there. Used, consumer direct, year end models, etc. I’ve used all of them before. At this point though, I’m pretty sure that if I’d started out by shelling out $$$ at my local shop to get a bike from them in the first place (instead of going through pinkbike) and go through the year of free service they provide, I would have had a much better running bike to ride on and more mechanical skill to boot. Getting a YT, canyon, etc which might come with a toolkit and having them leave it mostly up to you and YouTube to wrench on it is the drawback of cutting out the middleman here.

There’s obviously not “no benefit” or else everyone would buy the cheapest, best specced YT they could get their hands on and that’d be the end of it.
  • 2 1
 @parkourfan:
free service is only true if there is actually a spot close to you
  • 5 0
 Just look closer at a bare SC carbon frame vs. a YT carbon frame. You'll get the price difference (at least parts of it). It's a wrong assumption that YT frames are cheaper and comparable to high end brands...
  • 11 0
 When looking at suspension design, do you use custom in house kinematics software or spreadsheets/mathematical code or readily available resources like Bike Checker’s ‘Linkage’ software?
  • 8 0
 Also what CAD programs do the engineers at SC use when designing bikes and components?
  • 8 0
 All of our design work is done in Creo. We use some of the simulation tools in the software to allow us to map leverage rate, anti squat, and chain growth. We can output this into a spreadsheet where we can view it more easily. We also use Linkage as a way to look at competitors' frames.
  • 9 0
 I ride a XXL V10. Can I have one of Minaar's extra swingarms and links, that you have "just layin' around"? JK (sort of). Will there be a way for me to do a parts swap, to upgrade the V10 to 29, w/out buying a whole new bike, since it's nearly impossible to sell a XXL?
Thanks guys! You build the radest s**t!!!
  • 7 0
 Would just like to note the significant environmental benefits if companies extended frame lives like this. No pressure Wink
  • 12 0
 What would you recomend on the cheese front? I'm all about stilton at the moment but fear I'm blinkered on current trends
  • 14 0
 Raclette for two at La Rotonde in Morzine, France: www.santacruzbicycles.com/en-US/file/scbpbcheesenjpg
  • 8 0
 all cheese related questions go to the staff at our Morzine, France office
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Mmmmmmmm... raclette
  • 12 0
 Is there any interest in doing a video series following Rat and Loosedog through the enduro series?
  • 8 0
 Can we see the v10 + Nomad N4 progressive leverage ratio suspension used on any bikes in the future? The fully progressive feel of these bikes is noticeable compared to the blur through hightower that are regressive - progressive. The positive anti-squat values combined with a more progressive suspension could make for some seriously playful shorter travel rigs!
  • 11 1
 What happened with HANS HEIM?

we've read his interview here on PB and his words on being forced to leave the conpany, it'd be interesting to hear SC's point of view.
  • 15 0
 I worked at Santa Cruz with Hans and Rob during the time. It was a lack of agreement between business partners - which happens. Divorce isn't fun for anyone
  • 11 1
 Will there be an Alloy Hightower Lt in the near future? And is there a MK3 Bronson in the pipeline?
  • 2 5
 Will there be a proper hightower LT rather than a cobbled together one using bits they found?
  • 5 0
 Maybe with a steeper seat tube angle too
  • 10 1
 How do you guys decide on adequate strength levels for a frame? E.g. how much percentage difference in impact strength is there between the 5010 and a V10, for example?
  • 3 0
 Somewhat of a follow-up question for SC:
- Regarding the design of the CFRP lay up of a rim, what are the specific load cases you design for?
- What safety factors are used?
I realize that these questions probably will go unanswered since they are more or less company secrets, but I'd thought it would be fun to ask in order to compare to other industries.
  • 1 3
 Judging from Minaar at VDS or a proper answer?
  • 11 0
 If you could own ONLY ONE Santa Cruz mountain bike, what would it be?
  • 11 0
 Best burrito in Santa Cruz?
  • 6 2
 Honestly, you have to drive to Watsonville for the real deal.
  • 4 1
 Los Pericos on any weekday
  • 9 1
 Los Pericos, hands down
  • 2 0
 @Soilsledding: So True. Watson por Vida
  • 8 1
 There's some disagreement happening here!
Possible answers from the room include:
Taqueria Santa Cruz; La Cabana's California Burrito; No good burritos in Santa Cruz; Moreno's; Los Pericos; Salsa's.
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Except for Morenos' - all Westsiders? Is SC still E/S vs W/S? I left in 1986.
  • 2 0
 @endlessblockades: Salsa's is east side too! We're in the old Wrigley building now, so lunch-run proximity wins hearts.
  • 2 1
 @santacruzbicycles: I go to the bay area for work every year or so and always make it out to Santa Cruz because the drive from Silicon Valley is so beautiful. But I never have found a really good restaurant in SC. Whats a good $30-40 meal in SC?
And I wont ask you about coffee because youve got one of the best roasters in the country in your old building. Verve is great
  • 2 1
 @santacruzbicycles: Forgot about Salsa's!
  • 2 2
 El Chipotle (NO, not "chipotle") over by soquel high school is pretty dank
  • 1 0
 Thanks for the advice. I spend a few days a summer in Santa Cruz when I'm in the states, riding trails, geeking on bikes, and putting adulting on hold. Been to a few of these.
  • 10 0
 Not a Question: Just THANKS for being a brand that actively supports trail development!
  • 7 1
 Where is the best pathway to gain experience for engineering in the bike industry beyond just a university/collage degree?

As a engineering student in Australia, with a relatively small industry for bicycle specific production/design, internships are not exactly easy to come by.

Awesome to see so much R&D into composite materials.
  • 10 0
 build a bike in your garage. take pictures. don't get hurt Smile
  • 8 0
 Hey Jack Russell, curious if you had any input on the Tennis ball yellow prototype? Seems to match your shoes nicely.

PS- Do you still have the man-bun?
  • 5 0
 Jack's man-bun is strong right now.
  • 6 0
 Can you bring back the heckler for at least a limited run? I am highly dissapointed it was cancelled with no final edition...

It's I have ridden and owned your vpp and it does preform better, but I love the feeling of a single pivot and years of no nonsense riding!
  • 1 0
 I just re-tired my 3rd gen Bullit #MrMcQueen at the end of last season. It would be so rad to have an updated geo and frameset!
  • 2 0
 We rode VPP bikes through many seasons of PNWet riding and it's bullet proof from a maintenance standpoint. You really don't gain anything from a single pivot in that department. Especially with free bearings for life from SC.
  • 1 0
 @vikb: I gained an extra $1500 when I bought a Heckler instead of a Bronson. The VPP does perform better but as an above average rider I still can't push my Heckler past the limits. Plus, replacing one set of bearings is much easier than messing around with all those pivots, regardless of how free they are. Not sure what I'll do when my Heckler expires but l think it has a few more good years left in it.
  • 7 0
 when designing a carbon component; how much of the stress analysis is done in computers vs building prototypes and breaking them? is it just like a starting point or do you rely on FEA more heavily?
  • 13 0
 We use FEA to evaluate the potential of new designs, but since hand layup is a big part of composites manufacturing, we also rely on field and lab testing to confirm FEA results and control manufacturing variability. NM
  • 6 0
 @santacruzbicycles: What FEA software do you use and how do you model it's anisotropic properties?
  • 2 0
 a@jamesplum: Autodesk Nastran In-CAD lets you specify number of layers and XYZ properties for each one when selecting materials.

