The Santa Cruz Vala has carved a strong reputation as a high-performance full-suspension electric bike, delivering the sought-after blend of descending prowess and uphill assistance. Made possible via the latest Gen 5 Bosch motor paired with a light-weight carbon frame construction. Santa Cruz opting to encase the smaller 600Wh battery within this frame - to further ensure the Vala's composure and adgility on the descents. Recognising that every rider has unique needs and preferences, Santa Cruz offers the Vala in a carefully considered range of models.
This detailed buyer's guide displays the key differences between the models within both the current 2026 and the previous 2025 Santa Cruz Vala line-up, focusing on variations in their specifications, componentry and pricing. To provide you with the essential information to confidently choose the Vala model that will best align with your specific riding requirements.
Santa Cruz Vala Comparison Chart
Santa Cruz Vala 2025
At the pinnacle of the Santa Cruz Vala 2025 range sits the XX AXS RSV, a no-compromise e-MTB built for ultimate enduro performance. It features a formidable FOX 38 Factory fork with 160mm of travel, paired with a FOX Float X Factory shock. Power is delivered by the cutting-edge SRAM XX Eagle AXS T-Type wireless drivetrain, while stopping duties are handled by powerful SRAM Maven Ultimate Stealth brakes. Rolling on lightweight and strong Reserve 31 DH Carbon wheels.
The XO AXS RSV delivers a similar high-end experience with a FOX 38 Factory fork (160mm), FOX Float X Factory shock, SRAM XO Eagle AXS T-Type drivetrain, SRAM Maven Silver Stealth brakes, and Reserve 31 | DH Carbon wheels.
The GX AXS RSV is the starting price point of the Reserve Vala build kits, fitted with a FOX 38 Performance Elite fork, FOX Float X Performance Elite shock, SRAM GX Eagle AXS T-Type drivetrain, SRAM Maven Bronze Stealth brakes, and Raceface ARC 30 HD wheels.
The S model presents a solid offering with a FOX 38 Performance fork, FOX Float X Performance shock, SRAM GX Eagle mechanical drivetrain, SRAM DB8 brakes, and Raceface ARC 30 HD wheels.
Finally, the R model serves as the most accessible in the lineup, featuring a RockShox Zeb Base fork, FOX Float X Performance shock, SRAM NX Eagle mechanical drivetrain, SRAM DB8 brakes, and Raceface ARC 30 HD wheels, providing a capable entry into the Vala platform.
Santa Cruz Vala 2026
For riders prioritising performance without wireless shifting, the 90 model features a FOX 38 Performance fork, FOX Float X Performance shock, SRAM 90 Eagle T-Type drivetrain, SRAM Maven Base brakes, and durable Reserve 30 HD AL wheels.
The 70 model offers another solid option with a FOX 38 Performance fork, FOX Float X Performance shock, SRAM 70 Eagle T-Type drivetrain, and SRAM DB8 brakes, also rolling on Reserve 30 HD AL wheels.
For our full ride review and first impressions of the Vala, click here.
Posted by Paul Hoyle on 2nd Apr 2025