I am curious about what software SC uses though
  • 1 0
 @pedrosalas7: down below it sounds like they use Creo.
  • 4 0
 @jamesplum: We mostly use Creo's FEA in-CAD suite, but we also used Hyperworks (Opti-Struct mostly) in a few recent projects.
  • 6 0
 I'm dead-fish drunk most days and in need of a shower and a shave. Whats the best way to get a job with SC, and when do you see me taking over as CEO? I'd forward my resume, but I don't have one. As for college, I lived under a bridge near one for a year so I'm pretty qualified.
  • 9 0
 How do you guys decide on the colorways for each year?
  • 130 0
 LSD, a family-share size bag of skittles, and the latest Martha Stewart Living.
  • 4 4
 I guess someone is paid to look at stuff like this
www.pantone.com/fashion-color-trend-report-new-york-spring-2018
and decides how to put it on a bike, makes a nice presentation, everyone nods approvingly.
For me this is the biggest bit of BS in the whole marketing / trend thing.
  • 2 0
 @Braindrain: Ha to true I work in the hair industry and at the same time that blue and magenta nomad came out it was on trend for hair as well and when you step back its was everywhere. Nothings original. Pretty funny sitting at a hair show thinking looks like a nomad
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles: lol My favorite Q&A here. I'm guessing Intense has the same process.
  • 7 0
 is it true that there is a 29" version of the nomad coming for 2019? and are you thinking on making new changes to the high tower LT?
  • 7 2
 Bikes are cool and all, but what I really love is rad trails. What does Santa Cruz do to help trail access? Do you support STC? Imba? How can the industry be more effective at getting access and building cool trails?


What's the best trail in Santa Cruz (the town)? Is there a specific trail you use to test designs or shoot promos? I visited once, but only rode Demo Forest, since I think a lot of the good trails aren't official. Braille trail was dope
  • 6 0
 Santa Cruz is very involved with trail
advocacy and are a big sponsor of MBOSC, the local trail work group for Santa Cruz,CA. They also just donated two bad ass “Firetower” bikes to help repair trails damaged in Santa Rosa & Santa Barbara. Thanks for the love guys!

-Tory in Santa Barbara
  • 9 0
 We donate and raise hundreds of thousands of dollars every year for advocacy and trailbuilding - as well as volunteer and dig. And yes, we support STC: www.santacruzbicycles.com/en-US/advocacy
  • 2 0
 @joegraney: bravo
  • 11 2
 why are your FRAMES $2,900?
  • 9 1
 When can I give my money to Santa Cruz for a carbon version of the Chameleon? Seriously.
  • 5 0
 Agreed, they better hurry or i'm buying a Honzo!
  • 3 0
 I would just like A chameleon, they've been backordered since february.
  • 5 0
 In the description of the R&D process for Danny's new bike, you stated that Nic wanted to hand-deliver the frame to Danny and that it was "the single most expensive thing Santa Cruz has ever made...". How expensive are we talking here and what made it more expensive than the R&D for any other new Santa Cruz?
  • 1 0
 First massive thing: tooling costs. Not amortized on multiple years of production, but only on a few frames. Also, we developed entirely new processes (printed mandrels, latex bladders) and used brand-new materials which required testing and qualification in the lab.
  • 7 0
 How long does it take for the development of a new bike? From conceptualisation to the final production model.
  • 5 1
 Hi,ive heard in the past that your carbon frames are not warrented if the use of taco style chain devices are used on them not sure if this is correct its just what ive seen on the net i have noticed that you are selling complete Nomad V4's with a taco fitted.I have recently bought the new nomad frame and my LBS has said not to fit one is it invalidates my warrenty is this the case Cheers
  • 1 0
 The warranty did not cover ISCG tab damage. SC would not warranty a frame for that reason alone.
  • 5 0
 That was the case for aluminum V10s. The ISCG tabs were tack welded on, and when taco guides came out, we had to warn people off using them so they didn't break their frame. All current bikes, including all carbon DH frames we've ever made - are OK for tacos.
  • 4 0
 Hi Guys , why was APP design on Butcher and Nickel not kept ? sure with the new standard boost and thru-axel would of changed those rides? don't get me wrong I have had V10 , B2 and VPP is King !! but at same time My Butcher did feel very different too with that APP , almost like cheeky Bike Park Bike or Ideal for EWS , APP 29er would of been maybe cool.
  • 10 2
 PLEASE MAKE MORE XXL MODELS. Start with the Nomad!
  • 5 1
 It's great to see you guys making a push towards bringing more manufacturing in house! As someone who works in the manufacturing industry I'm consistently disappointed in how little is made in the USA these days for mountain bikes. It makes sense to start with bringing your carbon production over here since it is a process that needs to be controlled well and can demand a higher price tag. I'm curious as to how much you plan on moving over to North America? It would be rad to see you guys doing some aluminum and steel frames over here too! Even though I work in the world of carbon I I'm a fan of metal frames... I also wouldn't mind working for you guys at some point and moving back home to CA! Wink
  • 6 0
 We try to do as much possible in the US. We have a large assembly house in Santa Cruz where we build frames and wheels as well as assembling complete bikes. We also have a large machine shop and test lab where we can fabricate and test prototypes. We're committed to maintaining a presence in the US and growing it where we can.
  • 4 1
 @santacruzbicycles: Thanks for the reply! Having assembly and R&D in the US is great but I'm more curious about the actual manufacturing processes for production, any plans on bringing that to the US too?!
  • 3 0
 @millsr4: Still to be determined—this was our first full-frame manufacturing project, but we're certainly not looking to slow down!
  • 2 1
 @santacruzbicycles: Good to hear! As an FYI, I work in the metal tooling department for a large aerospace carbon and tooling manufacturer, specializing in outsource and smaller machined or fabricated assemblies... DM me if you want to see a resume! Wink
  • 7 1
 Is it possible that you ever build a single pivot trail bike again? A simple machine made of Carbon?
  • 4 0
 Why get rid of the Heckler and Superlight? Where are the "entry-level" options?
  • 4 1
 Some of the SC frames are still using a linkage with a regressive->progressive leverage curve. Why? I would assume
that a bike with a more or less progressive curve will be able to handle more gnarlyness, but lately, brands such as Mondraker, with the Foxy, seems to move from a progressive curve to a more linear one. It would be great if you could share your viewpoints on these matters.
  • 13 6
 Is there any chance for “Joe’s Corner” blog to be back?
  • 3 0
 Loved that feature on the old website....
  • 4 3
 @gtrguy: yes, he was the head grump of the industry. And I have loved him for that ever since.
  • 5 0
 It could, but my focus is more company wide than focused on engineering. What topics would you want covered? -JG
  • 7 2
 @santacruzbicycles: hm, geometry? Working with Syndicate and product design? Meeting needs of racers and people? How do you establish a brief for a new bike? Honest opinion about what rides well and where fashion begins?

I don’t know Smile loved the interview on Vital!
  • 3 0
 Santa Cruz has long been a leader in high quality carbon production. Lately, the ecological footprint of carbon fiber production, especially in China, has come under increased attention and scrutiny. Does Santa Cruz currently do anything to mitigate manufacturing waste and environmental impact at their partner's production facility in China? Are there plans for increased transparency in the future?

On a very positive note, I would say that Santa Cruz's carbon-fiber bikes have a (well deserved) reputation for durability. Long lasting frames are greener frames, as evidenced by the 2016 SC5010CC which I just sold to a 14 year-old high school mtb racer. I expect this frame will see a long continued life span with it's proud 2nd owner.
  • 10 0
 We're very invested in reducing our ecological impact. In production manufacturing, our layups are optimized to make use of 95% of the prepreg carbon allocated to each frame, and the 5% is chopped up and repurposed as randomly-oriented carbon mats that make their way into small parts and accessories (bottle cages, derailleur cages, etc.). Our factory in Santa Cruz is 100% solar-powered, and we've made a massive effort to reduce the amount of packaging, specifically plastics, that we use. Every bit of packaging that comes into is recycled, and we've refined our outbound packaging to be as efficient as possible.

NM
  • 3 0
 im guessing im not the only one who would be interested turning his love for MTB into his career:

is there a high demand of well trained individuals with experience in R+D, and what qualities and expertieses are most sought after?

is santa cruz offering any support to people who would like to follow such a career path?

Thanks!
  • 6 0
 V10/nomad linkage trickle down to Bronson?
  • 6 2
 At the moment, you (Santa Cruz) have a very engaged audience of core riders. Is there anything you want to ask us (the audience/customer base)?
  • 3 0
 Any non-top secret work being done in your composites division with graphene? It seems like these past few years that has been touted as a 'material of the future' for bike frames..
  • 2 0
 Graphene, and many others such as different formats of Carbon Nanotubes, are interesting but the technology isn't mature enough yet. We tested a lot of these in our Carbon Lab, this was one of the main reasons why we built it, and the good stuff will find its way into our bikes in the future.
  • 7 1
 Any plans to offer a "vintage" 26" Reserve Carbon option ?
  • 4 0
 Will you ever apply the 80/20 rule to your bikes and produce something off great value, that isn't hugely costly?

Or will you always be a boutique brand?
  • 3 18
flag CM999 (Apr 3, 2018 at 9:05) (Below Threshold)
 They arent a boutique brand. They are part of PON one of the biggest bike manufacturers in the world. Their bikes are made in the same factories as everyone elses.
  • 27 1
 @CM999: Santa Cruz owns a carbon manufacturing facility in China - no MTB for anyone else is made there. You may be referring to [insert every other brand name here].
  • 3 0
 Hello. Just purchased an N4! What a beast! My question is are there new colorways bieng released in the next few weeks? And lastly what advantages would i have in swapping the stock rct coil to a fox float x2? Thanks!
  • 2 0
 no new colors in the next few weeks. I have the Fox Float X2 on mine and its amazing. Not much time on the coil to compare for you though.
  • 5 2
 What considerations determine pricing, and why is it seemingly constantly increasing?

What are the enviromental tradeoffs/impact for using so much carbon in the cycling industry?
  • 2 8
flag m1dg3t (Apr 3, 2018 at 13:40) (Below Threshold)
 I love how I didn't get a response. Thanks Santa Cruz!
  • 2 1
 There was a recent price hike from brands like giant, specialized, etc due to the increase in gas prices. Shipping costs fluctuate often and that’s what other brands quote.

I think Santa Cruz isn’t even the biggest offender in this case, since at least they offer multiple grades of carbon to hit different price points. And speaking of carbon, at least SC recycles theirs.
  • 4 0
 Is there, as in the automotive industry, a loyalty program for the purchase of a new bike from a person who is already a customer of the brand?
  • 1 0
 This should be a thing, but the cynic in me says it would cut into profits too much when I imagine many SC sales will be returning customers...
  • 2 0
 I replaced my 2006 Heckler with a 2014 Heckler and now I see that this model has disappeared without any fanfare. SC made a big deal when it turned 18 and then killed it soon after. I would have liked a special edition model to celebrate the end of an era (or you could just bring it back). I know you are pushing the Bronson but some of us just don’t go any faster on the latest linkage suspension and a well designed single pivot is sufficient. Please make me a special edition 2020 model for when my current bike needs a refresh.
  • 2 0
 Props for supporting Johnny Waddell through his injury. I know he kept racing endurance events after that (no longer DH or FR) but I haven't heard anything of him for a while. Do you know what he's doing now? I can't find anything about him on the Santa Cruz website.
  • 8 0
 Johnny Waddell is still a Santa Cruz rider and continues to race endurance and enduro events in Australia. He has a young family now, so he mostly sticks close to home in Melbourne these days, but he's doing great and Johnny is a Santa Cruz family member for life!
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Cool! Send him mad respect for his inspiring recovery and sticking to riding his bike like that. Glad he's good and cheers for embracing him in the SC family! He's definitely an icon in the history of freeride mountainbiking.
  • 2 0
 Does Santa Cruz have recommendations for different rear shock tunes (other than stock).

I am a lighter rider and am having trouble with my 2016 5010 DPS EVOL rear shock being harsh and chattery on high speed sections. With volume spacers, I've found a happy medium for small bump compliance and bottoming resistance...but cant seem to fix the harshness on high speed downhill sections.
  • 2 0
 Is a new Bronson3 on the horizon?

I dearly love mine (2015), but would love a bit longer reach, steeper seat tube angle and/or an XXL to be more central
on the bike with easier climbing position - but don’t really wanna buy anything from anyone else. I’m guessing a Bronson3 would utilise the Nomad4 linkage and maybe go a half/degree slacker too? This would be the dream bike. Thanks!
  • 1 0
 What's the 3 to 4 year outlook for short travel 29ers like the Tallboy? The geo and travel numbers are a great platform for where I live in the mid west. It seems things are still going slacker and longer travel, beyond what's really needed around me. I'm thinking these type of bike will phase out before I get into my budget window for a new bike.
  • 2 0
 check out the new Blur, sounds like a good fit for your trails from what you said.
  • 2 0
 Any quantitative evidence that 29ers are faster in a downhill scenario? And has Chris Porter (of Mojo Bikes) gone too far with long and slack bikes, and if so - what is your reasoning for your opinion?
  • 1 0
 Yo you wonderful people at Santa Cruz!
I'm currently in college looking to go into business marketing and management and was wondering what's the best way to make my way to a job in Santa Cruz Bikes? I'm pursuing business with intentions in working for a bike company and want to work for someone who makes some of the best bikes in the world(since I am an avid rider, I want to have good lunch rides Wink ). Any advice on this would be greatly appreciated! @Santacruzbikes
  • 7 3
 hi guys!! i used to have an 2005 Bullit! amazing bike! been riding it almost daily during 8 years... just that, cheers!!
  • 7 6
 Any chance you guys would do a remake of the TRC
With 26” wheels for those of us who just can’t get along with bigger wheels? My current TRC is getting up there in age. Seriously I’ve tried the Big wheel bikes and I just don’t like them and I’m not the only one.
  • 3 1
 Agree! Or at least something with replaceable or adjustable dropouts that let you run 26" or 650b with correct geometry.
  • 3 0
 Does Santa Cruz have any plans on making XXL sizes in other models besides the Hightower LT and the V10? Maybe an XXL Nomad??
  • 4 1
 There is an XXL Tallboy
  • 2 6
flag brobiwankenobi (Apr 3, 2018 at 8:39) (Below Threshold)
 @GypsyTears: I specified Nomad.
  • 6 0
 We plan on offering XXL on 29 platforms. Future 29ers will be offered in XXL. -NA
  • 3 0
 Have you done any experimenting or considered a DH Bike with a higher pivot point and an idler? Considering it has been gaining so much popularity.
  • 3 0
 I am in the camp that tries to fully support my LBS...As you guys are growing and such...what plans do you have to help maintain your good relationships with local shops?
  • 5 0
 Our dealer network is a key connection to riders and is a significant focus for our business. Supporting our dealers will continue to be a priority for us for the future.
  • 6 1
 Why are bikes so expensive?
  • 1 2
 Like those Danny Macaskill videos?
  • 1 2
 Marketing is expensive when they get through as much kit as they do
  • 3 0
 Technical Q: basically everyone you see pictures of is using 3M DP420 or maybe Hysol E-20HP adhesives. One of your photos shows something else: what is it, and why?
  • 6 0
 We selected a methacrylate adhesive for this project because of excellent strength properties with mixed-material interfaces such as carbon-aluminium, and because it doesn't require a post-cure in an oven. - NM
  • 8 7
 Release cycles in the cycling industry are broken. Example: the newest Nomad came out in something like mid/late July last year and wasn't really available in quantities until even later than that. Bike purchases, particularly at the high-end where Santa Cruz plays, are researched, debated, and decided on by consumers far before mid-summer. Those consumers tend to be quite informed, definitely opinionated, and need every bit of information before they decide which bike manufacturer is going to get their thousands of dollars. Last season's late release of the Nomad was a nightmare for dealers (particularly in Canada) in that purchases were either delayed (usually by a season) or those consumer dollars went to other brands and bikes. You're not nearly as bad as Shimano, but when will Santa Cruz get it together in terms of new release timing? And no, the usual cop-out answer of "We release bikes when they're ready" isn't sufficient. Be better than that.

Question 2: I understand that the population of Canada is roughly that of California's and that the mountain bike market here is vastly smaller, but is Santa Cruz planning on doing something, anything really, to address the issues it's facing in the Canadian market? Your distribution up here sucks, your shipping sucks, the issues surrounding duties suck, etc etc etc. Sure, your sales staff actually answers the phone and as such could teach Transition a thing or two, but are sales up here really so low that they couldn't support proper Canadian-based distribution? I know the Canadian $ price list was a big deal and quite welcome by dealers up here, but is that really the best you can do????
  • 9 16
flag mattradical (Apr 3, 2018 at 11:00) (Below Threshold)
 Shipping to and working with Canadian tax system sucks. Maybe the problem is Canada @somebikeguy
  • 19 1
 Santa Cruz is a product-driven company and our development cycles aren’t hindered by the constraints of selling seasons. We aim to bring new products to market when they are ready, which isn’t always an ideal time, but rather than postponing a product for months to sync with seasonality we want to get the raddest bikes to the market as soon as possible.

To the Canada question, we’ve been spending a lot of time dedicated to Canada in the past few years as we realize that, while smaller than the US market, it’s still an important part of the North American mountain bIke market. We now have a sales and marketing team focused Canada so expect to see more presence and support up North.
  • 4 1
 We aim to release bikes when they are in-store for riders to go see and demo them in person, and not have it be vaporware for months. Sometimes we don't make enough for the demand, and the bikes are scarce in the first months in some sizes, color, spec configurations. Last year's Nomad release couldn't have been any earlier for that reason - believe us we tried.
  • 3 23
flag somebikeguy (Apr 3, 2018 at 11:39) (Below Threshold)
 @santacruzbicycles: Overlooking the fact that you went with a version of "we release bikes when they're ready" for the sake of conversation.

Does your answer to the Canada question mean that shops can expect better cost pricing than "USD + conversion" at some point in the near future? This would be helpful in seeing slightly more reasonable retail pricing in Canada, which would do wonders in increasing sales up here. There are legit differences in ride and consumer support that can account for a bit of a cost increase over a Trek, Giant, etc, but it's really hard for most buyers to swallow when the upfront cost is sky-high.
  • 16 3
 @somebikeguy: "Overlooking the fact that you went with a version of "we release bikes when they're ready" for the sake of conversation."

that seems like an oddly aggressive response to what is a pretty reasonable answer.....
  • 7 0
 @somebikeguy: If the price was better than "USD + conversion" why would someone from the states bother buying it there when they could come to Canada and pick it up cheaper?
  • 5 5
 @zacrutt: Are you OK with having both US and Canadian duties imposed on a bike, along with GST twice, once when it's imported by the shop that's selling you a bike and once again when you pay for it at the cash register? Because that's pretty much what's happening right now when you buy a Santa Cruz in Canada and it's atrocious for shops and consumers. They're not the only company stuck with this issue, but they're probably the biggest company that can't or won't find a better way, which I'm sure PON Holdings could figure out given that they've done just that for Cervelo.

Results would be better pricing and margin for Canadian shops, better retail pricing for Canadian riders and more market share for Santa Cruz. Win/win/win.
  • 4 13
flag somebikeguy (Apr 3, 2018 at 13:10) (Below Threshold)
 @sooner518: Original question: "And no, the usual cop-out answer of "We release bikes when they're ready" isn't sufficient. Be better than that."

Answer: "Santa Cruz is a product-driven company and our development cycles aren’t hindered by the constraints of selling seasons. We aim to bring new products to market when they are ready, which isn’t always an ideal time, but rather than postponing a product for months to sync with seasonality we want to get the raddest bikes to the market as soon as possible." - Corporate speak for "We release bikes when they're ready"

Yeah I'm gonna call that out. Polite as it may be, it's still nothing more than "We release bikes when they're ready."
  • 16 0
 @somebikeguy: maybe they are giving you that answer because its the truth... are you implying there is some other reason that they release bikes at sub-optimal times of the year? Im sure they generally have plans to release bikes right before the start of the riding season (nevermind that in Santa Cruz, they pretty much year-round riding) but theyre dealing with a worldwide supply chain with all sorts of raw materials and build kits and parts coming from tons of different vendors. engineering delays happen. manufacturing delays happen. QC issues happen. shipping delays happen. constrained parts from vendors happen. any of those things (plus a million other things) can result in a bike launch being delayed. and they have to cooridnate with marketing and advertisement so that they can fly Pinkbike writers out to some exotic locale so they can write a huge story and get people psyched on the sweet new bike they made.

and all these things fall under the response of "we release bikes when theyre ready". its not a copout. its just the truth.

I suppose if the bike is "ready" to be released in October, they can hold onto the bikes, and have a ton of inventory carrying costs and wasted warehouse space holding onto a bunch of frames because it doesnt fall at the right time of year. then 3 months later, they can release the bike and please you.... since @joegraney is reading this thread, let me be the first to suggest that to him.
  • 2 1
 @somebikeguy i work at a transition dealer and i called four times for one teeny linkage part, only to have them ship me the wrong one. they’re a bunch of goons
  • 1 0
 I kinda thought Santa Cruz distribution was pretty good in the lower mainland. Dunbar, steed, kinetik, Tantalus in squamish. Are they disproportionately absent in the Okanagan?
  • 1 0
 @somebikeguy: I don't get this comment. I bought a 2017 Bronson last year. I live in the lower mainland, which means I can easily shop in the US if the pricing makes sense. I shopped around plenty and did not get the sense that the Canadian options were less competitive. I bought from a local shop.
  • 2 1
 The only thing holding Greg back last season was the ENVE rims, so many failures on a race run that would have resulted in a podium. How confident are you guys that your reserve rims will hold up with the GOAT on board? And what sets your carbons rims apart from all the rest? Besides the life time warranty.
  • 2 0
 We definitely can't curse ourselves answering your first question.

What sets them apart is a balanced ride feel (not too stiff, not too flexy), lifetime warranty, and all Reserve wheels are built by pro wheelbuilders and riders here in Santa Cruz.
  • 3 2
 What is the companies stance on customers modifying Santa Cruz bikes for added versatility? For example the long-travel OG Hightower and long-shock mods for the 5010? I'm a big advocate for versatility of these really expensive products, and it sometimes seems that manufacturers actively try to limit versatility - like tire clearance, in new products as a way of getting us to buy more bikes: when in reality I want one or two bikes that can do nearly everything. I think I heard of someone fitting 29x2.6 and 275x3.8 tires in a new Chameleon....the demand is there, why don't manufactures like Santa Cruz help us?
  • 4 0
 Apparently Danny Mac cracked the carbon frame within an hour of riding... Can you confirm this rumour?
  • 20 0
 He definitely broke the first frame within half an hour—I reinforced the spot where it broke on the spare frame I brought to Scotland, and he didn't break that one. You can read more of that story here: www.santacruzbicycles.com/en-US/danny-macaskill-trials-bike#carbon-repair

NM
  • 1 0
 What percentage of frames come back on warranty claims? You guys seem pretty generous with it. A few weeks ago, I saw someone back their bike on their rack into a fire hydrant. I was wondering if you guys would have warrantied such damage.
  • 4 0
 oh man, that would suck! we try to be cool about it when we can and the generosity isn't being abused. For something like you described, we'd offer the original owner a "no-fault" warranty, which is basically like a good deal on a replacement frame to help ease the pain.
  • 2 1
 As a sophomore in mechanical engineering in the U.S. who also works at a large shop that deals Santa Cruz, what would be your guys' advice on breaking into the industry as an engineer? I have heard that networking and timing are crucial but I am wondering if there are other steps I can take as a student to be ready for the industry.

Thanks,

Jared
  • 2 1
 I chose to start with aerospace but I still haven't been able to cross over... I'd like to hear an answer to this too!
  • 5 0
 I highly recommend just getting started doing some stuff on your own. You can design and build a bike (carbon or metal), and you'll learn a lot. You can use that project to build a portfolio, which helps show potential employers you are motivated to learn, a self-starter, and you've already made some mistakes that you won't repeat when on payroll. good luck - send photos
  • 4 0
 What would you rather ride down Val de Sole, a Mk1 V10 or a 2018 hightower Lt?
  • 2 0
 So now that other companies are making VPP style linkages, who has made the best one? Follow up question, are these copy-cats the reason you've moved your linkage from below the BB to above it?
  • 1 0
 Is the Heckler coming bike? solid entry level bike, your entry level are expensive. Is Santa Cruz planning on allowing customization of the kits kind of like what Ibis and Specialized are doing. I would had love that option went i bought my Nomad.
  • 5 0
 Is the new Bronson due to come out this year as a 2019 model?
  • 1 0
 Waiting for this...
  • 1 0
 My 09 Nomad changed my life! Seriously, I'm still rocking it, ride the hell out of it and was worth every penny.

Any suggestions on how I can keep my zerks from popping out? Lower link seems fine. Hate to replace just for that.

Any chance you'll bring back paint color options? Color choices in the past few years have been a bummer.

-Thanks SC
  • 5 1
 @santacruzbicycles Joe Graney, if you were a hot dog, and you were starving, would you eat yourself?
  • 4 0
 I have very little impulse control.
  • 3 0
 @joegraney Weekend Update?
  • 6 0
 @santacruzbicycles: Don't jerk me around Norm, it's a simple question.
  • 3 2
 While my 2014 5010cc is the most fun bike I’ve ever ridden and has made me a Santa Cruz rider for life (aesthetics be damned) I can’t help but find it (and most other Santa Cruz frames) somewhat less than inspiring in terms of aesthetics.

It’s like your bikes are phenomenal in bed with the lights off, but then in the morning it’s like “hmmm... sure as hell looked cuter last night in the bar”.

Is the pared-down, minimalistic, arguably boring look of Santa Cruz MTBs more a result of form following function? Or is the vanilla flavored banality of the MTB lineup an actual aesthetic goal as vigorously pursued as the performance of your bikes?
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles
With the new lab, are you still building aluminum test mules during development or are you going carbon straight away ?
Do you think rapid protytyping or additive manufacturing could help building carbon mules quicker ?
  • 1 0
 Great session today! Hopefully more to follow with other MTB producers. Valuable insights into a highly competitive business and some great feedback/suggestions for SC to continue to meet consumer desires and improve their offerings
  • 2 1
 The Hightower LT was born almost accidentally, but few trail bikes are as good as it. How amazing was that for you and what are the most wanted improvements are you thinking for the next iteration?
  • 4 0
 How does Santa Cruz choose/hire its race mechanics?
  • 15 0
 Caber toss and feats of strength.
  • 2 0
 Why did SC switch from 3 colors on your frames (2016 frame color plus 2 color logos) to 2 color. The 2016 color schemes were so good
  • 2 0
 I dig the Stigmata but are you guys gonna do a gravel bike that can fit really big tires? Or an endurance road bike? Love my Highball, btw.
  • 2 0
 When designing the layup schedule, what influences the decision of woven vs. UD tapes? Do certain areas of the frame require or benefit from one laminate vs the other?
  • 2 0
 Yes, some areas on a frame definitely benefit from one type of material versus the others. Same with our trail bikes where we use an array of laminate types and fiber types for every frame. Fabrics (woven and braided) are great for high-strain and impact prone areas, whereas UD Tapes are great for stiffening the structure.
NM
  • 2 0
 whats the difference in the painting process for a C and CC carbon frame? The paint on 2018 CC frames seems to wear off faster than the paint on the C frames.
  • 3 0
 same paint and process used on both. The only differences are in masking and some decal types on frames.
  • 3 1
 I would like to ask you SC if you will ever made some slopestyle bike / frame like Logan Peat has. Thanks for the answer and have a nice day !
  • 3 3
 I worked all summer to buy a 2016 Trek Slash 9.9 my dream bike a full carbon “enduro bike”. I spent all my money on it and it was good for about 5 months, plan was to ride it for four years until I graduated and had money again. That is until the chainstay cracked and allowed the seat stay to twist and also crack in the bridge above the tire (I live in southeast Michigan and ride it next to XC hardtails except for a couple times a year that I make the drive to Marquette, not like I was using the bike to ride Whistler everyday). I was told “the best they could do” on replacement was a 20% discount on the parts, it was going to be over $1000 for replacements. Leaving me high and dry without a bike and not enough cash as a college student paying for school to purchase replacements. I have always wanted a Santa Cruz, for as long as I have been riding actually. Thanks to the situation however, I am very skeptical about carbon now. I would love a Hightower C for my next bike. How trustworthy is the carbon for someone who weighs 190lbs with riding gear, and how are your warrantys on carbon frames and carbon rear ends? A future costumer-
  • 3 0
 I broke the seatstay bridge on my 2016 Fuel EX without breaking a chainstay... I feel your pain. They warranty replaced mine, but I also have trust issues now.
  • 12 2
 If you've always wanted an SC, for as long as you've been riding actually, then why'd you buy a Trek?
  • 7 3
 Buy Alu bike next. Prob solved
  • 3 2
 @lightsgetdimmer: what a brilliant suggestion, I never thought of that
  • 2 0
 @pdxkid: No local SC shop
  • 2 2
 If frame warranty is your thing, buy a Giant. Lifetime. Period.
  • 1 0
 I weigh 200 geared up. Been riding SC, since 2012. V10, Bronson, Bronson, V10-27.5, HT, HTLT - all carbon. The only break I had was a crack in the first Bronson's downtube, due to a rock impact. Will at SC was REALLY fair with an entire replacement frame, since there were no 1st gen Bronson's left, of the color I had. The carbon won't fail because of your weight.
  • 2 1
 @pdxkid: nice burn! haha
  • 2 0
 @Poulsbojohnny: I have warrantied 3 frames with Giant. I wouldn't say they were crash broken; however they were riddin hard, jumped super far and put away soaking wet. Giant always sent out a new one and now it's all I buy and haven't had issues with any of their frames post 2011.
  • 5 0
 One of us sitting in the room is about 240 in riding gear (depending on burrito consumption), and hasn't managed to break his Hightower LT! We feel carbon is a totally trustworthy material, and if you do manage to break it, we'll cover it, whether it's a warranty replacement due to manufacturing, or a no-fault replacement frame offered at cost if you accidentally back over it with a truck.
  • 4 0
 As someone who "cracked" (I could BARELY make out a crack, and I thought it was just in the paint but my LBS suggested we contact SC Warranty Dept) a 5 year old carbon Blur LT, and was given a free Nomad3 frame replacement..... I wouldnt worry about the SC warranty. Theyre not the fastest in the world becuase theyre pretty busy, but they took care of me. honestly, they went above and beyond for me. when i bought the frame, it had a 2 year warranty. then they bumped it to 5 years. my frame was like 4 years and 11 months and they didnt really even ask me that many questions. just photo of the crack. a copy of my sales receipt... thats about it.
  • 1 0
 @eoisaacs: you're welcome
  • 1 0
 Where do you see the geometry of bikes going? Will the Bronson feature a full triangle on the rear next iteration?
Is the Nomad 4 the final production version of the Driver 8? A glorious free-ride bike!
  • 4 2
 Are you guys ever going to bring your manufacturing back to the states? Used to work for SAPA inc and it was an honor to manufacture your guys bikes!
  • 6 0
 thanks for asking Scott. It was a shame when Sapa didn't want to make our frames any longer - that was the last place to make them domestically. We're always looking for ways to make bikes better and closer to the source. When we are able to make the business case for it work it will be seriously looked at.
  • 1 0
 @joegraney: thanks for the info. I was only there from 2004 through late summer of 06. Was neat seeing the evolution of your V10’s while I was there.
  • 3 1
 How much does the raw carbon cost to manufacture each frame, and how long does it take a Chinese worker to lay up a complete frame?
  • 1 0
 Material cost is about a third of the cost of a frame, and layup time varies greatly from one model to another based on complexity, weight, shape, etc.
  • 3 0
 Your thoughts on the new trend of reduced fork offset, and are you planning on using them for the 2019's?
  • 2 2
 Will Santa Cruz eventually make bikes with woven carbon on the outside and unidirectional carbon on the inside of the frames. Isnt that layup much better for impact resistance? I think you should create an ultra high end low production model with this layup. Have it be your Halo model for R&D like car companies do with F1
  • 6 0
 In this particular case with Danny's trials frame, we didn't use woven carbon on the outside, but a braided fabric called QISO. It is indeed excellent in impact strength and this is why we chose to use it in Danny's frame. It was the best way to test it out and quantify just how strong it could be. This material is heavily regulated and difficult to export, but it's something we're looking at for Asia-based manufacturing. You can see a bit more about it on our site: www.santacruzbicycles.com/danny-macaskill-trials-bike
NM
  • 3 0
 Any plans to move to thermoplastic composites in any way? I hear they are all that.
  • 2 0
 We already use fiber-filled thermoplastics for injected parts, but as far as "continuous" long fiber continuous composites as concerned, we're still experimenting. CFRTP UD tapes are still very challenging to use in bike frames because the material is dry (zero tack) and is much more rigid than Thermoset (Epoxy) UD Tapes, which makes it very challenging for complex shapes and tight radii.
  • 1 0
 All your new bikes are now coming with integrated headsets. The official reason is because integrated headsets are supposedly stronger than traditional press fit cup type. Will the V10 end up with an integrated headset?
  • 6 0
 We're going to stick with an external headset on the V10 to allow for angle and reach adjust headsets. NA
  • 2 1
 With your f/s frames you give multiple options for colour but why only offer the chameleon in one colour? And who the hell chose THAT colour?? I presume they've been sacked now......
  • 6 0
 the only thing more polarizing than tire selection is color choice. its a love/hate thing. I'll take the blame for choosing one color, and hope to add more at some point. nobody got sacked, we just ridicule poor choices made forever which is more enjoyable
  • 1 0
 @joegraney: thanks for your response and I appreciate your honesty!
Are there any plans to develop the chameleon further(slacker ht, steeper st, longer reach etc)?
By the way the purple on the new highball is rad....
  • 2 0
 I love my chameleon, the color not so much... too bad it rode SO much nicer than the others I tested I just HAD to buy it! I've been riding mountain bikes since the mid 80s and this is the bike I've always wanted, thank you!
  • 2 1
 Is Santa Cruz exploring the idea of a 120-140mm or so XC/trail bike that you can use/swap 29" or 27.5 wheels on?
I ride 29er for XC and them jump on my 27.5 for trail/jump/park. would be nice to have that in a single bike.
  • 5 0
 Isn't that what the Hightower (non-lt) is? It's a 135mm 29er/27.5+ bike that would seem to fit your requirements
  • 1 0
 @Gregdogg: Can you swap wheels and possibly a peice of the suspension to alter the geometry? The only reason I aks is I test rode the new Scott Genius and it is set up this way and I thought that would be perfect but a little too much travel for my XC rides.
  • 2 0
 @Three6ty: @Three6ty: The main copy on the hightower product page mentions a high/low flip chip to help adjust geometry. The 27.5+ build kit does come with a 150mm fork (vs 140mm for the 29") to help keep the HA at 67 degrees. You could always run 150mm in both 29 and 27.5?
  • 1 0
 @Gregdogg: Thanks for the info Greg! I appreciate it. 150mm is a little much for what i'm looking for but if the bike can be built up light and there is an option to reduce travel to 4" or so with adjustments on the shocks then It would be a good option.
  • 1 0
 What can SC do to bring down the cost of components such as high end wheelsets? Like the idea of the SC reserve carbon wheels, bars, etc, but the cost benefit just isnt there. BTW, proud Tallboy owner.
  • 1 0
 Any chance for a Chameleon in carbon fiber that still supports SS dropouts? Would love to see a steeper SA, but could get by slamming that seat forwards like I do on my Tallboy 3.
  • 4 0
 Can you lot understand what Ratboy is saying most of the time?
  • 1 0
 1. I have SC Hightower with tire 29" and want to upgrade the fork with Fox Float 36 Travel 160. Is this ok?
2. If the Fox Float is boost, should the rear hub changed with hub boost also?

Thanks.
  • 2 0
 What's the crack with the alloy V10 we seen in the gopro vid with Luca in Idyllwild?
  • 3 0
 Is Santa Cruz gonna form an XCO team now that the Blur is out?
  • 2 0
 Will you ever sell after market links for Hightowers so current frames can fit metric shocks?
  • 3 0
 So Danny's bike. One off or potential for mass/limited production??
  • 2 0
 Do you plan to produce an alloy version of the HIghtower LT?
If so, can you give a hint as to the timetable for its release?
  • 2 3
 What was the main reasoning behind only creating a 29'er Hightower LT? It seems to reason that a 27.5 option wouldn't be too much more expensive to design / implement, and could have substantially different handling characteristics.

Also, what is your opinion on outfitting a BroMad (Bronson Nomad love-child), vs. a Hightower LT?
  • 1 0
 That’s a Bronson.
  • 1 0
 Will we see a 29er with the new Nomad 4 suspension layout? Or will you tweak the Hightower HT to give it a specific front triangle?
  • 1 0
 With the trend of many brands coming out with 160 - 170mm long travel 29er enduros, can we expect to see a true long travel Hightower model or 29er Nomad in the future?
  • 1 0
 Hello Santa Cruz!
Do you plan to move back manufacturing to the US with your new facility? Or at least, building all prototypes in house?
  • 3 0
 How long until new Nomad colours will be launched?
  • 1 0
 Do you plan on moving manufacturing of all frames to the new facility, or at least prototype frames? I'm an engineering student and am curious about how your process works.
  • 2 0
 Any chance metric links for the HTLT will be available for consumers any time soon?
  • 1 0
 how do you get a bladder out of a carbon frame after it has been moulded and cured?
I just could never understand how it wouldn't get stuck inside the frame.

cheers guys Smile
  • 4 4
 Do you guys have a 'worth' on athletes that ride for the brand compared to bikes that aren't in your line up for customers to buy, like is it image/fame/marketability or comp results etc etc. How do you balance that out?
  • 3 0
 Are there any plans for an Alloy Hightower LT?
  • 2 1
 Any plans for alloy any full suspension SC?
  • 1 0
 @bman33: They do have at least a couple available in aluminum. I believe the new Nomad and 5010 at least.
  • 1 0
 @cgdibble: Oh nice. I thought it was just the Chameleon and the Jackal.
  • 2 0
 @bman33: I just looked again and they also have Alu options for the Bronson and Tallboy.

So Alu options for: Nomad, Bronson, 5010, Tallboy, Chameleon, and Jackal. Not too bad, really. 50% of their bikes in Alu is definitely better than I thought.

I think the HT and HTLT are what folks are really looking for in Alu next.
  • 1 1
 @cgdibble: cool. I glanced at the website and didn't dig too deeply. My coffee hasn't kicked in yet. Ha!
  • 1 0
 To build on Camber's comment and others, more generally speaking, what is SC's strategy for continuing to develop alloy versions of their models? Is this still part of the strategy? How does SC determine which models get both carbon and alloy versions? In the models that SC offers both carbon and alloy, what is the take-up rate for each in comparison and is that consistent across models? Thanks!
  • 5 2
 Are you going to make more XXL frames across more models?
  • 1 0
 Amen
  • 3 1
 You can only ride one currently available stock Santa Cruz for the next year. Which model do you pick and why?
  • 9 0
 Nomad. It doesn't slow me down climbing (i'm already slow) but it makes me a better rider descending.
  • 5 3
 are you planning on entering the e-bike market? if so, when and will you launch in the US or Europe?
  • 1 2
 Kranked has some amazing 'electrified' Santacruz musheens!!
  • 3 2
 You folks need some free engineering help? I'm third year mech e at UC Berkeley and will live out of my van and work for you fo' free this summer. Slide in to my DM's gents
  • 2 0
 Are you going to bring a new Hightower LT out with the new nomad linkage? Ill be straight to the shops if you do!
  • 4 0
 When.. a nomad 29er???
  • 1 0
 What bike do you guys ride in the Demo Forest? What about the campus trails? I'd imagine different bikes would be best for those two
  • 1 0
 Demo sucks... don't ride there. Campus? Don't ride there either, it sucks too.
  • 2 0
 Why do gravel grinder bikes have short top tubes, toe overlap, long stems and steep head tube angles?
  • 2 0
 Because they want roadies to buy them, not mountain bikers.
  • 2 0
 Is the new Bronson going to have a solid rear triangle like the new zombie Blur?
  • 1 0
 Do you guys have plans to release a 29er V10 this year? And more importantly any plans to make the linkages and rear triangle available to make the 27.5 versions into 29ers?
  • 1 0
 Are you expecting through it to the market soon or it is just a very exclusive bike for Danny?... Finaly: do you have any job vacance at santa cruz? Haha thank you
  • 2 0
 what did you guys learn from this project that will directly relate to future trail bikes?
  • 4 0
 We tried several new materials along with lay-up and molding techniques. Small manufacturing tricks like reusable latex bladders. Most of these things are invisible to the consumer once the frame is painted but will result in a more durable product. This is one of our top priorities—making something that can take a beating.
NA
  • 1 0
 As a mechanical engineering student, what would you say would be the most valuable skills to focus on if I want to work in the industry?
  • 3 0
 I miss the good old vpfree and bullet days
  • 2 0
 If Joe’s corner is not coming back, how about a special on some suspension set up tips and tricks.
  • 1 0
 If you wanted to do a marketing sales video to prove that an aluminium frame was stronger that a carbon one by smashing them up would you do it?
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles are you guys thinking of making a gearbox bike and work with companies to make them better?
  • 1 0
 Did the colour of the new Nomad affect your sales figures?! Just joking but got me thinking would you ever consider a custom scheme like Orbea do?
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles Have you considered trying to create a fork and shock similar to Specialized's Brain for either the Highball or new Blur?
  • 2 0
 way late, but @santacruzbicycles bring back the Jackal 20" and 24" for the BMX crowd again
  • 1 0
 if someone like santa cruz or ellsworth or anyone else stops making a bike like the 4x for example, can someone else pick up that bike and start making it?
  • 2 0
 When will the 29er V10 be available for sale? Thanks!
  • 2 0
 When comes the new V10, is it 27,5 or 29?
  • 3 0
 Carbon Chameleon - when?
  • 1 0
 Start to Finish how long did Danny's new trials bike take? Design through production. Thanks
  • 1 0
 All in, it was about 18 months—it wasn't full-throttle from everyone during that time, but from the time we started talking about it to today, it's been a year and a half. NM
  • 1 0
 Hi guys,
Are the alloy wheelsets that ship with your build kits also assembled in the U.S?
  • 3 0
 They are—we build all the wheels that ship on all of our bikes here.
  • 1 0
 Did anyone ask a weight on the complete bike yet? Or even just a frame and fork weight?
  • 2 0
 Frame: 1600g.
Fork: 600g.
Complete Bike weight: 9.6kg (21.0Lbs), which nets out to somewhere around four pounds lighter than his aluminum bikes.

NM
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles: wow my fourplay comes in at just about 24lbs and I have no idea where I could drop 3lbs off it. Stiffness wise is it comparable to his Skye?
  • 3 1
 Was that V10 fat bike real or photo shop ;D
  • 3 1
 Are you planning on making a 170mm 29er?
  • 6 4
 Why isn't Santa Cruz addressing the downhill tandem bike market?
  • 4 0
 www.pinkbike.com/photo/2251336
  • 1 0
 @joegraney: Is that preproduction? I'm excited to see what kind of tandem bikes we'll see on the DH Cup tour this season.
  • 1 2
 Everyone would like to try a MegaAvalanche bike: 29er, 160mm+, 78*+ ST (who wants to sit on the nose of their saddle); 65*- HT; 500mm+ reach in XL. When will you make one? It will also work for enduro and other MTBing.
  • 4 2
 How do you keep Geoff Casey caffeinated?
  • 3 0
 La Marzocco GS3 and Heart Roasters
  • 1 0
 Any thoughts of bringing back the Bantam with slightly updated geo? That thing ripped for cheap and was largely overlooked.
  • 2 1
 The red anodizing on my 1991 Tazmon is fading, can I get warranty? JK keep up the great work!
  • 1 2
 CHAMELEON FRAME.

do it. sell us the thing.

I know that's not a question.

I don't need a chameleon built with basic parts.

I know even your employees squabble of the blem frames.

-Your friendly neighbor Smile
  • 4 0
 Frame Only Pricing:
Chameleon A - $749 USD
  • 1 0
 @cruzer4: YAAAY THE FIXED IT
  • 1 0
 I noticed the new Blur uses angular contact & radial bearings, will these be applied across the whole range in future?
  • 5 0
 We made the switch to radial bearings in all of our frames last year—they're both good options, but radial bearings are more tolerant to less-precise assembly (read: those of us who think we have torque wrenches in our wrists).
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles: www.tattooskid.com/inky-cells-tattoo-co-page-6_GRdyG1so8vebDWU8Tnre50b0jRKdLos2h5fjTMjLaA4/AKm%7CbGfGyHfpywzD*482Co6iNsbvavyegEH8nljJFLHVbmoWKYf*BJB7xW*9GBnzyjviasR0iPBSN5P*5IkkAg4ky6FcfSafGl%7CwPMiDMCFuzIDC6lZGW3uN5IBFn*lJ
  • 2 0
 @santacruzbicycles: The old calibrated wrist routine... I even make the "click" sounds, to make myself feel good about my "gutentite" torque specs
  • 1 0
 You guys ever bringing back the Bullit, Heckler and Superlight? I miss my affordable Santa Cruz FS bikes.
  • 1 0
 Why do you not allow angleset or angle ajustment at headtube on your trail bikes?
  • 1 0
 What is one trend/standard/feature that we will look back at in 10 years and say, "what were we thinking...."?
  • 1 0
 Naming the new standards silly things other than just using the numbers. "BOOST" "Super BOOST +" yada yada, just give me the numbers por favor
  • 1 0
 Hi,

Do you have any plans to make the reserve rims available for purchase or even offer a non boost option for the wheels?
  • 2 0
 You can purchase rims now
  • 1 0
 @KBS1: Really? Where? I haven't been able to find them in Ireland or UK.
  • 2 0
 @Kamba6: we have them at 18 Bikes, can ship to Ireland.
  • 1 0
 Why do you believe in making bikes for both sex's rather than making unisex frames/brand?
  • 1 0
 Cos women are different to men.
  • 11 0
 they are unisex frames - we identified this early as marketing bullshit, and merely made sure sizes for shorter riders were available. Why have a woman's brand in the first place? Its to allow that brand to do what it wants for customers that identify with something which is sometimes different than how Santa Cruz does things. Women who identify with the Santa Cruz brand instead of Juliana are equally welcome.
  • 2 1
 @joegraney: just curious how many dudes have you seen riding a Juliana? Saw a big bloke with a large moustache riding a LIV today
  • 4 0
 @dirtbeard: Liv colours are better than than the male versions! I’d ride one!
  • 1 0
 Are there many jobs for software engineers in the industry preferably on the R&D side of things?
  • 1 0
 not a lot in product R&D. you'd probably look more on the operations or IT side of the business at bike companies if you want to work at one
  • 2 0
 Please tell us the origin story of our warranty guy Willie.
  • 7 0
 Willie baked bread at Beckman's bakery, and used to bring bread to Bontrager guys until he got a job there. He drove around in a crappy old station wagon doing race support. When Bontrager closed down, he came over to Santa Cruz next door. And he never left.
  • 2 0
 How many beers can Peaty drink in one night?
  • 2 0
 Actual beer or Stella?
  • 3 0
 I asked Steve, and he said "“ Not as much as in my hay day". So thats all you get...
  • 1 0
 With the migration of DH to 29", will you continue to offer a 27.5 version for those of us just trying to maximize our fun?
  • 2 0
 Will you ever make an aluminum 26" freeride bike again? Please?
  • 1 0
 What does Danny Macaskill new Carbon bike weight??? It is the question people want to know . Thx
  • 1 0
 Frame: 1600g. Forks: 600g. Complete Bike weight: 9.6kg (21.0Lbs), which is about 1.8kg (4lbs) lighter than his previous bike.
  • 1 0
 Why are frames only so expensive now ?
Is SC (and most others) steering buyers to full builds ?
  • 1 0
 Any plans on releasing any destructive testing videos again soon? Maybe show the progression of carbon?
  • 1 0
 Was the Nomad 4 ever seriously considered to be a long travel 29er?
Were N4 29er test mules ridden?
  • 1 0
 Is it weird that you guys make such awesome bikes, but work in a place where all the good trails are illegal?
  • 1 1
 When will the trials bike be available to the general public? Will their be any different price entry levels?
  • 1 0
 Any chances you will be doing that???
  • 1 0
 Which are Danny's bike geometries?
Chainstay, BB rise,Wheelbase reach ...
  • 1 0
 @santacruzbicycles
  • 1 0
 Ever thought about a Slopestyle/slalom bike? Full sus Jackal?
  • 1 0
 Direct sale? please just do it
  • 1 0
 ETA of shopping for chameleon frames?
  • 1 0
 Look up tanner fox gtr wrap...think about that colour
  • 2 1
 Should have kept Logan peat.
  • 1 1
 Hi Santa Cruz. You guys make some killer bikes, but why always VPP?

Thanks,

Dylan
  • 1 0
 because they work very well in all conditions, why would they compromise?
  • 2 1
 why would your drop logan peat smh
  • 1 0
 Budget friendly V10 any time soon? yay? nay?
  • 1 0
 What's next after carbon?
  • 3 0
 unobtanium
  • 1 0
 Can you explain why you prefer vpp to dw?
  • 2 0
 Where’s Rob Roskopp?
  • 2 0
 Probably sitting at his desk.
  • 3 0
 @onemanarmy: he's not at his desk, i share an office with him. He's on spring break with his kids this week.
  • 1 0
 @joegraney: beauty. That's way better. My kids are on spring break too. Unfortunately... I am at my desk. Not far from. you... LOL!
  • 1 0
 Gearbox pinion ebike in the near future?
Please and thanks
  • 1 0
 Why a lot of Filipinos, like gazillions of them, love Santa Cruzes?!
  • 10 0
 high IQ?
  • 1 0
 New dj with horizontal dropouts?
  • 1 0
 Version of the V10, I should say
  • 1 0
 Will this be a one off or a production frame at some point santa cruz
  • 1 0
 Can we expect to see a new updated 5010 and/or V10 in the near furure?
  • 1 1
 Why didnt i get hired for your demo driver position? I swore i nailed the interview :_(
  • 1 1
 Why did you guys change factory's? especially to a factory known to have lower quality and quality control.
  • 1 1
 quality and quality control are basically the same thing
  • 1 0
 Is there a vacancy for a janitor at SCB?
  • 1 0
 I bet that is contracted out
  • 1 2
 I wish you could make a bike like the giant reign and around the price as the reign 2
  • 1 1
 you mean, wet noodle rear triangle and Maestro? just go buy a reign.
  • 5 4
 DH carbon rim? When?
  • 10 0
 We started testing Reserve DH carbon rims with the Syndicate in the off-season, but we want to prove it through a full race season before we start selling it - NM
  • 4 5
 Would you recommend the SC V10 or the Trek Session?, after a DH bike and would value your input.
  • 2 3
 Both great bikes... comes down to geometry, design and brand... but because I am 204cm tall ( 6' 8" ) the Trek Session is simply too small for me. Another option is the Commencal Supreme 29 DH. But there will be a few more 29er DH bikes available soon like Norco, Kona, Banshee, Devinci, Giant, GT... we just need to be a bit patient.
  • 31 0
 I'm going to go out on a limb, and recommend V10. It looks like a session
  • 2 3
 What is the life expectancy of a carbon Nomad 3? miles/years on rocky western Colorado trails...
  • 1 1
 When is a SC Ebike coming out?
  • 4 5
 Where is the bloke from the paint shop?
  • 1 2
 Lol
  • 2 3
 what color is you hightower?
  • 2 3
 Can you make a carbon Jackal please
  • 2 3
 Will you be making a 29" V10 available for the public to purchase?
  • 2 3
 Is there any chance you will bring back touch up paint?
  • 2 2
 Good job Nic McCrea!
  • 1 2
 Where do you think the mountain biking industry is moving towards?
  • 2 0
 With 29 inch wheels i think and slacker frames
  • 1 1
 Do you 'ocean-fill'?
  • 2 4
 Why did Hans get pushed out?
  • 1 3
 If you could choose any ridingskill what would it be?
  • 7 10
 How about a carbon BMX race bike?
  • 4 2
 who would use it?
  • 4 7
 Will any of your newer bikes ever look like a session
  • 2 5
 DH training wheels
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